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Herbs & Supplements
Altamisa
Scientific Name: Feverfew
Other Names: Chrysanthemum parthenium, Featherfew, Flirtwort, Pyrethrum parthenium, Tanacetum parthenium, Wild Chamomile, Wild Quinine
What side effects should I watch for?
Major Side Effects
Chemicals in feverfew may increase heart rate. Possibly dangerous changes in heart rhythm may result.
Less Severe Side Effects
Chewing fresh leaves of feverfew may result in:
- Altered ability to taste foods
- Mouth sores
- Swollen lips or tongue
Some individuals who took feverfew for extended times reported:
- Joint stiffness
- Muscle aches
- Nervousness
- Sleep disturbance
If feverfew is stopped suddenly after being taken for an extended period of time, rebound headaches may result. Although the exact causes of rebound headaches are not known, they are believed to be associated with interruption of the body's normal pain-signaling process. Usually, they occur when pain medications are taken too often or in high doses, and then stopped.
Feverfew belongs to the same family of plants that also includes chrysanthemums, daisies, and ragweed. Individuals who are sensitive to any of these similar plants may also be sensitive to feverfew.
When the plants are touched or a feverfew preparation is applied to the skin, irritation may develop at the site. Research done recently in Denmark suggests that individuals who are allergic to feverfew may have a reaction without touching the plant. They may develop a rash or other allergy symptoms after being exposed to pollen or other fragments of feverfew that are suspended in the air.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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What side effects should I watch for? 
