Used as an infusion, decoction, extract and tincture.

Feverfew is recommended in modern European herbal medicine, as in ancient Greek herbal medicine, as a preventative of migraine headaches. It an effective anti-inflammatory, vasodilator and emmenagogue.

It contains a range of compounds known as sesquiterpene lactones, 85% of which are a compound called parthenolide. Parthenolide helps prevent excessive clumping of platelets and inhibits the release of certain chemicals, including serotonin and some inflammatory mediators.

According to several double blind studies with migraine patients, feverfew reduces the severity, duration, and frequency of migraine headaches.

The same studies also report beneficial side effects of regular use, such as relief from depression and arthritic pain due to inflammation. Painful and sluggish menstrual flow is also relieved by Feverfew.

Grieve's classic 'A Modern Herbal': 'As a stimulant it is useful as an emmenagogue. Is also employed in hysterical complaints, nervousness and lowness of spirits, and is a general tonic. The cold infusion is made from 1 oz. of the herb to a pint of boiling water, allowed to cool, and taken frequently in doses of half a teacupful. A decoction with sugar or honey is said to be good for coughs, wheezing and difficult breathing.'

King's 1898 Dispensatory: 'Tonic, carminative, emmenagogue, vermifuge, and stimulant. This agent is one of the pleasantest of the tonics, influencing the whole intestinal tract, increasing the appetite, improving digestion, and promoting secretion, besides having a decided action upon the renal and cutaneous functions.'

'The warm infusion is an excellent remedy in recent colds, flatulency, worms, atonic dyspepsia, irregular menstruation, nervous debility, hysteria, suppression of the urine, and in some febrile diseases.'

'In hysteria or flatulency, 1 teaspoonful of the compound spirits of lavender forms a valuable addition to the dose of the infusion, which is from 2 to 4 fluid ounces. The cold infusion or extract makes a valuable tonic. The leaves in poultice are an excellent local application in severe pain or swelling of the bowels, etc.'

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Clinical Trials

Meta-analysis of 5 clinical studies indicate feverfew is better than placebo but clinical effectiveness has not been established beyond reasonable doubt Vogler 1998

A randomized, blinded trial with 72 patients found a reduction in number and severity of migraines while duration was unchanged. There were no serious side effects Murphy 1988

9 patients taking placebo had more frequent and severe migraine symptoms than the 8 taking freeze dried feverfew leaf powder in a double blind study Johnson 1985