Purple Butterbur Root Extract
Also known as: Butterbur, petasites, purple butterbur, butter dock, bog rhubarb, exwort, pestilence wort, Devil's hat, Petasites hybridus
Overview
Butterbur, derived from *Petasites hybridus*, is an herbal supplement sourced from the roots and leaves of a plant native to Europe, Southwest Asia, and North Africa. The extract is primarily utilized for migraine prevention and has also been associated with relief from allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms. The active compounds, known as petasins, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiallergic properties. Research on butterbur is moderately mature, featuring several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical recommendations, but concerns exist regarding its safety due to the presence of potentially harmful pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Overall, the evidence for butterbur’s effectiveness is rated as good quality, though inconsistencies remain regarding safety aspects and long-term use.
Benefits
Butterbur is chiefly recognized for its ability to prevent migraines, with studies indicating a significant decrease in attack frequency. One RCT reported a 48% reduction in migraine occurrence with a dose of 75 mg taken twice daily, compared to a 26% reduction in the placebo group. Additionally, an open-label study in children indicated a 63% reduction in headache frequency. Some evidence supports its use for allergic rhinitis symptoms, although findings in this area are less robust. The herb also shows antioxidant properties. Overall, the evidence suggests notable benefits, particularly for adults and children suffering from migraines.
How it works
The main compounds in butterbur, petasins, inhibit leukotriene and histamine activities, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects. These compounds also exhibit calcium channel blocking capabilities, important for migraine prophylaxis. Butterbur interacts with vascular smooth muscle to promote vasorelaxation through antagonism of L-type voltage-dependent calcium channels, aiding in headache prevention.
Side effects
While butterbur is generally well-tolerated, it can cause mild gastrointestinal side effects (e.g., burping) in over 5% of users. Serious adverse reactions are rare but may occur due to hepatotoxicity associated with pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Due to these alkaloids, individuals with liver dysfunction or disease are advised against using butterbur. Caution is also warranted concerning potential drug interactions, particularly involving other hepatotoxic substances. Contraindications include hypersensitivity to butterbur and liver conditions. Overall, monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended for users.
Dosage
For migraine prevention, the effective dose range for adults is typically between 50 mg and 150 mg daily, divided into two doses. A minimum effective dose of 50 mg twice daily is recognized, with 75 mg twice daily yielding superior results based on studies. Though there is no established maximum safe dose, intake exceeding 150 mg has not been well-studied. Consistent dosing, ideally taken twice daily, is crucial for maintaining therapeutic effects, and users should ensure the extract is free from pyrrolizidine alkaloids to minimize risks.
FAQs
What are the safety concerns related to butterbur?
Butterbur contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be hepatotoxic. It is not recommended for individuals with liver disease or dysfunction.
How should I administer butterbur?
The recommended dosage should be taken consistently, ideally split into two doses per day to maintain effective levels.
When can I expect results from butterbur?
Most users notice significant reductions in migraine frequency within a few months of consistent treatment.
Is butterbur completely safe?
Butterbur presents risks, particularly of hepatotoxicity due to its alkaloid content, thus it should be used with caution.
Research Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537160/ – This comprehensive resource discusses the therapeutic uses of butterbur, particularly its safety and efficacy in migraine prevention, highlighting the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids and associated safety warnings.
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/butterbur – The NCCIH provides insights into the use of butterbur for migraines, detailing its benefits, potential side effects, and safety concerns linked with hepatotoxicity.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15623680/ – This study is a randomized controlled trial demonstrating the effectiveness of butterbur in reducing the frequency of migraine attacks, with statistically significant results and discussion on concurrent safety concerns.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15836592/ – An open-label study that addresses the use of butterbur in children and adolescents, reporting a substantial reduction in migraine attack frequency, yet lacking a placebo control.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/butterbur – MSKCC provides an overview of butterbur, addressing its uses, side effects, specific concerns for vulnerable populations, and critical safety information regarding pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
