Feverfew: Uses, Benefits, Dosage & Safety
Last updated: June 2026 · Reviewed by the FactoWiki Editorial Team for clarity and source accuracy
Quick summary
Feverfew is a traditional herb best known for migraine prevention. The evidence is mixed but it remains one of the better-studied botanicals for headache.
What is Feverfew?
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a flowering plant in the daisy family used traditionally for fevers, headaches and inflammation. Its leaves contain parthenolide, thought to be a key active compound.
What Feverfew is commonly used for
In supplements, Feverfew is most often included for brain & memory, nerve health support. It is used as nutritional support, not as a treatment for any medical condition — the distinction matters, because the claims on a sales page are often stronger than the evidence allows.
How Feverfew works
Parthenolide and related compounds appear to reduce the release of inflammatory and vessel-constricting substances (such as serotonin from platelets), which may blunt the cascade that triggers migraine.
What the evidence says
Here's an honest snapshot of what published research suggests about Feverfew — including where the evidence is limited.
- Feverfew has several randomised trials for migraine prevention with mixed results; some show a modest reduction in attack frequency, while others find no clear effect. Standardised extracts are more reliable than raw leaf.
- Study quality and doses vary, and a result seen in research doesn't guarantee the same for any individual — use the sources below to check the current evidence on Feverfew rather than relying on marketing claims.
Typical dosage used in studies
Migraine studies have used standardised extracts providing roughly 100–300 mg/day or a defined parthenolide content. Effects, if any, build over weeks. This is general information from research, not a personal recommendation or a dosing instruction.
Side effects and safety
Feverfew can cause mouth ulcers when chewed raw and stomach upset; stopping suddenly after long use may trigger rebound headaches. People allergic to daisies/ragweed and those who are pregnant should avoid it, and it may affect bleeding. As with any supplement, it's sensible to introduce Feverfew on its own, use a trusted brand, and stop if you notice any reaction.
Medication interactions and who should avoid Feverfew
Medication & safety check
Herbs interact with prescription medicines more often than people expect — affecting drug levels, bleeding, blood pressure, blood sugar or sedation — and Feverfew is no exception. If you take any regular medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or manage a health condition, confirm Feverfew is appropriate for you before starting.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. If you take any medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition, confirm it's safe to use Feverfew with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Sources & further reading
For authoritative background and the current research base on Feverfew, consult:
- PubMed — search the research on Feverfew
- NCCIH — Herbs at a Glance
- MedlinePlus — herbs & supplements
- MedlinePlus — drugs, herbs & supplements
Frequently asked questions
Does Feverfew actually work?
Feverfew has several randomised trials for migraine prevention with mixed results; some show a modest reduction in attack frequency, while others find no clear effect. Standardised extracts are more reliable than raw leaf. As with most supplements, results vary between people and the marketing is often stronger than the evidence — so it's worth checking the research before relying on it.
Is Feverfew safe to take?
For most healthy adults at normal doses it's generally well tolerated, but there are real cautions. Feverfew can cause mouth ulcers when chewed raw and stomach upset; stopping suddenly after long use may trigger rebound headaches. People allergic to daisies/ragweed and those who are pregnant should avoid it, and it may affect bleeding. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition, check with a doctor or pharmacist first.
What is Feverfew used for?
In supplements, Feverfew is mainly included for brain & memory, nerve health support — as nutritional support, not as a treatment for any medical condition.
Where you'll find Feverfew
On FactoWiki, Feverfew is the kind of ingredient you'll see discussed in these supplement categories. Each category guide breaks down what the evidence does and doesn't support.
Related ingredients to explore
Ingredients often studied or formulated alongside Feverfew — useful for understanding the full picture of a formula.