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Is it helpful to use butterbur for migraines? Does it really work? There exist good scientific evidences to show that taking butterbur can prevent migraine attacks.
For example, one clinical study showed that butterbur extracts were effective in preventing migraines when taken over a 12 week period. In another study, migraine sufferers taking butterbur reduced the number of migraine attacks by 56%. Moreover, they had less severe headaches and they lasted much shorter compared to the group taking the placebo (sugar pill). Butterbur is worth considering but it is only one of many natural remedies for migraines that work well in preventiong and treatment. 
Evidence of Benefits (What's this?)
Do we know how it works? The main active ingredients found in
butterbur are petasin and isopentasin. These chemicals reduce spasms of
the blood vessels. This antispasm benefit might explain why butterbur can be used to prevent migraine headaches.
They also block the production of inflammatory chemicals called leukotrienes. This is known to be helpful in asthma and allergies.It may also be useful for treating migraines. Are there any safety issues on using butterbur for migraines? Butterbur is known to contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA). Some of these chemicals are toxic and will cause liver damage. Use the butterbur leaf instead of the root since it has less of them. But the best option is to buy from companies which certify that their preparations are free of PA. An example of a product certified to be free of PA is Petadolex (but there are other brands as well). What are some side effects of butterbur? Although
most people will not experience many side effects, they may include
diarrhea, asthma, stomach discomfort, headache, allergic reactions like
rash and drowsiness. Are there OTHER effective migraine remedies? Absolutely! See the
article on Migraine Remedies
to discover many natural remedies and supplements that work.
Suggested Doses and Dosage Formulations Most research studies used 50 to 75 mg
of standardized extracts of butterbur. Take twice daily for up to four
months. The brand Petadolex was commonly used.
Fresh Leaves
Use 1.2 to 2 grams of the raw leaves
and steep for 10 to 15 minutes in 250 mL of water. Removed the leaves
and drink up to four times daily.
Fluid Extracts (1:2)
Take 1 to 3 mL three times daily.
Natural and Homeopathic Remedies for Migraines
Get more information on all the natural solutions to treating migraine headaches and getting pain relief See Migraine Cures
to get a series of easy to understand articles on treating migraines
using diet, lifestyle changes and natural
remedies.
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