Why should I use herbal products?

The decision to use native herbs to improve your health is, as with all health decisions, a personal one. There are, however, many good reasons to consider herbal products to  complement your own health care methods. One of the best reason, however, may be the fact that herbs and herbal products, continue to provide real health benefits while maintaining a remarkable safety profile. Readily available natural substances were the first medicines used by humans. Primitive and ancient civilizations as well as contemporary cultures throughout the world have always relied on herbs to provide the benefits that have been observed with their use. In fact, the World Health Organization has estimated that 80 percent of the world's population continues to use traditional therapies, a major part of which are derived from plants, as their primary health care tools.(3) In our own time and culture, most herbs are available in the form of "herbal supplements."(4) These products are found in the form of teas, tablets, capsules, liquid extracts, and others. We now have ready access to products that bring the herbal traditions from all over the world in a variety of convenient forms. In addition, scientific inquiries continue to develop our knowledge of the benefits of plants, and often validate the observations made over the past centuries.

• Picture of Astragalus
• What Astragalus Is Used For
  • Herbal remedy to boost immune system. Historically, astragalus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, usually in combination with other herbs, to support and enhance the immune system. It is still widely used in China for chronic hepatitis and as an adjunctive therapy in cancer.
  • It is a very useful protector of adrenal cortical function and regulates blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
  • It is also used to prevent and treat common colds and upper respiratory infections.
  • Astragalus has also been used for heart disease.
  • Recent research confirms the positive effect of Astragalus on immune functioning and its ability to help the body fight against disease.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: AdrenoBoost Effective natural remedy for improving adrenal function.
• How Astragalus Is Used
  • The root of the astragalus plant is typically used in soups, teas, extracts, or capsules. Astragalus is generally used with other herbs, such as ginseng, angelica, and licorice.
• What the Science Says about Astragalus
  • The evidence for using astragalus for any health condition is limited. Results from small or preliminary studies suggest that astragalus may benefit heart function and help the immune system fight infections.
  • A few studies have shown potential benefits for using astragalus--in combination with another herb, glossy privet (Ligustrum lucidum)--as an adjunctive therapy for cancer. In general, however, these studies were not well designed.
  • NCCAM-funded investigators are studying the effects of astragalus on the body, particularly on the immune system.
• Side Effects and Cautions about Astragalus
  • Astragalus is considered safe for most adults. Its possible side effects are not well known because astragalus is generally used in combination with other herbs.
  • Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system, such as the drug cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Neosar) taken by cancer patients and similar drugs taken by organ transplant recipients.
  • People should avoid using astragalus species such as "locoweed" that grow in the United States, as these other species may have different effects and side effects.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

• Picture of Bitter Orange
• What Bitter Orange Is Used For
  • Bitter orange has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and by indigenous people of the Amazon rain forest for nausea, indigestion, and constipation.
  • Current uses of bitter orange are for heartburn, loss of appetite, nasal congestion, and weight loss. It is also applied to the skin for fungal infections such as ringworm and athlete's foot.
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• How Bitter Orange Is Used
  The dried fruit and peel (and sometimes flowers and leaves) are taken by mouth in extracts, tablets, and capsules. Bitter orange oil can be applied to the skin.
• What the Science Says about Bitter Orange
  • There is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of bitter orange for health purposes.
  • Many herbal weight-loss products now use bitter orange peel in place of ephedra. However, bitter orange contains the chemical synephrine, which is similar to the main chemical in ephedra. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned ephedra because it raises blood pressure and is linked to heart attacks and strokes; it is unclear whether bitter orange has similar effects. There is currently little evidence that bitter orange is safer to use than ephedra.
• Side Effects and Cautions about Bitter Orange
  • Because bitter orange contains chemicals that may speed up the heart rate and raise blood pressure, it may not be safe to use as a dietary supplement. There have been reports of fainting, heart attack, and stroke in healthy people after taking bitter orange supplements alone or combined with caffeine. People should avoid taking bitter orange if they have a heart condition or high blood pressure, or if they are taking medications (such as MAO inhibitors), caffeine, or other herbs/supplements that speed up the heart rate.
  • Due to lack of safety evidence, pregnant women should avoid products that contain bitter orange.
  • Bitter orange oil used on the skin may increase the risk of sunburn, particularly in light-skinned people.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

