Butterbur is a perennial rhizomatous plant from the daisy family (Asteraceae). The correct accepted botanical name is Petasites hybridus (L.) G.Gaertn., B.Mey. & Scherb., while Petasites officinalis Moench is listed as a synonym. The plant grows in moist habitats, along rivers, streams and shaded areas.
Butterbur is a perennial rhizomatous plant from the daisy family (Asteraceae). The correct accepted botanical name is Petasites hybridus (L.) G.Gaertn., B.Mey. & Scherb., while Petasites officinalis Moench is listed as a synonym. The plant grows in moist habitats, along rivers, streams and shaded areas.
The plant develops a fleshy rhizome and flowering stems that appear early in spring before the leaves are fully developed. The leaves are very large, kidney-shaped to heart-shaped, green above and paler, often downy beneath. The flowers are pink to reddish and arranged in numerous flower heads. The root and rhizome are specialised raw materials for professional botanical extracts and controlled formulations.
Basic Information
- Latin name: Petasites hybridus (L.) G.Gaertn., B.Mey. & Scherb.
- Synonym: Petasites officinalis Moench
- Parts used: leaves (Folia Petasites), roots and rhizomes (Rhizoma et Radix Petasites)
- Origin: Bulgaria
- Raw material type: wild-harvested
- Root and rhizome harvest period: August – September
Raw Material Characteristics
The roots and rhizomes are dug out in late summer and early autumn, cleaned, washed and dried quickly in well-ventilated rooms or at temperatures up to 45°C.
Chemical Composition
Butterbur contains mainly sesquiterpene esters, petasin, isopetasin, essential oil, flavonoids, tannins, inulin and pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Suitable for the Production of
- specialised botanical extracts
- professional herbal formulations
- products with controlled use of botanical extracts
- external formulations with processed raw material
- herbal powders
Medicinal Properties and Effects on the Body
Butterbur has the following properties:
- spasmolytic
- anti-inflammatory
- antioxidant
- supportive effect during seasonal discomfort
- active profile in professional botanical formulations
Important Notice
Butterbur contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may be hepatotoxic and have been associated with mutagenic and carcinogenic risk. This raw material is not suitable for self-use or uncontrolled internal use. Professional products require pyrrolizidine alkaloid control and a safety assessment.
Forms Available
- butterbur root (Radix Petasites) – whole dried, crushed, cut to custom size upon request, or powdered
Quality and Documentation
Upon request, a Certificate of Analysis (COA), technical documentation and additional documents may be provided.
Inquiry
Contact us for availability, samples and a quotation based on the required quantities and raw material specifications.
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