SO DYK
HEADACHE & MIGRAINE

Feverfew

Tanacetum parthenium

also known as Featherfew, Bachelor's button

Moderate (migraine prevention)
Feverfew — Köhler 1887 botanical illustration

A small daisy-family herb with a long European reputation for headaches. Modern research focuses on migraine prevention — the evidence is real but specific to consistent daily use, not as a rescue remedy.

  • May reduce the frequency of migraine attacks when taken daily over weeks to months
  • May ease the severity of attacks that do occur
  • Anti-inflammatory action from compounds in the leaf
  • Long traditional use for fever, joint discomfort, and menstrual cramps
  • Best results come from standardized extracts taken consistently — not occasional use

Active in Parthenolide, Sesquiterpene lactones, Flavonoids.

Stopping suddenly after long-term use can trigger rebound headaches, anxiety, and trouble sleeping — taper off gradually
Chewing fresh leaves can cause mouth ulcers — capsules avoid this
Possible cross-reactivity with ragweed and other daisy-family allergies
Use caution with blood thinners
Skip during pregnancy — can stimulate the uterus
Stop two weeks before surgery