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Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)
A traditional migraine-prevention herb with mixed, inconsistent trial evidence — some older RCTs were positive, but the pivotal standardized-extract trial missed its primary endpoint.
What the evidence says
Feverfew doesn't have enough studies with structured effect-size data yet to pool a verdict. Browse the studies below for individual findings.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 1985–2025 with a typical study size of 49 participants.
Based on 20 studies · 1 meta-analysis · 8 RCTs · 740 total participants
Confidence
Moderate confidenceBy outcome
Several older RCTs and systematic reviews favored feverfew for migraine prophylaxis, but the best-designed standardized-extract trial missed its primary endpoint and the current Cochrane review finds only low-quality positive evidence, landing it at Moderate.
No trials currently enrolling · 3 completed on ClinicalTrials.gov
Registered trials show research momentum for Feverfew, not proof of effect — a registration is a plan, and posted results are sponsor-reported, not peer-reviewed. They are never counted toward the evidence rating above.
Browse these trials on ClinicalTrials.govClinicalTrials.gov · as of Oct 2026
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a daisy-family herb traditionally used to prevent migraines. Its sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide is thought to reduce platelet serotonin release and inflammatory mediators involved in migraine.
The clinical evidence is genuinely mixed and inconsistent: several small older randomized trials were positive, but Cochrane reviews concluded efficacy is not established beyond reasonable doubt, largely because trials used variable, non-standardized preparations.
Notably, the best-designed trial of a standardized stable CO2 extract (MIG-99) FAILED its primary endpoint in the overall population, showing benefit only in a predefined subgroup of frequent-attack patients. It is used for prophylaxis (reducing attack frequency), not for aborting an acute migraine.
Parthenolide inhibits platelet serotonin release implicated in the neurovascular changes of migraine.
Inhibits NF-κB and pro-inflammatory mediators (prostaglandins, cytokines).
May reduce abnormal vascular reactivity associated with migraine attacks.
Avoid — may stimulate uterine contractions.
Avoid — cross-reactive allergy risk (Asteraceae family).
Use only with medical supervision — possible additive bleeding risk.
May inhibit platelet aggregation — possible additive bleeding risk.
Overlapping anti-inflammatory/antiplatelet effects. A grade for this interaction is held for clinical review and has not been validated, so no severity is given. The precaution still applies: ask a pharmacist about the exact supplement and medicine. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines based on this notice.
Tip: Use capsules/extract instead of raw leaf
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Taper rather than stopping suddenly
Feverfew has an evidence score of 5/10 — moderate evidence based on 21 indexed studies. A traditional migraine-prevention herb with mixed, inconsistent trial evidence — some older RCTs were positive, but the pivotal standardized-extract trial missed its primary endpoint. Representative study: PMID 22435410.
The commonly studied dose of Feverfew is 18.75-56.25 mg daily of a standardized CO2 extract (the cited trial gave 6.24, 18.75 or 56.25 mg a day in three doses, found no effect overall, and only a subgroup on 18.75 mg a day had fewer attacks). Leaf and extract products are labelled at 100-300 mg daily, standardized to at least 0.2-0.7% parthenolide, above the highest dose in the cited trial. Individual needs vary — start at the lower end of the range and adjust based on how you respond.
The best time to take Feverfew is with meals. Taking it with food is preferred. Taken daily with food for migraine prophylaxis; consistent daily use is required for the preventive effect.
Feverfew should be used with caution — talk to a healthcare provider before taking it. Reported side effects include post-feverfew rebound (on abrupt stop), mouth ulcers (chewed leaf), GI upset. How often they occur is not established for all of them. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions); Allergy to Asteraceae/Compositae plants (ragweed, chamomile, daisies); Use with anticoagulants without supervision.
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Reviewed by Dr. Baher Al Hakim · Last reviewed June 2026 · evidence from 20 studies · how we score · editorial policy
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.