Information on fifty-nine patients was available at the end of trial. The researchers observed significant reduction of mean number, severity, and vomiting associated with migraines in volunteers who received feverfew compared to the controls. These researchers confirmed a reasonable basis for feverfew to help reduce symptoms associated with the management of migraines. This study, the first of its kind, pointed to the need for more intensive research of feverfew, especially in standardization of quality in commercial preparations as they relate to clinical applications. Abnormal platelet behavior has been implicated as a possible explanation for the development of migraines.
Serotonin constricts blood vessels among other actions.
Red wines, for example have been shown to release serotonin from blood platelets, inducing headaches. Some types of red wine have been found to produce a significantly greater release of the compound. Recent research has shown that a flavonoid fraction subgroup in red wine may be responsible for the serotonin release and resulting headaches. The challenge now is to find the exact compound responsible and remove it from commercial red wines. Serotonin antagonists have been suggested for use in a supportive role in migraine prevention.