Botanical Overview
Petasites hybridus, commonly known as Butterbur or Bog rhubarb, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the family Asteraceae native to Europe and Western Asia. The medicinal parts include the root, rhizome, and leaves, which have been traditionally employed in Western herbal medicine.
Energetics
Butterbur is considered cooling and moistening in energetic properties, with a bitter and acrid taste. It primarily acts as a relaxing herb targeting smooth muscle spasms.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antispasmodic
- Smooth muscle relaxant
- Analgesic
- Vasodilator
Indications
Western
- Migraine headaches
- Allergic rhinitis and asthma
- Spasmodic cough and bronchitis
- Nasal congestion
Syndromes
- Headache disorders
- Respiratory spasms
- Allergic conditions
TCM
Not established.
Ayurveda
Not established.
Unani
Not established.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemical constituents include petasin and isopetasin (sesquiterpene esters) which contribute to anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, flavonoids, and potentially toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) which require careful extraction or avoidance for safety.
Dosage & Preparations
- PA-free extract standardized to petasin 50-75 mg daily for migraine prevention
- Tinctures are uncommon due to toxicity
- Herbal teas are generally discouraged because of PA content
Safety & Contraindications
Notable safety concerns include hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids; only PA-free extracts should be used. Contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, and in individuals with liver disease. Potential additive effects with sedatives and antihypertensive medications require caution.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers could be confidently attributed to Petasites hybridus.
Selected References
- Assessment Report on Petasites hybridus L., rhizoma et radix, European Medicines Agency, 2010
- Efficacy and safety of butterbur (Petasites hybridus) root extracts for migraine prophylaxis, Lipton RB et al., 2014
- Petasites hybridus (Butterbur), Plants For A Future
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, World Health Organization, 1999