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Feverfew
(Tanacetum parthenium)
DESCRIPTION
Feverfew is a member of the sunflower family and derives its
name from the word febrifuge, used to signify its tonic and
fever-dispelling properties. Feverfew is traditionally used
to treat Pain and Inflammation.
HERBAL USES
Feverfew is used in the
management of Migraine, Tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo
(dizziness), Arthritis, fever, menstrual disorders, difficulty
during labour, stomach ache, Toothache and insect bites.
SUGGESTED INTAKES
Part of the plant used:
LEAF.
Herb powder, 50-200mg daily.
SUPPLEMENTAL USES
Anti-inflammatory:
Feverfew extracts can reduce swelling and Inflammation by
inhibiting various body substances that are responsible for
inflammation - such as prostaglandin, leukotriene and thromboxane.
Feverfew also inhibits the release of an enzyme called "phospholipase
A2", involved in the inflammatory response (1-3).
Anti-Histamine:
Feverfew extracts can inhibit the release of histamine in
allergic-type reactions. Studies showed that histamine release
was inhibited more the higher the intake of feverfew extract
(4).
Antimicrobial:
Research shows that feverfew extracts are antimicrobial to
certain bacteria, yeasts and filamentous fungi (5).
Migraine:
Adults who have experienced Migraine on a regular basis may
choose to supplement with feverfew. Studies using feverfew
to the equivalent of 2.19µg parthenolide reported less
migraine attacks (6). It can also be effective when used at
the onset of a migraine attack. However, because migraine-type
headaches may be indicators of serious diseases, medical consultation
is strongly recommended for those who experience migraine
headaches without previous history or who experience a sudden
change in pattern of Headaches.
Granule secretion:
Studies have shown that development of migraine and Arthritis
involves the secretion of granules from blood platelets (involved
in blood clotting) and white blood cells. Feverfew inhibits
this granule secretion and, therefore, helps to ease migraine
(7).
Arthritis:
Feverfew may be chosen by people with joint Inflammation (Arthritis)
(7,8) although results show that feverfew’s anti-inflammatory
properties may be less pronounced than certain non-steroidal
drugs. Further scientific evidence is needed to confirm its
effectiveness.
SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS
Studies involving blood
analysis of long-term (greater than 1 year) feverfew users
showed no changes compared to control groups.
No significant side-effects
are reported for feverfew. The following reactions have been
noted for feverfew; Mouth Ulcers, dry and sore tongue, swollen
lips and mouth with loss of taste, unpleasant and bitter taste,
abdominal Pain and indigestion, Diarrhoea, flatulence, nausea
and Vomiting, hypersensitivity and allergic reactions. The
onset of side effects with feverfew varies and symptoms may
take up to 2 months to appear.
A "Post-Feverfew Syndrome"
has been noted with symptoms including Nervousness, tension
Headaches, Insomnia stiffness/Pain in joints and tiredness.
Pregnant and lactating women
should consult with a qualified health professional before
taking feverfew.
Feverfew is not recommended
for use by children.
INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS
Feverfew is not recommended
for people who are allergic or hypersensitive to chamomile,
ragweed and yarrow.
Feverfew should not be taken
by those who develop a Rash on contact with the herb.
Individuals with rheumatic
conditions should consult with a qualified health professional
before using feverfew.
REFERENCES
1. Makheja AM, Bailey
JM. The active principle in feverfew. The Lancet, ii:1054,
1981.
2. Capasso F. The effect of an aqueous extract of Tanacetum
parthenium L on arachidonic acid metabolism by rat peritoneal
leucocytes. Pharm Pharmacol, 38:71-72, 1986.
3. Makheja AM, Bailey JM. A platelet phospholipase inhibitor
from the medicinal herb feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). Prostaglandins
Leukot Med, 8:653-660, 1982.
4. Heptinstall S et al. Extracts of feverfew may inhibit platelet
behaviour via neutralization of sulphydryl groups. J Pharm
Pharmacol, 39:466-470, 1987.
5. Blakeman JP, Atkinson P. Antimicrobial properties and possible
role in host-pathogen interactions of parthenolide, a sesquiterpene
lactone isolated from glands of Chrysanthemum parthenium.
Physiol Plant Pathol, 15:183-192, 1979.
6. Murphy JJ et al. Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled
trial of feverfew in migraine prevention. The Lancet, ii:189-192,
1988.
7. Heptinstall S et al. Extracts of feverfew inhibits granule
secretion in blood platelets and polymorphonuclear leucocytes.
The Lancet, i:1071-1073, 1985.
8. Pattrick M et al. Feverfew in rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind
placebo controlled study. Ann Rheum Dis ,48:547-549, 1989.
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