What is butterbur, PA free?
The butterbur plant contains substances called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). PAs can damage the liver and lungs and may cause cancer. Only butterbur products that have been processed to remove PAs and are labeled or certified as PA-free should be considered for use. Bottom Line on Butterbur While no drug interactions are currently known, be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist about any other medicines or supplements you’re taking before you take butterbur. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take butterbur because it could cause birth defects or liver damage.Several studies, including studies of children and adolescents, have reported that PA-free butterbur products seem to be safe when taken by mouth for up to 16 weeks. However, there have been rare cases of liver injury associated with products that were reported to be PA-free.
What is butterbur extract used for?
Butterbur is so named because its large leaves were used to wrap butter for storage. Butterbur extracts have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and purported uses were for plague, asthma, gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses and cancer. Butter extract is used to replace butter in recipes, lending a rich and creamy flavor to your dish without the added calories. Butter extract can be used in crepes, pancakes, sauces, cookies, waffles, bakes and more.