What are the benefits of taking butterbur?
Butterbur has been used for health purposes for many centuries. In the Middle Ages, the odor and smoke from burning butterbur roots were thought to fight plague. Today, butterbur is promoted as a dietary supplement for migraine, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and other conditions. Butterbur is a popular herbal product derived from the rhizomes and stems of the perennial butterbur bush (Petasites hybridus), a plant native to Europe. Butterbur is so named because its large leaves were used to wrap butter for storage.Butterbur has been used for health purposes for many centuries. In the Middle Ages, the odor and smoke from burning butterbur roots were thought to fight plague. Today, butterbur is promoted as a dietary supplement for migraine, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and other conditions.
When should I take butterbur?
Butterbur is used for migraine, hay fever, asthma, and many other conditions, but there is no strong scientific evidence to support most of these uses. Some butterbur products may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). When taken by mouth: Butterbur products that do not contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are possibly safe when used for up to 16 weeks. Side effects might include belching, headache, itchy eyes, diarrhea, upset stomach, and drowsiness.They should be taken by mouth in the recommended doses for 12 to 16 weeks. However, it is not known if using butterbur for a long period of time could cause problems. Most people tolerate butterbur well, but it may cause side effects in some people. Side effects most often affect those who are allergic to plants.For migraine prevention, dosages of 50–150 mg daily taken by mouth have been used. Note that if you use butterbur on a daily basis, it is important to monitor for signs of liver toxicity. For allergic rhinitis, 50 mg of butterbur extract two to three times daily seems to have some benefit.
Does butterbur help anxiety?
Herbal remedies such as butterbur, valerian, passion flower and lemon balm can be used to relieve general nervousness and restlessness, stress-related sleep disorders and test anxiety. Lavender One study found that lavender oil aromatherapy calmed the nervous system—lowering blood pressure, heart rate, and skin temperature as well as changing brain waves to a more relaxed state. Lavender can also help with mild insomnia and provide better quality of sleep.Research shows that using lavender oil can help reduce anxiety levels similarly to anti-anxiety medications like lorazepam. Bergamot: This essential oil, with its sweet orange scent, can effectively reduce anxiety and stress by lowering cortisol levels.