Arctium lappa, commonly called burdock, is a prevalent weed known for prickly burrs that get stuck in clothing and pet fur. Burdock root extract is available in numerous herbal and homeopathic preparations as a traditional remedy for many health conditions. Burdock is also an ingredient in Essiac, a purported cancer remedy containing a blend of herbs. Few side effects are associated with burdock when taken at the recommended doses, according to InteliHealth, but certain dangers are possible. Always talk to your doctor before using herbs to treat any condition.
Allergic Reactions
Some people are allergic to burdock root, which can lead to life-threatening anaphylaxis when taking burdock as an herbal remedy. Allergic skin reactions also may occur when handling the plant. Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, also called the Compositae family, have an increased risk of allergic reactions to burdock, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health at its MedlinePlus website. Some of these plants include asters, chrysanthemums, daisies, marigolds and ragweed. In addition, burdock contains pectin, so anyone with a pectin intolerance or allergy should not use this herb.
Hypoglycemia
Because burdock may reduce blood sugar, people taking medication to regulate blood sugar should be cautious about using this herb, advises InteliHealth. These medications include metformin, often used for type 2 diabetes, and insulin, which is necessary for patients with type 1 diabetes. Dosing adjustments may be necessary to prevent low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.
Increased Bleeding
Based on animal research, burdock may increase the risk of abnormal bleeding, as noted by InteliHealth. This is particularly of concern for people taking drugs with anticoagulant or antiplatelet effects, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, warfarin, heparin or clopidogrel. You also may need to stop taking burdock before surgery or dental procedures to prevent excessive bleeding.
Pregnancy Considerations
Research with animals has shown components of burdock to have uterine-stimulant properties, according to MedlinePlus. Pregnant women should not take this herb because it could cause a miscarriage or birth defects.
Increased Estrogen Effects
Although the risk is theoretical, burdock might increase the effects of estrogens, as in birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy, according to InteliHealth. This would also increase side effects of the medication.
Contamination
Because some commercial burdock products have been contaminated with poisonous belladonna, it's important to only buy from reputable manufacturers. Belladonna roots look similar to those of burdock and can be mixed with burdock during harvesting, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, it can be dangerous to harvest wild burdock for herbal remedies due to the risk of mixing belladonna with burdock.
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