Overview
Petasites hybridus extract for migraine prophylaxis and allergic rhinitis.
- Whole dried plant material (root, leaf, flower, or aerial parts depending on the species)
- Standardized hydroethanolic or aqueous extract (capsule, tincture, or tea)
- Powdered traditional preparation used in Ayurvedic, TCM, or Western herbal practice
- Standardized extract capsule
- Liquid tincture (alcohol or glycerin)
- Powdered whole herb
- Traditional decoction or tea
Mechanism of action
Inhibits leukotriene synthesis and calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle.
- · Inhibits leukotriene synthesis
- · calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle
Effects on the body
Organ system effects
Butterbur acts on central nervous system targets implicated in attention, memory, and neuroprotection.
Butterbur modulates innate and adaptive immune responses, including cytokine signaling and barrier function.
Evidence-based benefits
Reduces migraine frequency
Moderate evidencePotential side effects
- · GI upset
- · Belching
Drug interactions
Safety & non-supplemental interactions
Educational summary — always confirm with your clinician or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or combining with prescription therapy.
- ·Pregnant or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- ·Children under 18 (unless directed by a clinician)
- ·Autoimmune disease (theoretical immune activation)
- ·Immunosuppressants
Supplement interactions
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)Membrane fluidity and neuronal signaling support.
- Alpha-GPC or CDP-cholineProvides choline substrate for acetylcholine synthesis.
- Vitamin D3 + K2Foundational immune modulation.
No specific avoidances listed.
Dosing & bioavailability
Where to buy
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Amazon code supplementsch-20 is auto-applied at checkout. We don't endorse specific brands; verify third-party testing (USP, NSF, Informed Sport) before purchase.
Third-party testedIndependently verified Butterbur — look for USP, NSF, or Informed Sport seals on the label for purity and dose accuracy.Butterbur third party tested NSF
CapsulesPre-measured Butterbur capsules — easiest for travel and consistent daily dosing without scoops or scales.Butterbur capsules
PowderBulk unflavored Butterbur powder — best cost-per-gram and flexible dosing for stacking or mixing into drinks.Butterbur powder unflavored
Best sellersMost-purchased Butterbur products on Amazon — a quick way to see what's reviewed widely before you commit.Butterbur best sellerScientific evidence8Show studiesHide studies
Migraine prevention with Petasites
Lipton RB, et al.
245 migraine patients on 75 mg BID Petasites
45% reduction in migraine frequency vs placebo.
PubMed: Butterbur — Reduces migraine frequency
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Google Scholar: Butterbur — clinical evidence
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