Herbal Remedy For Migraine
Feverfew is A Remedy For
- Migraine
Several clinical trials have shown that Feverfew reduces the frequency and severity of migraine headaches when taken in small amounts daily. It has also been used for arthritis, allergies, cramps, indigestion, postnatal bleeding, painful menstruation, other gynecological disorders, and intestinal parasites, but its effectiveness for these ailments has never been verified. Indeed, when tested on a group of arthritis patients, it produced no significant improvement in their condition.
In folk medicine, Feverfew is regarded as a general tonic, tranquilizer, and “blood purifier.” As a wash or rinse, it is used to prevent infection and reduce swelling from wounds and tooth extraction.
What Is Feverfew; Why Feverfew Works
Feverfew is a strongly aromatic perennial that originated in southeastern Europe and is now found all over Europe, Australia, and North America. Externally, it is also used as an insecticide and was formerly found in insect powders. Only the leaf is used medicinally.
Feverfew contains an active ingredient called parthenolide that seems to affect the release of serotonin–an important chemical messenger in the brain–while reducing the level of certain chemicals associated with inflammation, including histamines and prostaglandins. Another ingredient in the herb combats spasms. Feverfew’s migraine-preventing effect takes 4 to 6 weeks to appear.
Avoid Feverfew If…
Do not use Feverfew during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Not for use in children under 2.
Special Cautions
Skin reactions due to contact with the herb are a possibility. Other potential side effects include edginess and upset stomach, although customary doses rarely cause any problem.
Side effects may actually be at their greatest when you stop taking Feverfew. People who abruptly discontinue this herb stand a 1 in 10 chance of developing a post-Feverfew syndrome. Possible symptoms include rebound headaches, insomnia, muscle stiffness, joint pain, fatigue, nervousness, and tension.
Possible Feverfew Interactions
Based on laboratory studies, researchers suspect that Feverfew may interact with clot-busting drugs and other blood-thinners.
Special Information If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Remember that use of Feverfew during pregnancy is not recommended.
How To Prepare Feverfew
Feverfew leaf is available in powder form, and in tablets and capsules. When purchasing pills, look for products containing 0.2 percent parthenolide.
To make a tea, combine 2 teaspoonfuls of Feverfew powder with 1 cup of water and steep for 15 minutes. To make a stronger solution for use as a wash or mouthwash, double the amount of Feverfew and steep for 25 minutes.
Typical Feverfew Dosage
To help prevent migraines, the usual dose is 200 to 250 milligrams daily in capsule form. Since parthenolide content may vary, follow the manufacturer’s instructions whenever available.
Store in a sealed container.
Overdosage
There is no information available.
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