Ever come across pink or purple flowers with gigantic leaves? A lovely shrub that grows in parts of Asia North America and Southern Europe, this plant goes by the name of Butterbur (botanically called Petasites hybridus) and is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family. Distinctive in its appearance due to super large-sized leaves that were once used to wrap butter during warm weather in the olden days, the shrub became famous and got this unique name.
Also Read: Champa/Plumeria Rubra: Uses, Health Benefits Of This Fragrant Native Flower. Home Remedies Inside
Also known by other uncanny names like sweet-coltsfoot, bog rhubarb, Devil's hat, and pestilence wort, the butterbur plant thrives in wet marshlands, in damp forest soil, or on the sides of rivers. This antiquity, this perennial plant has been used to treat a range of health conditions. Its use can be traced back to centuries when it was used to cure plague or used as a traditional remedial solution to treat an upset stomach. Butterbur was also considered potentially effective in treating Alzheimer's owing to its neuroprotective effects. The extracts of this plant are taken from its large leaves, roots, or bulbs.
Not many know that, the most popular use of butterbur is in the treatment and to soothe symptoms of migraine and many other types of headaches. Wondering how butterbur can alleviate mild to severe pain and even swelling? It is due to two powerful chemicals called Petasin and Isopetasin in it. These components are known to reduce sudden spasms and inflammation and thus it has been used as an effective analgesic since old times and even till date.
Shop From Our Array Of Herbal Supplements To Augment Your Health
Butterbur Side Effects
While most of the time butterbur is considered safe for consumption, still some people may experience the following side effects:
- Itchiness around the eyes
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Difficulty in breathing
Also Read: Echinacea Angustifolia: Health Benefits, Usage, Dosage And Side Effects Of Cone Flowers
Butterbur extracts are sold and available in several forms such as capsules, powders, gels, tinctures, and herbal supplements. So, let us give you a list of 5 everyday health problems that this beautiful-looking herb can be beneficial for.
Foray into the infographic to know more:
