10 Possible Side Effects Of Tanacetum Parthenium (Feverfew)

Tanacetum parthenium has some side effects when used improperly, such as dizziness, headaches, and stomach upset.

These side effects can occur due to excessive consumption of the herb or allergic reactions to its active compounds, like sesquiterpene lactones.

If left unchecked, these symptoms can worsen people's lives by hindering daily activities, affecting work productivity, and potentially leading to medication interactions or more severe health conditions.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Tanacetum parthenium if used imporperly.

1. Reduces blood pressure

2. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium induces drowsiness suddenly due to its sedative properties, which are believed to be caused by the presence of sesquiterpene lactones, particularly parthenolide.

As a natural relaxant, it can slow down the body's functions, including brain activity, leading to feelings of drowsiness and fatigue.

This side effect is often accompanied by a sense of calmness and reduced anxiety, making it an effective treatment for stress-related disorders.

3. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium increases bleeding risk due to its ability to interfere with platelet function and aggregation.

The herb's sesquiterpene lactones, particularly parthenolide, may cause a decrease in the production of thromboxane A2, a compound involved in blood clotting.

This alteration can lead to increased bleeding time and severity, potentially causing symptoms such as nosebleeds, bruising, or gastrointestinal bleeding.

4. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium causes digestive problems due to its ability to stimulate stomach contractions and increase gut motility.

This can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

The plant's bioactive compounds, particularly sesquiterpene lactones, are responsible for these gastrointestinal effects, which may be more pronounced in individuals with pre-existing digestive issues or those taking medications that interact with the herb.

5. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium triggers headache attacks due to its active compound, parthenolide.

This chemical can cause a reaction in the body that leads to blood vessel constriction and platelet aggregation, resulting in migraine-like headaches.

Additionally, parthenolide may stimulate the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in pain transmission, further exacerbating headache symptoms.

6. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium provokes respiratory issues by releasing pyrethrins, a type of chemical compound that can stimulate the release of histamine in the body.

This reaction can cause constriction of airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath in some individuals who are sensitive to its effects.

Additionally, feverfew's ability to relax smooth muscles may also contribute to bronchial spasms, exacerbating respiratory issues in certain people.

7. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium stimulates rapid heart rate due to its ability to increase blood pressure and cardiac output.

The herb's active compounds, such as parthenolide, can cause vasodilation, leading to an increased heart rate as the body attempts to compensate for the decrease in blood vessel resistance. Additionally, feverfew may stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, releasing epinephrine and increasing heart rate further.

As a result, individuals may experience palpitations or tachycardia when using Tanacetum parthenium.

8. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium produces anxiety symptoms due to its potential to interact with the body's serotonin levels.

The herb contains parthenolide, a compound that can affect the brain's neurotransmitters, leading to feelings of unease and tension.

Additionally, some individuals may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions to certain compounds found in feverfew, which can also contribute to anxiety-like symptoms.

9. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium hinders cognitive function due to its ability to interact with neurotransmitters in the brain.

The sesquiterpene lactones present in the plant may bind to GABA receptors, reducing the activity of inhibitory neurotransmitters and potentially leading to impaired concentration and memory.

Additionally, feverfew's ability to stimulate the release of acetylcholine may further disrupt cognitive function by increasing levels of this excitatory neurotransmitter, resulting in difficulties with attention and mental processing.

10. Reduces blood pressure

Tanacetum parthenium disrupts menstrual cycles due to its ability to affect the uterus and ovaries.

The herb's estrogen-like properties can alter hormone levels, leading to changes in menstruation patterns. This may cause irregular or heavy bleeding, as well as a delay in the onset of menses.

Additionally, feverfew's anti-inflammatory compounds may also influence prostaglandins, which regulate uterine contractions, further affecting menstrual cycles.