Compound Monograph
Parthenolide
Parthenolide is a sesquiterpene lactone and the principal active compound of feverfew.
Classification
Parthenolide is a sesquiterpene lactone, part of the terpenoids class. The largest class of plant compounds, built from five-carbon isoprene units — the essential-oil aromatics, resins, bitter principles, saponins, and plant sterols.
Where Does It Come From? (4)
Parthenolide is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene lactone, found in Feverfew, Some Chrysanthemum and Tanacetum species and 2 other sources. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Parthenolide is a germacranolide sesquiterpene lactone and the best-known active constituent of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), a herb with a long traditional reputation for the prevention of migraine. Much of its biological activity is attributed to the reactive lactone group, which can inhibit the inflammatory signalling pathway NF-κB. It has been studied for anti-inflammatory effects and, more recently, in cancer cell research, though clinical evidence for standardised feverfew in migraine remains mixed.
Toxicity & Safety
As a reactive sesquiterpene lactone, parthenolide can cause contact dermatitis and mouth irritation, and feverfew may trigger allergic reactions in people sensitive to the daisy (Asteraceae) family. Chewing fresh leaves can cause mouth ulcers. Feverfew is generally not recommended during pregnancy.