Burdock is a valuable blood purifier and immune system stimulant with the potential to aid liver and gallblader function. It settles an upset stomach and stimulates the production of digestive juices. Burdock has been used to relieve gout since medieval times. When used externally as a wash, burdock is beneficial for skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and canker sores. It also soothes itchy, irritated hemorrhoids.

DESCRIPTION AND PARTS USED

Burdock is often mistaken for a weed. This tall plant reaches a height of three to four feet and has coarse broad leaves and prickly burs that fasten themselves to the clothing of any passerby. Being a biennial, burdock flowers during its second year of growth. The valuable parts of this unattractive herb are the root and seeds.

Herbal BeautyHISTORICAL NOTES

Although burdock is native to Europe and was widely used in the Old World, it never made it into any of the pharmacopoeias of the times. However, it was a favorite of many of the master herbalists, including Parkinson and Culpeper. John Parkinson praised it as a remedy for poisonous bites, including that of the mad dog. Culpeper said the leaves were good for old lesions and sores, being “cooling and moderately drying.” The leaves were often used in poultices. The colonists brought burdock with them to the New World and introduced this herb to the Native Americans.

SCIENTIFIC FINDINGS

Burdock contains biotin, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, volatile oils, sulfur, tannins, three B vitamins, and vitamin E.

TRADITIONAL USE

Internal. Prepare a decoction of burdock root. To help purify the blood in all cases of illness, especially when toxicity exists, take one to three cups of tea daily.

External. Apply to the affected area as needed.

CONSIDERATIONS

Be aware that when taken internally, burdock can interfere with iron absorption.

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Burdock (Arctium lappa)