The medicinal herb burdock grows as a weed all over the northern hemisphere. MedicinalHerbInfo.org tells us that it has been used for many centuries to treat health problems, first in Europe and Asia, and then in North America. Before using burdock to treat your eczema, you should discuss its use with your health care provider.
Burdock and Eczema
Both the University of Maryland Medical Center and the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center name eczema as one of the traditional uses for burdock. UMMC explains that burdock is made into a paste or salve, then applied topically to the area affected with eczema. There is no information about how well the treatment works, but it is a time-honored use for the herb. Be sure to consult with your health care provider about specific instructions.
Forms Used
According to UMMC, burdock is commonly available as either fresh or dried root or as extracts, powder or decoctions. You would then make any of these forms into a poultice, paste or salve and apply it to your eczema.
Side Effects
The U.S. National Library of Medicine reports that occasionally, when burdock is made into a poultice or other skin treatment, it can cause an allergic skin reaction. Since burdock treatment for eczema is not ingested, there should be no other interactions or side effects. But there has been little or no clinical study of its safety when used topically.
Research
No significant research has been done to show burdock’s success at treating eczema. So far, all the research that has been done with burdock has focused on ingesting the supplements or tea to treat other conditions.
Considerations
Pregnant or breast-feeding women should not ingest burdock, since its effects on the baby have not been determined. The herb acts as a uterine stimulant, so it may be dangerous while pregnant. Anyone with an allergy to chrysanthemums may also be allergic to burdock, since the two plants are closely related. Remember that any new supplements or treatments can cause a dangerous allergic reaction. If you experience hives, a rash or swelling of the tongue or throat, stop the use of burdock right away and contact your health care provider.
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