Feverfew For Migraines?

Feverfew is a plant originally found in the southern parts of Europe and the region of the Caucasus. For hundreds of years it has been recognized as an alternative medicine. There are many other names for feverfew and that include flirtwort, wild quinine, nosebleed, featherfoil and wild chamomile.

The parthenolide found in feverfew gives relief to muscle cramps and spasms. Feverfew is used by herbalists to treat and prevent migraines. It has been a popular remedy for migraine headaches. Feverfew is also effective for many other health problems.

Feverfew relaxes and soothes the muscles and is often used to treat muscle cramps. It proves to be very beneficial for the upper back muscles. Feverfew helps to alleviate premenstrual headaches, arthritis, headache pain, menstrual cramping and rheumatic pain.

Feverfew is most useful in curbing seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma and sinus attacks. It is often used to help with digestive complaints such as a poor appetite and also a tonic for the liver. From clinical studies feverfew is also proven to be able to improve skin tone be reducing any skin redness or blotchiness.

You can purchase feverfew as tablets, capsules, tea or tincture. The parthenolide in the tablet or capsule is usually around 205 mcg. It is generally believed that feverfew is best taken as a tea in fresh form. You would not feel the effect until after about four to six weeks. The standard dosage is 100 to 300 mg three to four times on a daily basis. Feverfew does not normally cause any side effects. It is not advisable for young children, pregnant and nursing women to take feverfew. When the recommended dosages are adhered to it is safe. If there are any side effects they are usually mild no more than an upset stomach or nervousness.

With the increase in medical research and popularity of feverfew its medicinal values are becoming more acceptable. Feverfew is not a quick fix for migraines. It is best used to prevent recurring migraines over long period. However, studies by scientists at the University of Rochester Medical Center have found that feverfew extract can be used effectively to treat a type of leukemia in humans.