  
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Common Names--chamomile, German chamomile

Latin Names--Matricaria recutita, Chamomilla recutita

• Picture of Chamomile
• What Chamomile Is Used For
  • Chamomile has been widely used in children and adults for thousands of years for a variety of health conditions.
  • The herb is often used for sleeplessness; anxiety; and gastrointestinal conditions such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea.
  • It is used topically for skin conditions and for mouth ulcers resulting from cancer treatment.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: Serenite Jr. - Natural Childhood Insomnia Remedy
    • Gently and effectively treat childhood insomnia without the risks of synthetic drugs
    • Prevent nighttime behavioral problems and restore healthy and regular sleep patterns
    • Relax and calm your child and promote natural, peaceful sleep
    • Assist with sleep problems caused by teething
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: Focus ADHD - Improve Concentration and attention, and Calm high energy levels


Focus ADHD

• Support the body's natural ability to concentrate, assimilate information and regulate emotion
• Help maintain a normal, healthy attitude during over-stimulation
• Naturally facilitate calmness and reasonable clarity of mind
• Promote relaxation and balanced mood
• Encourage the healthy flow of oxygen to the brain
• How Chamomile Is Used
  The flowering tops of the chamomile plant are used to make teas, liquid extracts, capsules, or tablets. The herb can also be applied to the skin as a cream or an ointment, or used as a mouth rinse.
• What the Science Says about Chamomile
  • Chamomile has not been well studied in people so there is little evidence to support its use for any condition.
  • Some early studies point to chamomile's possible benefits for mouth ulcers and certain skin conditions. In combination with other herbs, it may be of some benefit for upset stomach and for diarrhea in children.
  • NCCAM-funded research on chamomile includes studies of the herb for generalized anxiety disorder and for chronic pain caused by children's bowel disorders.
• Side Effects and Cautions about Chamomile
  • There are reports of rare allergic reactions in people who have eaten or come into contact with chamomile products. Reactions include skin rashes, throat swelling, shortness of breath, and anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction).
  • People are more likely to experience allergic reactions to chamomile if they are allergic to related plants in the daisy family, which includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This helps to ensure coordinated and safe care.

• Picture of Cat's Claw Vine
• Picture of Cat's Claw Bark or Wood
• What Cat's Claw Is Used For

  • 
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    • As a natural alternative to prescription anti-inflammatory drugs
    • For relief from painful joint conditions, neck pain or lower back ache
    • To assist with any form of arthritis, fibrositis, myalgia or rheumatism
    • For relief from any degenerative musculoskeletal condition
    • To treat painful knees or 'small joint disease' (e.g. wrists, fingers, ankles and toes)
    • To prevent and relieve the symptoms of gout
    Cat's claw has been used for centuries in South America to prevent and treat disease.
  • It has been used for a variety of health conditions, including viral infections (such as herpes and HIV), Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and arthritis.
  • Cat's claw has been used to support the immune system and promote kidney health, as well as to prevent and abort pregnancy.
  • Herbal remedy for viral infections.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: JointEase Plus - Natural Remedy For Arthritis and Joints
• How Cat's Claw Is Used
  The inner bark of cat's claw is used to make liquid extracts, capsules, and teas. Preparations of cat's claw can also be applied to the skin.
• What the Science Says about Cat's Claw
  • There is not enough scientific evidence to determine how well cat's claw works for any health problem, including arthritis, HIV, or cancer.
  • Small studies in humans have shown a possible benefit of cat's claw in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but no large trials have been done. In laboratory studies, cat's claw stimulates part of the immune system, but it has not been proven to reduce inflammation or boost the immune system in humans.
  • The National Institute on Aging is studying how cat's claw may affect the brain. Findings may point to new avenues for research in Alzheimer's disease treatment.
• Side Effects and Cautions about Cat's Claw
  • Few side effects have been reported for cat's claw when it is taken at recommended dosages. Though rare, side effects may include headaches, dizziness, and vomiting.
  • Women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should avoid using cat's claw because of its past use for preventing and aborting pregnancy.
  • Because cat's claw may stimulate the immune system, it is unclear whether the herb is safe for people with conditions affecting the immune system.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

