Evidence supporting the use of: Butterbur
For the body system: Bronchials
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) has a long history of traditional use for respiratory issues, but its use to support the bronchial system—especially in the context of asthma and allergic rhinitis—has also been investigated in scientific studies. Extracts of butterbur, particularly those standardized to contain petasin and isopetasin and free from toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), have shown anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects in preclinical studies. Several randomized controlled trials suggest that butterbur extract can reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis and may be as effective as some antihistamines. For asthma, evidence is less robust but includes a small number of human trials that indicate potential benefit in reducing bronchial hyperreactivity and improving symptoms.
However, the quality of evidence is moderate. Most clinical studies are small, short-term, and focus on allergic symptoms rather than direct bronchial support in chronic respiratory diseases. Nonetheless, the anti-inflammatory properties of butterbur and its observed effects on airway reactivity provide a scientific rationale for its use in supporting bronchial health, especially in allergic contexts. Safety concerns remain regarding the presence of PAs in unprocessed butterbur, so only PA-free extracts are recommended. Overall, while not conclusive, there is scientific evidence supporting butterbur's use for the bronchial system, justifying a mid-level rating.
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