The Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii) is a popular ornamental shrub, cultivated for its striking floral display and appeal to pollinators. Originating from China, this deciduous plant is a common sight in many landscapes.
Characteristics of Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii grows as a woody shrub with an arching habit, reaching 6 to 12 feet tall and spreading 4 to 15 feet wide. Its leaves are grayish-green to dark green, lance-shaped, and may have a velvety texture on their undersides. During summer, the plant produces dense, elongated flower clusters (panicles) 4 to 10 inches long. These vibrant flowers come in shades of lilac, purple, pink, white, and yellow, and are fragrant, attracting numerous butterflies and other nectar-feeding insects.
Reported Traditional Uses
Historically, some cultures attributed traditional uses to Buddleja species, including Buddleja davidii. Traditional Chinese medicine reportedly used Buddleja flower buds (“mi meng hua”) for eye complaints like bloodshot eyes, excessive secretions, and light sensitivity. Other traditional practices suggested its use for liver health and bronchial issues. Folkloric accounts also indicate its application for reducing muscle spasms and as a mild diuretic. In ancient China, it was reportedly used for wound healing, with dressings or compresses from its leaves.
Scientific Evidence and Safety
Despite traditional accounts, scientific evidence supporting Buddleja davidii’s medicinal claims for internal human consumption is limited. Modern research identifies specific chemical compounds within the plant, such as glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, and iridoids. Studies on extracts from various Buddleja species explore potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, typically in laboratory settings. For example, research indicates that compounds like verbascoside, found in Buddleja species, may possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity.
However, Buddleja davidii is not considered edible for humans or pets. While not highly toxic, consuming parts of the plant can lead to adverse effects, primarily gastrointestinal upset. Ingestion can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, largely due to the presence of compounds like saponins. Although severe or fatal poisoning is rare, discomfort is possible, and the plant’s primary function remains ornamental rather than as a safe herbal remedy for internal use.
Important Considerations and Warnings
Given the lack of scientific validation for its medicinal uses and the presence of compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress, it is advised not to self-medicate with Butterfly Bush. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before considering any herbal remedies, especially those lacking clear safety profiles. It is important to distinguish Buddleja davidii from other plants that might share “butterfly” in their common name, such as Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa). Unlike Butterfly Bush, Butterfly Weed is a native milkweed species that serves as a crucial host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars, although milkweeds themselves contain cardiac glycosides that are toxic if ingested in large quantities. Finally, Buddleja davidii can be an invasive species in many regions, outcompeting native plants and impacting local ecosystems, despite its attractiveness to adult butterflies.