TITLE:
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium): GC-MS Analysis and Therapeutic Insights
AUTHORS:
Mhd. Isam Hasan Agha, Ramah Baaj, Layla Alnuaimy, Lujain Ashur
KEYWORDS:
Feverfew, Migraine, Tanacetum parthenium, GC-MS, Phytochemicals, Asteraceae
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Molecular Imaging,
Vol.14 No.3,
July
30,
2025
ABSTRACT: Background: Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L. Family Asteraceae) is a widespread plant in Syria, which is used traditionally in the treatment of Migraine, which is considered as one of the most disabling neurological disorders. The Aim of the Study: This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition of feverfew extracts using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and to assess their potential therapeutic role in migraine management. Methods: Fresh flowers of feverfew were collected, processed, and analyzed with GC-MS (HP-5MS column, temperature ramp 40˚C - 260˚C, Agilent 7890A system, University of Damascus laboratory). Both aqueous and oil extracts were studied. Results: The oil extract revealed abundant of terpenes (e.g., Z-Ocimene 16.75%), hydrocarbons (Methylcyclohexane 33.49%), and phenolics (2,6-di-tert-butylphenol 1.62%). The aqueous extract showed phenolics and steroid-like compounds (Preg-4-en-3-one, 10.18%; Oxaspiro-dione, 11.23%) with terpenoids. These compounds are known for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroactive properties. Conclusion: The findings ensure the presence of anti-migraine compounds, and support the traditional use of feverfew in migraine relief.