Research

For millennia, the butterbur plant (Petasites hybridus) has been used as an herbal remedy for pain, fever, and spasms. In its natural state, however, butterbur also contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) which are liver toxins. Through a patented process, Petadolex® brand butterbur is purified of PAs, so users enjoy only the safe, beneficial properties of the herb. Thus, today only the Petadolex brand of butterbur can be recommended for preventing migraines as well as for treating headaches and asthma. Its excellent safety profile also makes it the choice for use by children.

Journal – Headache: An extract of butterbur root significantly reduced the frequency of migraine attacks and days-per-month of migraines with no adverse drug reactions.

Albert Einstein College of Medicine: Study finds butterbur offers considerable help in preventing migraine headaches

Journal - Neurology: Researchers theorize that butterbur’s main active ingredients (petasin and isopetasin) inhibit the production of leukotriene, a substance that inflames blood vessels. Without that inflammation, migraines are less likely. Butterbur also inhibits production of histamine.

WebMD: Some research suggests butterbur may prevent swelling and relieve pressure on the blood vessels. Another theory is that it may affect calcium channels, which experts also believe may be related to migraines.

Prevention: The August 2009 issue of Prevention says, “There’s good evidence that butterbur is an effective supplement in treating migraine pain.”

Dr.Weil.com: My colleague Tieraona Lowdog, MD, is enthusiastic about butterbur’s efficacy in migraine prevention. …Though feverfew in the past was thought to help prevent migraines, we now have enough research to say that a benefit has not been proven.

For full details on Petadolex’s FDA-registered manufacturing facilities and additional study information, visit www.ButterburResearch.org.