Burdock has a long history of use for a wide variety of health ailments. Burdock, also known by the common names gobo and cockle bur and the Latin name Arctium lappa, is a thistle plant native to Europe and Asia, and it now grows throughout the Japan and the United States. The root, leaves and seeds are used to make medicine. Before taking burdock to treat a health condition, consult with a qualified, botanically trained health care professional about form, dosage and safety.
Skin Conditions
Burdock is used for skin problems, such as abscesses, boils, acne, eczema and psoriasis. Herbalists say burdock is especially useful in skin conditions that are dry and scaly or that result from poor blood circulation. Part of burdock's effectiveness on skin conditions results from its anti-microbial anti-inflammatory properties. Burdock may be applied topically as a poultice or taken internally as a tea, liquid extract or capsule.
Infections
Burdock may be helpful for various infections. It helps to relieve colds, fever, sore throat and cough. Also, according to Dr. William Mitchell, a naturopathic physician and author of "Plant Medicine in Practice: Using the Teachings of Dr. John Bastyr," burdock is an excellent remedy for infections of the glandular system. This includes mononucleosis, a infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus that comes with fatigue, weakness, sore throat, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes. Burdock contains lignans, polyacetylenes and organic acids that stimulate the immune system.
Diabetes
Burdock helps to lower blood sugar, which can be helpful for individuals with diabetes or pre-diabetes. It is also thought to help remove fat tissue in individuals with perpetually high blood sugar levels. Because of burdock's effects on blood sugar, it should not be combined with insulin, unless under the supervision of a doctor.
Arthritis
Burdock is used to treat various forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis. The different forms of arthritis have unique underlying causes, but all result in joint stiffness and pain. Burdock's usefulness in arthritis is thought to result from its anti-inflammatory properties.
Indigestion
Burdock may be helpful for indigestion, as well as other digestive complaints, especially those related to suboptimal liver or gallbladder function. Burdock gently stimulates digestive function, enhancing the digestion of food and elimination of toxins. Burdock root contains high levels of inulin and mucilage, which contributes to its soothing effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Burdock may also be helpful for ulcers. Burdock's actions are mild, and it may be taken for long periods. In addition to its concentrated use as a medicine, burdock may also be eaten as a vegetable.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Burdock
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Burdock
- "Plant Medicine in Practice: Using the Teachings of John Bastyr"; William A. Mitchell, Jr., N.D.; 2003
- "Bastyr Materia Medica"; Bastyr University Department of Botanical Medicine
- "Alterative Materia Medica"; Jill Stansbury, N.D.; National College of Natural Medicine
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