The herbal butterbur appeared to have no impact on hay fever symptoms, according to a recent study, despite previous evidence showing it to be as effective as conventional medication. The herb is sometimes used to treat seasonal allergies but researchers from the University of Dundee in Scotland, looking at its efficacy on intermittent allergic rhinitis, otherwise known as hay fever, found it was no more effective than placebo at relieving symptoms. Hay fever, an allergy to pollen, is the most common form of allergy in the UK, affecting up to 20 per cent of the population. It affects more than 26 million Americans each year and is expected to affect growing numbers as global warming takes hold. The usual treatment for seasonal allergic rhinitis is antihistamines, which reduce sneezing but are less effective for nasal congestion and may cause sedation and drowsiness. They can also interact with alcohol and decrease driving ability.