• Picture of Chasteberry fruit
• Picture of Chasteberry Tree or Bush
• What Chasteberry Is Used For
  • Chasteberry has been used for thousands of years, mostly by women to ease menstrual problems and to stimulate the production of breast milk.
  • Chasteberry is still used for menstrual problems, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), as well as for symptoms of menopause, some types of infertility, and acne. Herbal remedy for sex drive.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: Endo - eX
    • Address the underlying cause of Endometriosis
    • Decrease pelvic inflammation associated with Endometriosis
    • Strengthen liver functioning and protect against environmental pollutants
    • Reduce menstrual pain and cramps
    • Regulate the menstrual cycle
    • Prevent diminished fertility in women with Endometriosis
• How Chasteberry Is Used
  The dried ripe chasteberry is used to prepare liquid extracts or solid extracts that are put into capsules and tablets.
• What the Science Says about Chasteberry
  • A few studies of chasteberry for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) have found a benefit. However, most of these studies were not well designed, so firm conclusions about chasteberry for PMS cannot be drawn.
  • Small studies suggest that chasteberry may help with breast pain and some types of infertility, but there is not enough reliable scientific evidence to determine whether chasteberry has any effect on these conditions.
  • NCCAM is funding studies on chasteberry. Recent projects have explored how chasteberry works in the body and how it might affect symptoms of PMS.
• Side Effects and Cautions about Chasteberry
  • Chasteberry has not been associated with serious side effects. However, it can cause gastrointestinal problems, acne-like rashes, and dizziness.
  • Chasteberry may affect certain hormone levels. Women who are pregnant or taking birth control pills or who have a hormone-sensitive condition (such as breast cancer) should not use chasteberry.
  • Because chasteberry may affect the dopamine system in the brain, people taking dopamine-related medications, such as selegiline, amantadine, and levodopa, should avoid chasteberry.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Common Names--cranberry, American cranberry, bog cranberry

Latin Name--Vaccinium macrocarpon

• Picture of Cranberry berries
• Picture of Cranberry Bush
• What Cranberry Is Used For
  • Historically, cranberry fruits and leaves were used for a variety of problems, such as wounds, urinary disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, stomach ailments, and liver problems.
  • Recently, cranberry products have been used in the hope of preventing or treating urinary tract infections or Helicobacter pylori infections that can lead to stomach ulcers, or to prevent dental plaque. Cranberry has also been reported to have antioxidant and anticancer activity.
  • Herbal remedy for urinary disorders.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: Read more about UTI natural remedies
• How Cranberry Is Used
  The berries are used to produce beverages and many other food products, as well as dietary supplements in the form of extracts, teas, and capsules or tablets.
• What the Science Says about Cranberry
  • Some studies testing cranberry products for their ability to prevent urinary tract infections have shown promise. These studies have generally been small in size, and some were not randomized or controlled; therefore, the results are not conclusive.
  • Cranberry products have not been adequately tested to see if they can be used to help treat an existing urinary tract infection.
  • Research shows that components found in cranberry may prevent bacteria, such as E. coli, from clinging to the cells along the walls of the urinary tract and causing infection. However, the mechanism of action of cranberry is not fully understood.
  • NCCAM, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, and the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research are funding studies to understand whether and how cranberry might work to:
    • Prevent urinary tract infection
    • Prevent the formation of dental plaque
• Side Effects and Cautions about Cranberry
  • Eating cranberry products in food amounts appears to be safe, but drinking excessive amounts of juice could cause gastrointestinal upset or diarrhea.
  • People who think they have a urinary tract infection should see a health care provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Cranberry products should not be used to treat infection.
  • It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including cranberry. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.

