What Are the Benefits of Burdock Root?

What Are the Benefits of Burdock Root?
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Sweet to the taste, approximately three feet in height and traditionally used to treat minor health disorders and as a means to lower blood toxicity, burdock root is an herbal medicine found in Europe and Asia while used by thousands in many different countries, according to NaturalHerbsGuide.com. Traditional Chinese healers have used burdock root in conjunction with other medicines for the treatment of the common cold, measles and even throat pain.

Natural Laxative

Another benefit that supplement users of burdock root can count on is the herb's natural laxative qualities. According to NaturalHerbsGuide.com, burdock root contains active ingredients such as calcium, tannins, resin and iron, which have been known to be effective dietary supplements in promoting regularity with the digestive system. The herb can be taken in pill form or as a powder mixed with a beverage (such as tea), and is available at most supermarkets and drug stores.

Blood Sugar Regulation

For supplement users looking for an alternative means to regulate blood sugar levels as opposed to taking prescription medication, researchers suggest that burdock root has natural qualities that may eventually prove helpful. According to the University of Virginia Health System, studies with lab animals have shown that burdock root is able to lower blood sugar levels, insinuating that there is a direct link between insulin levels and the herbal supplement. Researchers at the Health System suggest that burdock can be taken as a supplement in whole or in the form of burdock extract. Though no direct studies with human subjects have been documented, studies with burdock and blood sugar levels continue to show promise in the regulation of similar blood disorders.

Healing Skin Problems

Burdock root has natural skin healing properties. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it has blood-purifying qualities that can serve as a topical remedy for skin problems such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. Topical creams containing burdock extract are available for these skin problems as well as minor wound care, such as scrapes and burns. Creams can be applied to the affected area two to three times daily until the condition improves.

References

Article reviewed by Anton Alden Last updated on: Apr 27, 2010

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