Butterbur

Butterbur is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which also includes daisies and sunflowers. The plant is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and dense clusters of small, pinkish or whitish flowers that bloom in early spring. Butterbur typically grows in damp environments such as riverbanks, marshes, and wet meadows. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its purported benefits in treating ailments like migraines, allergies, and gastrointestinal issues. However, it is important to note that butterbur contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic to the liver if not properly processed. Modern supplements often use butterbur extracts that have been specially treated to remove these harmful compounds.