Common Names--lion's tooth, blowball

Latin Name--Taraxacum officinale

• Picture of Dandelion
• What Dandelion Is Used For
  • Dandelion has been used in many traditional medical systems, including Native American and traditional Arabic medicine.
  • Historically, dandelion was most commonly used to treat liver diseases, kidney diseases, and spleen problems. Less commonly, dandelion was used to treat digestive problems and skin conditions.
  • Today, dandelion is used by some as a liver or kidney "tonic," as a diuretic, and for minor digestive problems.
  • Herbal remedy for liver and kidney deseases.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: Detox Drops - To assist in the elimination of toxins from the body
• How Dandelion Is Used
  The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, are used fresh or dried in teas, capsules, or extracts. Dandelion leaves are used in salads or as a cooked green, and the flowers are used to make wine.
• What the Science Says about Dandelion
  There is no compelling scientific evidence for using dandelion as a treatment for any medical condition
• Side Effects and Cautions about Dandelion
  • Dandelion use is generally considered safe. However, there have been rare reports of upset stomach and diarrhea, and some people are allergic to the plant.
  • People with an inflamed or infected gallbladder, or blocked bile ducts, should avoid using dandelion.
  • It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including dandelion.
    This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.

• Picture of Echinacea
• What Echinacea Is Used For
  • Echinacea has traditionally been an herbal remedy to treat or prevent colds, flu, and other infections.

  
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  • As a natural alternative to antibiotic treatment of ear infections
  • To treat bacterial, viral and fungal infections of the ear
  • As a companion to Ear-OK ear drops for a complete solution
  • To reduce inflammation, pain and throbbing in the ears
  • To prevent recurrence of chronic ear infections
  • To boost immune system functioning
  • Echinacea is believed to stimulate the immune system to help fight infections.
  • Less commonly, echinacea has been used for wounds and skin problems, such as acne or boils.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: Ear-Heal Drops - Natural antibiotic alternative specifically formulated for ear infections
• How Echinacea Is Used
  The aboveground parts of the plant and roots of echinacea are used fresh or dried to make teas, squeezed (expressed) juice, extracts, or preparations for external use.
• What the Science Says about Echinacea
  • Studies indicate that echinacea does not appear to prevent colds or other infections.
  • Studies to date have not proven that echinacea shortens the course of colds or flu. For example, two NCCAM-funded studies did not find a benefit from echinacea, either as Echinacea purpurea fresh-pressed juice for treating colds in children, or as an unrefined mixture of
  • Echinacea angustifolia root and Echinacea purpurea root and herb in adults.1,2 Other studies have shown that echinacea may be beneficial in treating upper respiratory infections.3
  • NCCAM is continuing to support the study of echinacea for the treatment of upper respiratory infections.
• Side Effects and Cautions about Echinacea
  • When taken by mouth, echinacea usually does not cause side effects. However, some people experience allergic reactions, including rashes, increased asthma, and anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction). In clinical trials, gastrointestinal side effects were most common.
  • People are more likely to experience allergic reactions to echinacea if they are allergic to related plants in the daisy family, which includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies. Also, people with asthma or atopy (a genetic tendency toward allergic reactions) may be more likely to have an allergic reaction when taking echinacea.
  • It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including echinacea. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.

• Picture of Ephedra
• What Ephedra Is Used For

  
  Fatigue Fighter - Natural Remedy for Chronic Fatigue Helps Boost Energy.

