Feverfew, also commonly known as bachelor's buttons, is a plant from the composite family. Scientific names include Tanacetum parthenium and Chrysanthemum parthenium. Feverfew is originally a native plant of the Balkan Mountain region, but it now can be found throughout Europe, Australia, North America and South America. In various methods preparations of feverfew leaf, it has been used for many centuries as a herbal remedy for many conditions, including fevers, headaches, stomach aches, toothaches, insect bites, infertility, menstrual difficulties and during childbirth to assist in labor. Use in modern times has been for migraine headaches and rheumatoid arthritis.http://nccam.nih.gov/health/feverfew/ http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/feverfew-000243.htm http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/migraine-headache/DS00120/DSECTION=alternative-medicine

Limited research has been done on the effectiveness of feverfew for its historical usages. Studies for use with migraine headaches have shown that it does have a positive effect, but it may be effective on migraines that are not severe. The active constituent in feverfew is believed to be parthenolide. Its activity causes the relief of spasms in smooth muscle which occur during the constriction of blood vessels in the brain during migraine occurrence. Parthenolide is also anti-inflammatory and studies indicates that it can prevent cancer cell growth. The one study that has been conducted on rheumatoid arthritis did not indicate an effect. Ingestion, normally from dried leaf preparations, does not seem to be correlated with any serious side effects.

Observed side effects may include loss of taste, canker sores, irritation of the lips and tongue and swelling. Some people may be allergic. It is advised that pregnant women not use feverfew because it may cause uterus contractions, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature birth.

Recommended adult dosages for stopping and preventing migraines are 100 - 300 mg, using a preparation that is standardized to contain 0.2 - 0.4% parthenolides. This may be taken up to 4 times a day. For carbon dioxide extracted supplement, dosages of 6.25 mg can be taken 3 times a day, not exceeding 16 weeks. For inflammation, tinctures preparations are used. Follow label recommendations for this use. http://nccam.nih.gov/health/feverfew/ http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/feverfew-000243.htm http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/migraine-headache/DS00120/DSECTION=alternative-medicine

Some find that the drinking of feverfew tea once a day is helpful for the prevention of migraines. http://parents.berkeley.edu/advice/health/migraines.html

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