$Unique_ID{BRK02411}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What Is the Herb Feverfew?}
$Subject{drug feverfew treating arthritis medication herb medications leaf
tanacetum parthenium folk medicine medicines drugs treatment treatments herbal
herbs leaves herbolic}
$Volume{R-26}
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Copyright (c) 1992,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Is the Herb Feverfew?


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QUESTION:  What can you tell me about a drug named "feverfew"?  My aunt who
lives in England claims it is a true miracle drug when it comes to treating
her arthritis, but my doctor here has never heard of it.  Perhaps you can find
out its Brand Name and let me know.  Thanks for your help.

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ANSWER:  To set things straight, feverfew is not a drug or medication under
the definitions of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but rather it is
considered an herb.  Thus it is not subject to the same regulations as other
medications and can not be marketed with any claims of cures or medical
indications.
     The leaf of Tanacetum parthenium is the product known as feverfew.  It is
well known in Great Britain, and is approved as an over-the-counter folk
medicine in Canada.  It can be found in the United States, mostly in stores
that specialize in such products and is sold only as a food supplement.  It is
claimed to be an effective preparation for migraine headache and as an
arthritic pain reliever, but there are no long term safety studies available
for evaluation.  In addition, various preparations of the leaf contain
differing amounts of the major active ingredient, making its action
unpredictable at best.  There currently are efforts in the United States to
establish new regulations within the FDA to govern the testing and use of
herbal preparations with therapeutic indications.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.