All herbs
Traditional part

Butterbur

Petasites hybridus

Stronger human evidenceHigh caution — significant risksInteractions: ModeratePregnancy: Avoid
Benefits summary

PA-free extracts have decent evidence for migraine prevention and allergic rhinitis.

Traditional & historical use

Traditional use (european-folk): PA-free extracts have decent evidence for migraine prevention and allergic rhinitis.

Modern claims

PA-free extracts have decent evidence for migraine prevention and allergic rhinitis.

How it may work

Active constituents are under study; evidence ranges from traditional use to preliminary human trials.

Benefit–risk at a glance
Potential benefits
  • PA-free extracts have decent evidence for migraine prevention and allergic rhinitis.
Most credible evidence

Evidence strength: stronger human.

Key uncertainties
  • See the evidence level above
Known risks
  • Raw butterbur contains liver-toxic, cancer-causing alkaloids — only use certified PA-free products.
Who should avoid
  • Non-PA-free products
  • Liver disease
  • Ragweed allergy
Risks

Raw butterbur contains liver-toxic, cancer-causing alkaloids — only use certified PA-free products.

Interactions

May interact with prescription medications — review with a clinician if you take any.

Special populations

Use caution in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children, and with chronic disease unless cleared by a clinician.

Sourcing & growing

Choose reputable, tested suppliers; correct identification is essential for wild-harvested plants.

Dr. Bull's read

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