308 /FEVERFEW PDR FOR HERBAL MEDICINESSkin: There are reports of allergic dermatitis on exposure to
the leaves and petals of Feverfew (Schmidt, 1986). Two
elderly individuals suffering from acute recurrent photoder-
matitis were shown to be allergic to Feverfew (Mensing,
1985). Eczema was reported in greenhouse workers exposed
to various members of the Compositae family, including
Feverfew (Paulsen, 1998). A recent investigation does not
support the theory of airborne sesquiterpine lactone-contain-
ing plant parts, or of direct release of sesquiterpene lactones
from living plants as the only explanations for airborne
Compositae dermatitis (Christensen, 1999).Musculoskeletal: Feverfew contains sesquiterpenes (parthe-
nolide and cynaropicrin), which have been shown to induce
toxic and irreversible inhibition of smooth muscle contractil-
ity when there are high concentrations in the tissue (Hay,
1994).Drug Interactions: Although reports are sketchy, and most
involve animal subjects and in vitro research, there is a
strong possibility that Feverfew may interact with thrombo-
lytics, anticoagulants and platelet aggregation. The mecha-
nism of action is believed to be inhibition of arachidonic
acid, which is a precursor for prostaglandins that are
involved in the clotting mechanism.DOSAGE
Mode of Administration: Feverfew preparations are used
both internally and externally.How Supplied:
Capsules — 80 mg, 380 mg, 384 mg, 400 mg, 500 mg, 1000
mgTablets — 12mg (standardized to 600 meg sesuiterpine
lactone content)Preparation: To make an infusion, use 2 teaspoonfuls of the
drug per cup, allow to draw for 15 minutes. To make a
strong infusion, double the amount and allow to draw for 25
minutes.Daily Dosage:
Capsules — 200 to 250 mg daily for the treatment of
migraines; the usual standardization level is 0.2% partheno-
lide content (Brown, 1996). Freshly dried powdered Fever-
few of 25 mg is approximately equal to 0.1 mg of
sesquiterpine lactones (SL) (Mervyn,1986).Fresh leaf — 1 to 3 leaves (25 to 75 mg) once or twice daily
has been recommended (Johnson et al, 1985; O'Hara, 1998).Unproven uses — 3 cups of the infusion are taken per day.
The stronger infusions are used for washes.
Storage: Store the herb in sealed containers.
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