Arthritis, remedies feverfew

Johnson, S. (1984) Feverfew. A Traditional Herbal Remedy for Migraine and Arthritis, Sheldon Press, London. 

Feverfew is widely consumed in England as a remedy for arthritis and migraine. Feverfew contains parthenolide, which is a member of sesquiterpene. Parthenolide inhibits the activity of prostaglandin synthetase. It also inhibits platelet aggregation and alter serotonin release (Figure 25.2). 

Tanacetum parthenium (Asteraceae), commonly known as feverfew, is a popular herbal remedy used a prophylactic in the treatment of migraine [88]. Studies have revealed that the action of feverfew is probably mediated by the sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide. Indeed, feverfew and parthenolide produce anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects in experimental animals [89]. Parthenolide is a potent inhibitor of the transcription factor NF-kB activation, a key regulator of pro-inflammatory protein production, such as cytokines, COX-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase [90]. However, a clinical study revealed that feverfew did not provide any benefit in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis [91]. Additional clinical studies must be carried out to explore the feverfew efficacy as an analgesic. 

Johnson, E.S. 1984. Feverfew A traditional herbal remedy for migraine and arthritis. London Sheldon Press. 

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