General Description
Burdock is a biennial plant found throughout much of Europe, Asia,
and North America. There are two main species of burdock: great
burdock (Arctium lappa) and common burdock (Arctium minus). The
former may grow to as much as 3 meters in height, while the latter
species is limited to under 2 meters. The primary characteristic
distinguishing the two species is the leaf stalk, which is solid
in great burdock but hollow in common burdock. Both species have
very large (up to 50 centimeters long) ovate leaves and produce
small purple flowers on burr-like heads. The bristled burrs attach
readily to clothing or animal fur, contributing to the plant's widespread
propagation. Burdock has a very long, thick taproot which contributes
to the plant's reputation as a pesky weed. The root of first-year
burdock is used medicinally.
Health Applications
- Liver health
- Skin health
- Inflammation
History and Traditional Use
The medicinal use of burdock dates back several centuries. Burdock
is mentioned in the writings of Elizabethan herbalist John Gerard,1
as well as in the writings of 17th Century British herbalist Nicholas
Culpeper, who used the seeds for sciatica and kidney stones; the
root for kidney stones, snake bites, and mad dog bites; and the
leaves for burns, ulcers, sores, and bladder pain.2 Now
recommended primarily as a blood purifier, burdock has also been
used to treat skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis.3
Burdock is also a common ingredient in herbal combinations sold
as cancer remedies, such as the "Essiac" and "Hoxsey" formulas.4
Chemical Composition
Burdock root contains polysaccharides (including inulin and mucilages),
caffeic acid derivatives, polyynes, sesquiterpene lactones, and
small amounts of volatile oil of very complex makeup.5
While one study found as many as 14 different polyacetylene compounds
in the fresh root, only traces of these were found in the dried
root.3
Contemporary Uses
Modern herbalists commonly recommend burdock as a diuretic and
"blood purifier." It is also used to promote lung, stomach, kidney,
and liver health.6,7 There is little scientific evidence
to support such use. Studies conducted on laboratory mice suggest
that compounds in burdock root have antioxidant properties that
may help protect liver cells from certain toxins.8,9
However, there are no published studies demonstrating this effect
in human subjects.
Dosage/Toxicity
Dosage recommendations for burdock root vary widely with intended
applications and the form used. Typical recommendations range
from 3 to 6 grams of dried whole root (or equivalent preparations)
per day. There are no known health hazards of side effects associated
with proper administration of burdock root.5 |
