Milk thistle and burdock are two plants that have a long history of use as medicinal herbs. Their uses are vastly different, but they both have anti-cancer properties. Both plants have strong stems, grow tall and produce a purple flower. Milk thistle has sharp spines on the stem and grows and spreads quickly. While burdock is also considered a weed, it produces sharp burrs that attach to clothing and animal fur.
History
Milk thistle has been used as a medicine for at least 2,000 years, according to the National Cancer Institute. Normally, it is used for liver conditions but was also suggested to treat snake bites in 23 A.D. Eclectic physicians of the late 1800s believed milk thistle could clear congestion located in the liver, spleen and kidneys. Burdock has been used around the globe for hundreds of years as a treatment for a wide variety of conditions, including in China, Japan, and by native Americans, who used it to help women in labor.
Identification
Milk thistle is native to the area around the Mediterranean and thrives in sunny, dry areas. It can grow 4 to 10 feet tall, with spiny stems and wide leaves that have a white or milky vein. The flowers are maroon in color and produce a hard, shiny brown fruit that is spotted. This plant grows quickly and easily spreads. Burdock is native to northern Asia and Europe, but grows worldwide, including in the United States where it is commonly referred to as a weed. This member of the daisy family has strong stems that grow 3 to 4 feet tall. It has green, heart shaped leaves that appear wavy and have a white color to the underside. The flowers are purple, which bloom from June to October, and have burs that attach to clothing and animal fur.
Herbal Uses
Herbalist Michael Tierra states that milk thistle is a liver protectant and rejuvinator. He suggests using an extract from the seeds to treat liver cirrhosis and hepatitis A and B. Regaring burdock, he suggests using the crushed seeds in a decoction to treat skin irritations, urinary disorders and to purify the blood. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, burdock root is commonly used by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat sore throats. Burdock contains inulin, a dietary fiber, which may help with digestion.
Cancer
According to the National Cancer Institute, milk thistle contains silymarin, which is a strong anti-oxidant that can improve cellular membranes, stimulate the growth of new liver tissue and prevent certain cancer cells from growing. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states that burdock root is traditionally used in cancer treatment, HIV treatment, and for diabetes. An article published in the Oct. 28, 2010 issue of "Inflammopharmacology," presented by researchers at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, stated that burdock root contained anti-oxidants and the seeds have a strong inhibitory effect on tumor growth, especially pancreatic carcinoma.
Cautions
The German Commission E states that when milk thistle is used within the recommended dose, there are no reported side effects. There have been some rare cases when high doses have caused mild allergic reactions or a laxative effect. Burdock root may cause an allergic reaction to those who are allergic to daisies, chrysanthemums or ragweed. Burdock has a diuretic effect and should not be taken by people already using a diuretic or are dehydrated. Burdock root may interact with diabetic medications. The plant closely resembles belladonna, which is highly toxic, and should only be purchased from reputable sources; do not try to harvest it yourself. Before taking any herb or supplement, you should first talk with your physician.
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