Feverfew  for migraine prevention became very popular in England as an alternative remedy for migraine headaches. There have been many controlled studies conducted which suggest that taking feverfew in fresh leaves or dried capsules can lower the frequency of migraine headaches.

Historically, it has always been considered as a medicinal herb, used for many years in European folk medicine. for headaches, arthritis and as its name suggests fevers.  Feverfew for migraine prevention is the area that this herb is becoming better known for.

 Feverfew  has been scientifically evaluated.  It contains a range of compounds known as sequiterpene lactones.  The main compound  is parthenolide, and it is this ingredient that helps migraine sufferers.  Although scientists do not all agree on the cause of migraines, they believe that there is an inflammatory process which causes the blood vessels in the head to dilate abnormally causing the migraine. Simply put, that specific compound in feverfew is able to block a migraine from developing


Feverfew is easy to grow in the United States and Europe, because it is a relative of the sunflower family. Grows (12-24 “or so) tall shrubs  which shows many  small white flowers, reminiscent of small daisies. Once planted, it will spread by runners and self seeding. It appears  in the spring, and continue to grow and bloom all summer if flowers are pinched back.

People use a few leaves of this herb daily for medicinal purposes. . You can try putting it in a salad with other fresh herbs. Another strategy is to sprinkle the chopped leaves of feverfew in marinara sauce. However you need to be extremely careful, only use a few leaves at a time, because people have reported mouth ulcers with increased used.  The freeze dried leaves in capsules or liquid extract is considered a better option.

In summary, the potential benefits of feverfew as an important herbal remedy is quite remarkable.  Therefore care should be taken before ingesting.  This herb can interfere with some prescription and non prescription medications.  It can make the blood thinner. Feverfew for migraine prevention suggests that a standardized preparation could become an alternative to a pharmaceutical drug.  What do you think?