Burdock

Botanical name:  Arctium lappa

Family: Asteraceae

Other common names:  Greater Burdock, Edible Burdock, Lappa

Part used:  Root

A member of the sunflower plant family, Burdock can grow to over 3 meters in height. The plants purple flowers form in clusters and are covered in sharp hairs, which are often referred to as thorny burrs.

Cultivated for its roots, in its fresh form Burdock is cooked as a vegetable.

Packed with health-boosting vitamins, minerals and nutrients including potassium, magnesium, vitamin B-6 and fibre, Burdock, in its dried form, is well-known for its medicinal benefits, including:

Depurative – Burdock root acts as a natural blood cleanser, inducing lymphatic detoxification, helping to aid the bodies blood circulation and overall health.

Diuretic – By stimulating the kidneys, burdock root works as a natural way to rid your body of excess fluid, cleansing your body of any waste.

Astringent – Many topical skin products contain burdock root for its ability to fight against skin conditions, including acne, eczema and psoriasis. Studies have also shown that burdock root can improve signs of aging.

Prebiotic – Packed with prebiotic fibre, burdock root is well known to improve our bodies digestion, as well as help to lower our blood sugar.

Anti-inflammatory – The anti-inflammatory properties of burdock root can help soothe conditions such as arthritis and tonsillitis.

Antioxidant - The antioxidants found in burdock root have many benefits which include maintaining the health of our liver and bones.

Culinary

Burdock root is a popular ingredient in Chinese and Japanese cooking and is either sautéed, added to salads, or used in tempura dishes.

Burdock is also a traditional flavouring in the herbal drink of dandelion and burdock.

Uses and preparations

Infusion: Burdock root acts as an anti-inflammatory or diuretic and can be infused into a cold or hot water tea.

Tincture: Adding burdock root tincture to water makes it easier to apply to areas of the scalp

Infused oil: An infused burdock root oil can be used to apply directly to the skin.

Soups and smoothies: Soaking burdock root in warm water and then blending it into soups or smoothies is an easy way to enjoy the benefits of this health-inducing herb.

Decoction: Simmering burdock root for up to 30 minutes will result in a very strong tea. It can be drunk hot or cold and can be stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours.

Precautions

Very few side effects have occurred from ingesting burdock root. However, there have been some reports of headaches, fever, rashes and drowsiness.

All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional advice before commencing any treatment.