feverfew

Uses

• migraine headache: abortive & prophylactic therapy
• fever
• menstrual problems
• stomach ache

Contraindications

• pregnancy
• lactation
• thrombocytopenia

Dosage

• 50-125 mg of dried leaf/day in divided doses
• discontinue 7 days prior to surgery

Adverse effects

• appears to be safe for up to 4 months (no long-term studies)
• withdrawal may cause an increase in the frequency & severity of headache
• chewing* feverfew leaves can cause:
  • mouth ulcers
  • tongue & oral mucosa inflammation
  • swelling of the lips
  • loss of taste
• allergy
• platelet inhibition, bleeding
• GI upset

* feverfew in capsule may avoid these adverse effects

Drug interactions

• anticoagulants
• antiplatelet agents including NSAIDs

Mechanism of action

• multiple active constituents, including parthenolide
• may inhibit platelet aggregation & serotonin release from platelets & leukocytes
• may inhibit serum proteases
• may inhibit formation of leukotrienes
• may inhibit phospholipase & prostaglandin synthesis

More general terms

• pharmaceutical herb; medicinal herb; herbal supplement

Component of

• Migrelief