  • Promote healthy energy levels and stamina
  • Encourage overall systemic health and support the immune system
  • Promote healthy systemic adequacy for physical performance and endurance
  • Reduce feelings of common listlessness associated with routine tiredness
  • Assist in the prevention of burnout
  • Ephedra has been used for more than 5,000 years in China and India to treat conditions such as colds, fever, flu, headaches, asthma, wheezing, and nasal congestion.
  • It has also been an ingredient in many dietary supplements used for weight loss, increased energy, and enhanced athletic performance.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: Fatigue Fighter - Natural Remedy for Chronic Fatigue Helps Boost Energy.
    • Increase energy levels and feelings of well being
    • Improve overall systemic functioning and strengthen the immune system
    • Increase physical performance and endurance levels without harmful side effects of steroids, ephedra, etc
    • Assist recovery from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME or 'Yuppie Flu') and other illnesses
    • Increase stamina, reduce fatigue and listlessness caused by stress, depression, illness or unhealthy lifestyle
• How Ephedra Is Used
  The dried stems and leaves of the plant are used to create capsules, tablets, extracts, tinctures, and teas.
• What the Science Says about Ephedra
  • An NCCAM-funded study that analyzed phone calls to poison control centers found a higher rate of side effects from ephedra, compared with other herbal products.
  • Other studies and systematic reviews have found an increased risk of heart, psychiatric, and gastrointestinal problems, as well as high blood pressure and stroke, with ephedra use.
  • According to the FDA, there is little evidence of ephedra's effectiveness, except for short-term weight loss. However, the increased risk of heart problems and stroke outweighs any benefits.
• Side Effects and Cautions about Ephedra
  • In 2004, the FDA banned the U.S. sale of dietary supplements containing ephedra. The FDA found that these supplements had an unreasonable risk of injury or illness--particularly cardiovascular complications--and a risk of death. The ban does not apply to traditional Chinese herbal remedies or to products like herbal teas regulated as conventional foods.
  • Between 1995 and 1997, the FDA received more than 900 reports of possible ephedra toxicity. Serious adverse events such as stroke, heart attack, and sudden death were reported in 37 cases.
  • Taking ephedra can also result in nausea, anxiety, headache, psychosis, kidney stones, tremors, dry mouth, irregular heart rhythms, heart damage, high blood pressure, restlessness, sleep problems, irritation of the stomach, and increased urination.
  • Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and children should avoid taking ephedra.
    Using ephedra may worsen many health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, sleep disorders, and diabetes.
  • Ephedra use may lead to serious health problems when used with other dietary supplements or medicines.
  • Combining ephedra with caffeine increases the risk of potentially serious side effects.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Common Names--European elder, black elder, elder, elderberry, elder flower, sambucus

Latin Names--Sambucus nigra

• Picture of European Elder berries
• Picture of European Elder Flower
• What European Elder Is Used For
  • Parts of the elder tree--such as the berries and flowers--have long been used for pain, swelling, infections, coughs, and skin conditions.
  • Today, elderberry and elder flower are used for flu, colds, fevers, constipation, and sinus infections.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: ComfiCoff - Naturally eases throat and chest discomfort
• How European Elder Is Used
  The dried flowers (elder flower) and the cooked blue/black berries (elderberry) of the European elder tree are used in teas, liquid extracts, and capsules.
• What the Science Says about European Elder
  • Although some small studies show that elderberry may relieve flu symptoms, the evidence is not strong enough to support this use of the berry.
  • A few studies have suggested that a product containing elder flower and other herbs can help treat sinus infections when used with antibiotics, but further research is needed to confirm any benefit.
  • No reliable information is available on the effectiveness of elderberry and elder flower for other uses.
• Side Effects and Cautions of European Elder
  • Uncooked or unripe elderberries are toxic and can cause nausea, vomiting, or severe diarrhea. Only the blue/black berries of elder are edible.
  • Because of elder flower's possible diuretic effects, use caution if taking it with drugs that increase urination.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This helps to ensure coordinated and safe care.

