Feverfew

Feverfew

Tanacetum parthenium

Also known as: Bachelor's Buttons, Featherfew, Featherfoil, Febrifuge Plant, Wild Chamomile

Historical Background

Feverfew has an impressive track record in traditional wellness practices. Both the British Medical Journal and the Harvard Medical School Health Letter have recognized the traditional use of feverfew for supporting head comfort. Unlike approaches that simply address discomfort, feverfew has been traditionally used to support the underlying causes of head tension.

Traditional Uses

Head Comfort and Wellness: Feverfew is most recognized for supporting head comfort and ease. Clinical studies have shown that regular use of feverfew may support comfortable head sensations and reduce frequency of discomfort episodes. It may work more gently than some common approaches.

The combination of beneficial compounds in the feverfew plant brings effective support. It works by supporting healthy levels of certain substances in the body, including serotonin and prostaglandins, both involved in head comfort. By supporting balance of these compounds and supporting healthy histamine levels, the herb helps maintain comfort.

Research shows that both the frequency and intensity of head discomfort were reduced among study participants who took feverfew daily as a regular wellness practice. However, feverfew is traditionally used as ongoing support rather than for acute episodes. Regular use provides the best support.

Women's Monthly Comfort: Monthly cramping occurs when the uterine lining produces prostaglandin, a compound that can affect comfort. Because feverfew helps support healthy prostaglandin balance, it may support monthly comfort. While more research is needed, traditional use suggests starting feverfew a day before anticipated monthly discomfort may be supportive.

Joint and Muscle Comfort: Feverfew has been traditionally used for supporting comfortable joints and muscles. Research indicates that compounds in feverfew may support the body's healthy response to various comfort needs. It supports healthy inflammatory response, which is the body's natural reaction to various situations.

Compounds in feverfew are thought to support healthy platelet function and prostaglandin production. All of these effects could help support overall comfort, ease, and wellness.

Additional Traditional Benefits:

  • Supports healthy blood pressure already within normal range
  • Promotes digestive comfort
  • Supports renewed sense of wellbeing
  • May support healthy appetite
  • Supports comfortable digestion and kidney function
  • May ease occasional dizziness and ear comfort
  • Supports comfortable monthly cycles

Traditional extracts have been used to support respiratory comfort, skin wellness, and overall vitality.

Active Constituents

Feverfew contains parthenolide and other sesquiterpene lactones, which contribute to its wellness-supporting properties. These compounds work together to support the body's natural comfort and balance.

Properties

Supports head comfort, supports healthy inflammatory response, carminative (digestive support), supports monthly comfort, gentle wellness support, antipyretic (supports healthy temperature), aperient, bitter tonic.

How to Use

As a Supplement: Feverfew capsules or tablets are the most common and convenient form. Follow product label instructions. Regular daily use provides best support.

 

Available Forms: Capsules, Powder.

Key Traditional Applications

Feverfew has been traditionally used to support:

  • Head comfort and ease
  • Reduced frequency of head discomfort episodes
  • Monthly menstrual comfort
  • Joint and muscle ease
  • Healthy inflammatory response
  • Comfortable digestion
  • Healthy blood pressure (already within normal range)
  • Kidney function
  • Occasional dizziness and ear comfort
  • Respiratory comfort
  • Skin wellness
  • Overall comfort and wellbeing

Important Notes

Regular Use Required: Feverfew works best when taken regularly as ongoing support, not just during acute episodes. It may take several weeks of consistent use to experience full benefits.

Pregnancy and Nursing: Feverfew should not be used during pregnancy as it may affect uterine function. Nursing mothers should also avoid use.

Mouth Irritation: Fresh feverfew leaves can cause mouth sores or irritation in some people. Capsules avoid this issue.

Blood Thinning: Feverfew may have mild effects on platelet function. Those taking blood-thinning medications should consult with a healthcare practitioner.

Discontinuation: Some people experience temporary discomfort when stopping feverfew after long-term use. Gradual reduction may be helpful.

Feverfew is generally well-tolerated when used appropriately. Best results come from consistent, regular use under professional guidance.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.