Feverfew: Benefits, Dosage, Contraindications

Anti-inflammatory

Feverfew exhibits anti-inflammatory properties explained by several mechanisms. First, it may reduce the activity of certain enzymes and substances involved in inflammation, such as proteases and leukotrienes. Then, feverfew appears to prevent the formation of prostaglandins, which are important in the inflammatory process. It works by blocking an enzyme, phospholipase, which stops the release of a key molecule in the creation of these prostaglandins. Laboratory research has shown that certain components of feverfew, such as parthenolide, limit the production of one of these prostaglandins, PGE2. Parthenolide, in particular, targets a specific enzyme linked to inflammation, COX-2, as well as various pro-inflammatory molecules. Animal studies have also revealed that feverfew extracts have anti-inflammatory effects and reduce pain sensitivity without involving opioid receptors. These effects could be due to an influence on certain molecules present in vascular cells. Although parthenolide is considered an active anti-inflammatory constituent, laboratory research suggests that feverfew deficient in parthenolide also has anti-inflammatory effects, such as inhibiting enzymes, cytokines, and pro-inflammatory prostaglandins.

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Neurological

Feverfew is recognized for its potential benefits against migraines. It was once believed that parthenolide, one of its components, was essential for combating migraines and that a concentration of at least 0.2% was necessary. However, a study with an extract containing 0.35% parthenolide did not confirm its effectiveness, suggesting that other components may be necessary. The mechanisms of action of feverfew in preventing migraines are not fully understood. The plant appears to influence certain enzymes and substances related to inflammation, such as proteases and leukotrienes, and block the production of prostaglandins, involved in inflammation and pain. Preliminary research indicates that feverfew extracts could prevent the contraction of vascular muscles, a potentially beneficial effect for relieving migraines. Chrysanthemyl acetate, another substance present in the plant, is also suggested as an active component, having analgesic properties and possibly inhibiting prostaglandin formation. Furthermore, feverfew contains melatonin, which may contribute to its pharmacological effects. It should be noted that fresh or dried leaves of the plant contain more melatonin than commercially prepared standardized tablets.

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Anticancer

Lab research has shown that feverfew and its components, particularly parthenolide, hold promising effects in fighting cancer. These works suggest feverfew could slow the growth of cancer cells and even trigger their self-destruction, known as apoptosis. Parthenolide, a key element of feverfew, seems to interfere with the life cycle of cancer cells, arresting them or pushing them towards differentiation, then triggering their programmed death. This compound has the potential to induce apoptosis in several types of cancer cells while being non-toxic to normal cells. It also acts on certain transcription factors in cells, such as the Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT) proteins, which are involved in cell growth, differentiation, and death. Parthenolide reduces the expression of genes that prevent apoptosis, although this action appears specific to cancer cells. Additionally, parthenolide has a different effect on cancer cells compared to normal cells concerning reactive oxygen species (ROS). In cancer cells, it increases ROS levels, thus promoting their death. Conversely, in non-cancerous cells, it acts as an antioxidant, reducing ROS levels. Finally, more recent research has revealed parthenolide can trigger cancer cell apoptosis by causing their mitochondria to malfunction. This mechanism has shown it can significantly slow tumor growth and angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels to feed the tumor, in cancer models. This proapoptotic action appears linked to the activation of a key protein, p53, and an increase in ROS production.

Antihistamine

Feverfew is traditionally used for allergies. In laboratory research on rat peritoneal mast cells, feverfew extract demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of histamine release.

Antispasmodic

Results from several in vitro studies generally indicate that feverfew reduces vascular smooth muscle spasm. This inhibition is dose and time-dependent, attributed to the binding of the alpha-methylene butyrolactone function to the thiol groups of proteins.

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