• Picture of Primrose
• What Primrose Is Used For
  • Evening primrose oil has been used since the 1930s for eczema (a condition in which the skin becomes inflamed, itchy, or scaly because of allergies or other irritation).
  • More recently it has been used for other conditions involving inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Evening primrose oil is used for conditions affecting women's health, such as breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle, menopausal symptoms, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
  • It is used during pregnancy in attempts to shorten the duration of labor.
    Other conditions for which evening primrose oil is used include cancer and diabetes.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine:
• How Primrose Is Used
  Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose. The oil is usually put into capsules for use.
• What the Science Says about Primrose
  • Evening primrose oil may have modest benefits for eczema, and it may be useful for rheumatoid arthritis and breast pain. However, study results are mixed, and most studies have been small and not well designed.
  • Evening primrose oil does not appear to affect menopausal symptoms.
  • Although some clinical trials have shown a benefit of evening primrose oil for PMS, the best-designed trials found no effect.
  • There is not enough evidence to support the use of evening primrose oil for other health conditions
• Side Effects and Cautions of Primrose
  • Evening primrose oil is well tolerated by most people. Mild side effects include gastrointestinal upset and headache.
  • Evening primrose oil appears to be safe for use during pregnancy, but data are limited.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Common Names--fenugreek, fenugreek seed

Latin Names--Trigonella foenum-graecum

• Picture of Fenugreek
• What Fenugreek Is Used For
  • Historically, fenugreek was used for a variety of health conditions, including menopausal symptoms and digestive problems. It was also used for inducing childbirth.
  • Today, it is used for diabetes and loss of appetite, and to stimulate milk production in breast-feeding women. It is also applied to the skin to treat inflammation.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine: Kiddie Florish - Naturally encourages a child's healthy appetite
• How Fenugreek Is Used
  The dried seeds are ground and taken by mouth or used to form a paste that is applied to the skin.
• What the Science Says about Fenugreek
  • A few small studies have found that fenugreek may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
  • There is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of fenugreek for any other health condition.
• Side Effects and Cautions of Fenugreek
  • Possible side effects of fenugreek when taken by mouth include gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Fenugreek can cause irritation when applied to the skin.
  • Given its historical use for inducing childbirth, women should use caution when taking fenugreek during pregnancy.
    Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

• Picture of Feverfew
• What Feverfew Is Used For
  • Feverfew has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy for fevers, headaches, stomach aches, toothaches, insect bites, infertility, and problems with menstruation and labor during childbirth.
  • Recently, feverfew has been used for migraine headaches and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Feverfew has also been used for psoriasis, allergies, asthma, tinnitus (ringing or roaring sounds in the ears), dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Try our Herbal Remedy and Herbal Medicine:
• How Feverfew Is Used
  • The dried leaves--and sometimes flowers and stems--of feverfew are used to make supplements, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts.
  • The leaves are sometimes eaten fresh.
• What the Science Says about Feverfew
  • Some research suggests that feverfew may be helpful in preventing migraine headaches; however, results have been mixed and more evidence is needed from well-designed studies.
  • One study found that feverfew did not reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in women whose symptoms did not respond to conventional medicines. It has been suggested that feverfew could help those with milder symptoms.
  • There is not enough evidence available to assess whether feverfew is beneficial for other uses.
  • NCCAM-funded researchers are studying ways to standardize feverfew; that is, to prepare it in a consistent manner. Standardized preparations could be used in future studies of feverfew for migraines.
• Side Effects and Cautions of Feverfew
  • No serious side effects have been reported for feverfew. Side effects can include canker sores, swelling and irritation of the lips and tongue, and loss of taste.
  • Less common side effects can include nausea, digestive problems, and bloating.
  • People who take feverfew for a long time and then stop taking it may have headaches, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, stiff muscles, and joint pain.
  • Women who are pregnant should not use feverfew because it may cause the uterus to contract, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature delivery.
  • People can have allergic reactions to feverfew. Those who are allergic to other members of the daisy family (which includes ragweed and chrysanthemums) are more likely to be allergic to feverfew.
  • Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.