Purple butterbur root (Petasites hybridus)
Synopsis of purple butterbur root
Purple butterbur root comes from Petasites hybridus, a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. Though it produces striking purple-pink flowers early in the spring, it is the root and rhizome that are traditionally used for medicinal purposes, especially for relieving headaches, migraines, allergies, and respiratory conditions. The plant belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family and contains several active compounds, including petasin and isopetasin, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and analgesic effects.
Purple butterbur root is best known today for its role in migraine prevention. Clinical studies—especially with standardized, PA-free (pyrrolizidine alkaloid-free) extracts like Petadolex®—have shown that butterbur root can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, potentially by inhibiting leukotriene synthesis and relaxing smooth muscle in blood vessels. It’s also used to treat seasonal allergies, sinus congestion, and asthma due to its ability to inhibit histamine and leukotriene release, key mediators of allergic response.
Because natural butterbur contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs)—compounds that can cause liver toxicity—only PA-free extracts are recommended for safe internal use.
Historical Use in Medicine:
Butterbur’s medicinal use dates back to Ancient Greece and medieval Europe, where it was called Petasites after the broad-brimmed hat the leaves resemble. It was used by herbalists to treat plague, fever, asthma, and wounds, with the root often prepared in teas or poultices.
In European folk medicine, butterbur root was considered a "lung herb", used to address coughs, chest tightness, and bronchial spasms, especially in those with chronic respiratory conditions. The root was also applied externally for pain relief and inflammation, such as in cases of gout or arthritis.
Its use as a migraine remedy was re-popularized in the 20th century, when standardized butterbur extracts became available in capsule form. Modern research confirmed many traditional uses, especially its effects on vascular smooth muscle and inflammatory pathways relevant to migraines and allergies.
Purple butterbur root is used for these health conditions
Allergies (respiratory) (Scientific)
Headache (general) (Scientific)
Migraine (Scientific)
Rhinitis (Scientific)
Rhinitis, Allergic (Scientific)
purple butterbur root is used to support these body systems
Bronchials (Scientific)
Sinuses (Scientific)
