Butterbur is a herb native to Europe, Southwest Asia, and North Africa. Its leaf and root extracts have been used to treat allergies, asthma, headaches, and muscle spasms. Butterbur has also been shown through clinical studies to be effective for migraines, allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the mucus membranes of the nose marked by a runny nose, congestion, itching, and sneezing), and asthma. Extracts from the leaves, stem, and roots of the plant are typically available in soft-gel capsule form, making them quick, easy, and convenient to add to your daily routine.
What are some benefits of Butterbur?
• Anti-Inflammatory: Butterbur contains potent anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to prevent the accumulation of inflammatory cells in the body. Kaempferol, one of the components found in butterbur, also contains inflammation-busting properties.
• Seasonal Allergy: With emerging studies, people suffering from seasonal allergies may find butterbur to be an effective natural alternative to help decrease symptoms. Not only was butterbur as effective as cetirizine at improving symptoms, but it also resulted in fewer negative side effects, such as drowsiness and fatigue.
• Asthma Control: Some evidence shows that butterbur could be used in combination with traditional treatment to help improve asthma symptoms. Using butterbur, alone or with fewer treatments for asthma, could help reduce the symptoms and severity of asthma while lowering the number of asthma attacks.
• Brain Health: The compounds found in butterbur may be able to help keep your brain healthy and prevent degenerative disorders of the brain, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Oxidative damage is caused by the buildup of harmful free radicals, compounds that form as a result of factors like stress, pollution, and a poor diet.
• Relieves Headache: The most common use of butterbur is for the relief and prevention of migraines and headaches. In a study of 33 adults, butterbur extract decreased the average number of migraine attacks per month after 3 months of treatment.
What are the side effects?
Butterbur is generally safe and well tolerated. Common butterbur side effects include headaches, diarrhea, fatigue, belching, and itchy eyes.The consumption of raw, unprocessed butterbur for those with liver problems, in particular, is not recommended.
What is the recommended dose?
The typical oral dosage for an adult is between 100 and 150 milligrams (mg) per day, in two or three divided doses. Children should not take more than 50–75 mg twice daily.
What are some drug interactions?
Avoid taking butterbur if you are taking anticholinergics or CYP3A4 inducers. Medications that increase the breakdown of other medications by the liver (Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inducers) interact with butterbur.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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