Butterbur Extract: How It Can Help You

Butterbur, Petasites hybridus, is a perennial shrub related to the sunflower, safflower, marigold, dandelion, thistle, and artichoke. It goes by many other names including butter dock, coltsfoot, bog rhubarb, and exwort. Once, people used the plant's large, round leaves to wrap butter, hence its name. Butterbur appears in Europe, Asia, and North America. Its leaves, stems, and rhizomes contain unique compounds that herbalists can extract and sell as over-the-counter supplements. Formulations include soft capsules, tinctures, powders, and teas.

emer1940 / Getty Images

Allergic rhinitis or hay fever produces symptoms such as nasal congestion, itchy, watery eyes, and sneezing. These conditions result from the release of histamines in the body. Clinical studies have documented butterbur's antihistamine properties, which appear to reduce symptoms dramatically. The extract shows significant effectiveness rivaling that of cetirizine in treating seasonal allergies, with fewer adverse side effects than the drug.

PeopleImages / Getty Images

Chronic inflammation gradually wears down the body and renders it vulnerable to many distresses and serious diseases. Extensive studies suggest butterbur extract induces an almost immediate anti-inflammatory effect in the body. The supplement shows remarkable promise in reducing symptoms of inflammation, including:

• acid reflux,
• bronchitis,
• skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis,
• yeast infections,
• diabetes,
• arthritis,
• cardiovascular disease, and
• cancer.

wildpixel / Getty Images

The University of Michigan Health System reports that consuming butterbur extract can facilitate airflow to the lungs. The herb has expectorant properties that help the expulsion of phlegm and mucus from the nasal cavities and respiratory tracts. Eliminating the buildup of these substances inhibits the growth of bacteria, thereby helping prevent or reduce the severity of the common cold and flu.

Jan-Otto / Getty Images

Some studies suggest including butterbur in traditional treatment may improve asthma symptoms that affect about 300 million people worldwide. A German study conducted in 2004 noted a significant decrease in the number, duration, and severity of asthma attacks following dosages of butterbur extract. Another South Korean study found the herb contains anti-inflammatory agents that may effectively treat asthma.

baona / Getty Images

Butterbur extract is most popular as a treatment for headaches and migraines. It contains the compounds petasin and isopetasin, which researchers have linked directly to the reduction of the symptoms, severity, and duration of migraines. Research indicates the herb's anti-inflammatory and anti-convulsive properties can reduce vasoconstriction in cerebral blood vessel walls and soothe pain receptors, providing considerable relief.

Steve Debenport / Getty Images

Butterbur contains analgesic and antispasmodic compounds. Research indicates oxopetasan and isopetasin esters in butterbur help suppress spasms in smooth muscle and vascular wall tissue. Small dosages of the extract may provide quick relief from urinary disorders, irritable bowels, menstrual cramps, bile flow obstruction, kidney stones, tremors, and chronic pain.

ChesiireCat / Getty Images

Butterbur extract has been touted as a remedy for gastrointestinal conditions for centuries. It shows immense effectiveness in preventing and treating gastric and skin ulcers. Research indicates phytonutrients promote an inflammation-reducing chemical balance in the stomach that encourages healing. A 1993 German study found the extract inhibited ethanol-induced gastric damage.

Staras / Getty Images

Researchers have yet to determine the long-term effects butterbur, so it is best to consult a physician if using the extract regularly and consider researching various brands to ensure the supplement is safe for consumption. The following dosage guidelines come from extensive clinical testing:

• For migraine headache prevention: Adults may take 50 to 100 mg two times a day with meals. Doses over 50 mg appear to be more effective. Children under the supervision of a physician may take 25 to 50 mg twice daily with meals.
• For hay fever: Adults may take 50 mg two times a day. Children under the supervision of a physician may take 25 mg twice daily.

kokouu / Getty Images

Butterbur extract has few reported adverse effects. In some cases, it may induce belching, itchy eyes, fatigue, and drowsiness. More serious side effects include jaundice, swelling of the abdomen, and chest pain. People who have liver dysfunction or liver disease should avoid this extract. Pregnant or nursing women and individuals sensitive to plants in the sunflower family should not consume butterbur extract. When choosing a supplement, ensure it is free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). These naturally occurring chemicals may cause serious harm such as liver, kidney and lung damage. For this reason, avoid raw, unprocessed butterbur products.

goktugg / Getty Images