Butterbur for Migraines-Topic Overview
Butterbur for Migraines-Topic Overview
Petasites hybridus plant extract, known as butterbur, has been used for years to prevent migraineheadaches. Studies show it is effective at reducing the frequency of migraines.1
Experts are not sure what causes migraines or how butterbur helps to prevent them. But some research suggests that it 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. More research is needed to find out how butterbur helps prevent migraines.
Migraine Phases
About 1 out of 8 Americans has migraines. They usually begin during the teenage years. After puberty, migraines are more likely to affect girls and women.Experts still aren't sure what causes these headaches. But they seem to involve a wave of unusual activity in brain nerve cells, along with changes in blood flow in the brain.Though migraines can trigger severe pain in the head, they aren't simply headaches. They often also cause other uncomfortable symptoms, such as: Nausea Vomiting...
Read the Migraine Phases article > >
Butterbur is available as a supplement (tablet or capsule). It is marketed under the brand name Petadolex. It is important to find butterbur that has been standardized (which means you receive the same amount of active ingredient in every dose) with guaranteed potency. Do not consume butterbur from the plant itself because it has toxic properties, which are removed in the standardized supplement.
Some people may experience stomach upset, including gas, when they take butterbur. It is not recommended for young children or for women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Be sure to tell your doctor before you take butterbur. Like any drug, it can interact with other medicines you are taking or affect your health in ways you may not be aware of.
Experts are not sure what causes migraines or how butterbur helps to prevent them. But some research suggests that it 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. More research is needed to find out how butterbur helps prevent migraines.
Recommended Related to Migraines/Headaches
Migraine Phases
About 1 out of 8 Americans has migraines. They usually begin during the teenage years. After puberty, migraines are more likely to affect girls and women.Experts still aren't sure what causes these headaches. But they seem to involve a wave of unusual activity in brain nerve cells, along with changes in blood flow in the brain.Though migraines can trigger severe pain in the head, they aren't simply headaches. They often also cause other uncomfortable symptoms, such as: Nausea Vomiting...
Read the Migraine Phases article > >
Butterbur is available as a supplement (tablet or capsule). It is marketed under the brand name Petadolex. It is important to find butterbur that has been standardized (which means you receive the same amount of active ingredient in every dose) with guaranteed potency. Do not consume butterbur from the plant itself because it has toxic properties, which are removed in the standardized supplement.
Some people may experience stomach upset, including gas, when they take butterbur. It is not recommended for young children or for women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Be sure to tell your doctor before you take butterbur. Like any drug, it can interact with other medicines you are taking or affect your health in ways you may not be aware of.
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