Butterbur
Natural Healing Herbs
Butterbur was used during the Middle Ages in Europe to treat the plague. The ancient Greeks used its leaves to treat skin ulcers. Native Americans used it to treat headaches and inflammation.
Other Names
This type of plant is called Petasites. The herb is also called sweet coltsfoot, blatterdock, bogshorns, exwort, butterfly dock, butterdock, bog rhubarb, and pestwurz.
Appearance
This plant thrives in wet environments. It resembles rhubarb in appearance. The plant grows small flowers in early spring followed by the growth of very large heart-shaped leaves.
Origins
The plant is native to Europe, Asia and North America.
Parts Used
The leaves, roots and bulbs.
Medicinal Uses
This herb inhibits histamine production and acts as an anti-inflammatory. It is used to treat the following conditions:
You can by this herb and many others at Mountain Rose Herbs.
Side Effects and Warnings
This plant contains chemicals that are toxic to humans. You shouldn't pick some and try to make herbal remedies yourself using it. The remedies containing it from stores have been specially processed to remove the harmful chemicals.
Don't take this herb if you are pregnant or nursing.
It may react with other herbs or medications so consult your doctor before taking it.
Don't take this herb if you have kidney or liver problems.
If you found this information useful, check out my complete listing of herbs at my Herb Index. You can find a listing of ailments and their natural treatments on my Free Home Remedies page.
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