Feverfew

Background:

The leaves of feverfew have been historically used for the treatment of fever and more recently migraine headaches. And as its common name suggests, it was once popular for reducing fever.

Feverfew capsules usually contain the powdered and dried leaves of the plant.

It can help migraine sufferers who have not had much success with prescription and counter medicines.

Uses:

It is used to prevent migraine headaches in people who do not want to take prescription medicines or if conventional treatments are not working.

It may help the pain, nausea and vomiting of migraines and may reduce the sensitivity to noise and light.

Feverfew is also used to relieve menstrual cramps and treat painful joints.

Feverfew does not seem to stop migraines once they have started.

Dose:

A dose of 100 mg of powdered leaf taken twice a day is normal. But it can take from four to six weeks to become truly effective.

Safety:

Side effects are minor and include indigestion, diarrhoea and dizziness. Some people develop an allergic reaction to it.

Do not stop taking feverfew abruptly if you have been using it continuously for some time as it could cause rebound migraines and anxiety.

Don't take feverfew if you are taking drugs to stop blood clotting.

Since feverfew may potentially thin the blood, be cautious if you are taking warfarin, aspirin, or other blood thinners.

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