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Butterbur Root Extract

Q: Is butterbur root extract safe?

It is generally safe if PA-free products are used. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) can cause liver toxicity, so ensure the product is certified PA-free.

Q: How long does it take to see results?

For migraine prevention, noticeable improvements are typically observed within 2-3 months of consistent use. For allergic rhinitis, improvements can be seen within a few weeks.

Q: How should I take butterbur root extract?

Consistent daily dosing is crucial for preventive effects. Take capsules or tablets containing standardized extracts, preferably with food to enhance bioavailability.

Q: Is butterbur a cure for migraines or allergies?

No, it is not a cure but rather a preventive measure. It helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraines and allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Also known as: Butterbur, Petasite, Bog Rhubarb, Butterbur Root Extract, Petasites hybridus

Overview

Butterbur root extract is derived from the root of the *Petasites hybridus* plant, native to Europe and parts of North America, and has a history in folk medicine. It is primarily used to treat migraines, allergic rhinitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) due to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. The extract contains sesquiterpenes, particularly petasins, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Research maturity is moderate to high, with several clinical trials and systematic reviews available, providing generally good evidence for migraine prevention and allergic rhinitis, though evidence varies for other uses. High-quality extracts are free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs).

Benefits

Butterbur root extract has shown significant benefits in migraine prevention and allergic rhinitis. A meta-analysis indicated a 48% reduction in migraine frequency compared to placebo (p < 0.001). Studies suggest that consistent use over 2-3 months is needed to observe these benefits. For allergic rhinitis, clinical trials have demonstrated improvements in nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes compared to placebo (p < 0.05), with benefits typically seen within a few weeks. Limited evidence suggests potential benefits for IBS symptoms, but more extensive research is required. One study suggests it could be effective in reducing migraine frequency in children and adolescents, though more research is needed.

How it works

Butterbur root extract's sesquiterpenes, especially petasins A and B, inhibit leukotriene production and other inflammatory mediators. This interaction with the immune system reduces inflammation, while interaction with the nervous system modulates pain pathways. The bioavailability of petasins is moderate, with peak plasma levels reached within 1-2 hours after oral administration. It primarily targets leukotriene synthesis inhibitors and anti-inflammatory pathways to exert its therapeutic effects.

Side effects

Butterbur root extract is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses from PA-free sources. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea and diarrhea (greater than 5%). Uncommon side effects (1-5%) include fatigue and dizziness. Rare side effects (less than 1%) include allergic reactions. It may interact with anticoagulants and anti-inflammatory drugs due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Contraindications include pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data, and liver disease due to potential hepatotoxicity from PAs if not properly removed. Children and adolescents should use it under medical supervision due to limited safety data.

Dosage

For migraine prevention, a minimum effective dose is 50-75 mg per day of a standardized extract containing 7.5-15 mg of petasins. For allergic rhinitis, the optimal dosage ranges from 50-100 mg per day. The maximum safe dose generally should not exceed 150 mg per day. Consistent daily dosing is recommended for preventive effects. Capsules or tablets containing standardized extracts are preferred. Bioavailability can be enhanced with food intake. No specific cofactors are required.

FAQs

Is butterbur root extract safe?

It is generally safe if PA-free products are used. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) can cause liver toxicity, so ensure the product is certified PA-free.

How long does it take to see results?

For migraine prevention, noticeable improvements are typically observed within 2-3 months of consistent use. For allergic rhinitis, improvements can be seen within a few weeks.

How should I take butterbur root extract?

Consistent daily dosing is crucial for preventive effects. Take capsules or tablets containing standardized extracts, preferably with food to enhance bioavailability.

Is butterbur a cure for migraines or allergies?

No, it is not a cure but rather a preventive measure. It helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraines and allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Research Sources

https://doi.org/10.1212/01.WNL.0000145769.34055.38 – A systematic review and meta-analysis published in *Neurology* found that butterbur root extract significantly reduced the frequency of migraine attacks. The study, involving 245 patients, showed a 48% reduction in migraine frequency compared to placebo (p < 0.001), indicating its effectiveness as a preventive treatment.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.324.7330.144 – A randomized controlled trial (RCT) published in *BMJ* demonstrated that butterbur extract reduced symptoms of allergic rhinitis. The study found a significant improvement in nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes compared to placebo (p < 0.05), supporting its use in managing seasonal allergies.
https://doi.org/10.1097/MCG.0b013e31802f6c6a – A double-blind RCT published in the *Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology* investigated the efficacy and tolerability of butterbur extract in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study, involving 60 patients, showed some improvement in IBS symptoms, though not statistically significant for all outcomes, suggesting potential but limited benefits for IBS.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejpn.2011.02.005 – A pilot study published in the *European Journal of Paediatric Neurology* explored the treatment of childhood migraines with butterbur root extract. The study suggested that butterbur could be effective in reducing migraine frequency in children and adolescents, indicating a potential therapeutic option for this population, though more research is needed.