People who suffer from migraines, known as migraineurs, would obviously like to not have to suffer at all.
But if the headache can't be gotten rid of a reduction in the number of headaches experienced would be nice.
And if it could be done without the use of pharmaceuticals what a pleasure.
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) could well be the answer.
A shrub indigenous to Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia, butterbur has been shown to reduce the frequency of migraine headaches by almost half in 80% of those who took part in the trials.
Although butterbur is used in Europe and Asia it is only in the last ten years that doctors in America have started to look at it as a potential herbal remedy for migraineurs.
Placebo controlled, double blind studies over a five year period confirmed the herbs efficacy.
The reduction in the frequency of migraines amongst study subjects varied from 37% to 62%.
And, this was with almost no side effects.
Minor stomach upset was the only side effect reported and that was in a small segment of of both the herb and placebo groups.
Although butterbur is currently considered as safe to take with other migraine remedies you should always consult your healthcare professional before embarking on any new treatment regime.
Crude butterbur contains a substance known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) which are known to be poisonous to humans and especially affects the liver.
So make sure the product you choose is labeled as PA-free.
There is less than 0.
01% concentration of alkaloids in butterbur root which is almost inconsequential.
Generally butterbur treatment programs recommend using the herbal supplement for a maximum period of between four and six months.
Should the frequency of the migraine attacks increase again it is considered to be safe to take it for a further four to six months, however each course of treatment should be separated by a at least a month.