Feverfew Herb

Herb Class/Action
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antispasmodic
• Bitter tonic
• Vasodilator
• Nervine
• Emmenagogue

Parts Used
• Aerial parts (leaves and flowers), fresh or dried

Flavors
• Bitter
• Slightly pungent

Energetics
• Cooling
• Drying

Traditional Benefits
Feverfew has been revered since ancient times as a woman’s herb and headache remedy. In traditional Western herbalism, it was used to reduce fevers (hence the name), soothe menstrual discomfort, relieve arthritis, and calm nervous tension. It was known in Roman and Greek medicine as parthenion, and Nicholas Culpeper praised it for “expelling cold humors from the brain.” It was also used for melancholy and vertigo. Today, feverfew is celebrated for its specific affinity toward migraine prevention and relief, making it a modern-day ally for chronic headache sufferers and those with inflammatory conditions.

A Natural Allergy Ally
Due to its ability to calm inflammation and inhibit histamine release, feverfew may offer relief from sinus-related headaches, eye pressure, and stress-induced allergic responses. It gently modulates immune overreaction without sedating the system.

A Herb for Seasonal Support
Feverfew is especially useful during spring and fall when pollen, hormonal shifts, and weather fluctuations often trigger migraines or tension headaches. Its anti-inflammatory, vasodilating actions help ease the constricted blood flow associated with these headaches and seasonal mood shifts.

How It Works
Feverfew’s therapeutic power lies primarily in its compound parthenolide, which helps inhibit serotonin release from blood platelets, reduce the dilation of blood vessels, and decrease prostaglandin synthesis—key triggers in migraine pathology. Parthenolide also inhibits the activation of NF-kB (a protein complex involved in chronic inflammation), which may explain its benefits in arthritis and autoimmune conditions. Unlike conventional painkillers, feverfew works best when taken regularly as a preventative herb rather than acutely. It gently tones the vascular and nervous systems over time.

Best Ways to Use It
Tinctures/Extracts: 1–2 mL of tincture (1:5 in 40% alcohol) once or twice daily for migraine prevention or menstrual pain.
Herbal Teas: 1 tsp dried leaf per cup, steeped for 10 minutes; drink once daily. The tea is very bitter and often combined with mint or lemon balm.
Capsules: Standardized extracts (usually 0.2–0.4% parthenolide) are available; often taken daily for several weeks to reduce migraine frequency.
Topical Applications: Though rare, feverfew is sometimes included in creams for localized nerve pain or inflammation.

Fun Fact
Legend has it that feverfew was used in ancient times to save workers who fell from the Parthenon during its construction in Athens—hence the name parthenium. It’s also known as “medieval aspirin” and was planted in monastery gardens as a go-to remedy for headaches and “disturbed spirits.”

A Herb for Modern Use
Feverfew continues to be a go-to herbal ally for individuals suffering from migraines, hormonal headaches, or inflammatory conditions like arthritis and PMS. It supports nervous system regulation, vascular tone, and immune modulation without the side effects of over-the-counter painkillers. Its cumulative benefits shine with consistent use. However, it’s best avoided during pregnancy due to its emmenagogue effects and should be used with caution by those allergic to daisies or ragweed (Asteraceae family). In today’s stress-ridden, screen-heavy world, feverfew offers clarity, calm, and relief from the tension that builds in both mind and body.