Respiratory: Allergies, Allergic rhinitis/runny nose (fewer side effects than antihistamines); asthma; whooping cough (pertussis)

Gastrointestinal: Stomach upset, ulcer prevention, stomach cramps, stimulates appetite

Genitourinary: Urinary tract infections, irritable bladder

Musculoskeletal: Inflammation, pain

Neurologic: Headaches; Migraines (prevention)

Skin: May help enhance wound healing, eczema

Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, and anxiety related to physical pain (somatic symptoms disorder)

Glucose: May help decrease blood sugar

Cholesterol: decreases cholesterol

Infectious Disease: Plague

Other: Insomnia

                                                       *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Belching, headache, itchy eyes, diarrhea, upset stomach, fatigue, and drowsiness. Butterbur can also be liver toxic and possibly a carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) if it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs)—read the label to be sure it is PA-free.

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Allergies to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies. Liver disease. Do not use if you are on Medications metabolized by the CP450 3A4 pathway. (Common examples: carbamazepine [Tegretol], phenobarbital, phenytoin [Dilantin], rifampin)

FORMS: Capsules and tea (must be processed; otherwise, it may be liver toxic).

BRAND RECOMMENDATIONS

Not available at this time.

DOSAGES: As directed

Reported doses - often NOT supported by evidence (reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E, NIH publications and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

50-300 mg daily, depending on the condition

• Allergic rhinitis 8-50 mg by mouth 2 times daily

• Asthma: 25 mg by mouth 2 times daily or 50 mg by mouth 3 times daily

• Migraine prophylaxis: 75-150 qd

• Somatic Symptoms: 90 mg by mouth 2 to 3 times daily

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.