Feverfew: Uses, Benefits, Dosage, and Safety

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a small herb people use for headaches, migraines, and inflammation. You might find it as capsules, dried leaves, or liquid extracts. This page gives clear, practical info so you can decide if feverfew fits your routine.

What feverfew is and how people use it

Feverfew has been used traditionally for migraine prevention and for easing pain and swelling. Some people take it daily to cut down the number of migraine days. Others use it short-term for menstrual cramps or joint discomfort. It doesn't act like fast pain relievers. You usually need a few weeks to see an effect.

Look for products labeled with a standardized parthenolide amount when buying supplements. Parthenolide is the compound most linked to feverfew's effects. A consistent amount helps make results more predictable than random herbal teas.

Dosage, side effects, and safety tips

Typical doses range from 50 mg to 200 mg of feverfew extract daily, often standardized to 0.2 to 0.4% parthenolides. Some studies and expert guides use 100 mg per day as a common starting point. Start low, watch how you feel, and give it at least 4 to 8 weeks to judge benefit.

Common side effects include mild stomach upset, bloating, and mouth soreness if you chew fresh leaves. Rarely, people can have allergic reactions or skin irritation. If you notice swelling, rash, or trouble breathing, stop and seek medical help.

Feverfew can interact with blood thinners like warfarin, aspirin, and clopidogrel because it may affect bleeding risk. Also avoid feverfew before surgery. Pregnant and breastfeeding people should not use it. If you take prescription meds, check with your healthcare provider before starting feverfew.

Don't stop prescribed migraine medications without talking to your clinician. Feverfew can be used alongside some treatments, but only after a professional review of risks and benefits.

Quality varies across supplements. Pick brands with third-party testing or clear labels showing extract strength and parthenolide content. Avoid products that don't list ingredients or batch numbers.

If you plan to use feverfew for migraines, track your headaches before and during use. Note frequency, severity, and any side effects. That record makes it easier to see if the herb helps and to discuss results with your provider.

Want to learn more about feverfew or compare it to other headache options? Check product labels, read user reviews, and consult a pharmacist or doctor. Small changes in dose or timing can matter, and a healthcare pro can help tailor the approach to your needs.

How long before you notice results? Most people wait 4 to 8 weeks, but some see small changes sooner. If no improvement after two months, rethink use with your clinician. Keep a simple headache diary: date, pain score, triggers, meds taken, and sleep. That helps spot patterns and shows if the herb helps and to discuss results with your provider. If you have bleeding disorders, skip feverfew unless cleared by a doctor. Keep labels and receipts for safety and records.