Research has shown that butterbur is an effective remedy for migraines. This supplement prevents migraines as well as prescription drugs, but without the side effects.
The common butterbur (Petasites hybridus) is a perennial plant that is found in Europe and northern Asia. Its pale pink flowers blossom in early spring. The source for the migraine remedy is the extract of the butterbur root.
Traditional medications recommended by doctors for migraines entail the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including aspiring and ibuprofen. Prescription drugs, such as Imitrex, are often required. Prescription medications often induce nausea, muscle weakness, dizziness and drowsiness. The worst part is that these drugs don’t prevent the migraine from recurring the following day.
Some doctors prescribe medications that prevent migraines, but these have their own side effects as well. The antidepressant Amitriptyline, for example, causes weight gain.
In comparison, the extract of the butterbur root is prevents migraines with no side effects. Butterbur is a natural anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant dietary supplement. The effective components of butterbur are isopetasin, oxopetasin and petasin. These active ingredients of butterbur prevent migraines by triggering the smooth muscle lining of the cerebral blood vessel walls to relax. Furthermore, the petasins of butterbur are anti-inflammatory agents.
Clinical studies have shown that a dosage of 50-75 mg of butterbur twice a day over four months effectively prevents migraines. Therefore, it is advisable that any homeopathic remedy for migraines should contain this valuable ingredient.
