Journal

Butterbur

July 2, 2026 · Omnia Sana
Petasites hybridus
Family: Asteraceae  ·  Parts used: Root, rhizome and leaf (standardised PA-free extract)  ·  Also known as: Bog rhubarb, Pestilence wort, Umbrella plant

Key actions

Antihistaminic / antiallergicAntispasmodicBronchodilator / anti-asthmatic

Traditional & clinical uses, by strength of evidence

  • Allergy / hay feverGood
  • FeverGood
  • HeadacheModerate
  • MigraineModerate
  • AsthmaLimited
  • CoughTraditional
  • Menstrual crampsTraditional
  • Muscle spasmTraditional

Selected studies & references

ReviewA review on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of butterbur species (Petasites L.) (2022)
ReviewThe medical plant butterbur (Petasites): analytical and physiological (re)view (2013)
ReviewHerbal medicines for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review (2007)
ReviewA newly developed extract (Ze 339) from butterbur (Petasites hybridus L.) is clinically efficient in allergic rhinitis (hay fever) (2003)
ReviewThe common butterbur (Petasites hybridus)–portrait of a medicinal herb (2003)
ReviewMonograph: Petasites hybridus (2001)
RctPetasites hybridus root (butterbur) is an effective preventive treatment for migraine (2004)
RctAn extract of Petasites hybridus is effective in the prophylaxis of migraine (2000)

All 13 studies in the Knowledge Finder →

Educational use only. This profile summarises traditional and scientific sources for reference. It is not medical advice and not a substitute for a qualified practitioner. Some plants carry safety cautions and drug interactions — always check before use.

← Explore plants by symptom

← Back to Journal
← PreviousNext →

Powered by
►
Necessary cookies enable essential site features like secure log-ins and consent preference adjustments. They do not store personal data.
None
►
Functional cookies support features like content sharing on social media, collecting feedback, and enabling third-party tools.
None
►
Analytical cookies track visitor interactions, providing insights on metrics like visitor count, bounce rate, and traffic sources.
None
►
Advertisement cookies deliver personalized ads based on your previous visits and analyze the effectiveness of ad campaigns.
None
Powered by