Butterbur: Why this Common Plant May be an Essential Medicine to Have on Hand
Butterbur belongs to a family of plants that are known for their medicinal benefits, and they have been used for thousands of years to treat a wide-range of ailments and conditions. Remedies can be made from the roots, stems, leaves and flowers by processing them into teas, tinctures, powders or extracts. However, there is also some risk associated with consuming too much of the root or stem if it is not processed properly, as these components can contain elevated concentrations of potentially-toxic compounds.
This is not to say that butterbar is not safe, rather that it’s important to do some research so you can either make or purchase remedies that have been processed properly. That being said, let’s take a look at some of the big benefits that a little bit of butterbar can provide.
Anti-Inflammatory
Butterbur is a powerful anti-inflammatory medicine that can be used on a wide-range of ailments. This can include swelling due to an allergic reaction or injury as well as painful inflammation associated with arthritis or gout as well. Butterbur can also help to lower blood pressure, reduce strain on the circulatory system and improve blood flow as it helps to relax the walls inside our arteries, veins and capillaries.
Migraine Help
The anti-inflammatory properties of butterbur can relax constricted blood vessels in the head that lead to migraines. This can help to reduce the severity of migraines as well as reducing the duration and frequency of attacks. Unfortunately, butterbur isn’t a blanket, sure-fire cure for all migraines since they can be triggered by a number of different causes. However, butterbur is definitely one of the best natural options to experiment with.
Allergy Relief
Another benefit of butterbur is that it acts as a natural histamine blocker. Histamine is the key compound produced by our immune system that triggers allergic reactions. Unfortunately, as many allergy sufferers can attest, anti-allergy medication that contain antihistamines can also produce drowsiness and a long-lasting brain fog. Butterbur may provide you with a safer, natural alternative that addresses the problem without these side-effects. This is an important consideration as the last thing we want in a crisis is something that can cloud our judgment or rob us of our energy and motivation.
Expectorant
Butterbur is known to relax and open up bronchial tubes and airways, and this can make it easier to cough up mucous and phlegm. It can also open up nasal passages and sinus cavities as well. Consequently, anyone who suffers from respiratory ailments or sensitivities, sinus problems or is battling the common cold may benefit from a butterbur remedy.
Mild Muscle and Nerve Relaxant
Butterbur is being increasingly-associated with helping to calm nerves and reduce spasms. This can prove to be a beneficial remedy for anyone who suffers from conditions ranging from irritable bowels to restless limbs, occasional muscle spasms or twitchy nerves.
These are just a few examples of the numerous benefits that butterbur can provide. Take some time to learn more about butterbur. Chances are that you will quickly discover why it represents such an excellent addition to your survival medicine cabinet or first aid kit.
