Burdock, scientifically known as Arcticum lappa, is a medicinal herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, especially as a detoxifying agent and for skin inflammatory conditions, according to University of Maryland, Medical Center. Due to its ability to reduce inflammation, some research studies also evaluated the benefits of using burdock for allergies as well. Although some positive findings have been recorded, larger studies are needed to fully confirm burdock's ability to help allergy sufferers. If you suffer suffer from allergies and consider taking natural supplements like burdock root, you should first talk to your health care provider.
Key Active Ingredients
Burdock is a common weed that produces purple flowers. Burdock has volatile oils, carbohydrates, fatty oils, tannins and plant sterols. The root of this herb has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Research
In a report in the February 2011 issue of "Clinical and Molecular Allergy," researchers told of studying the anti-allergenic effects of burdock root. The authors found that a standardized extract from burdock root had improved inflammatory and allergic markers, thus having potential in managing allergic diseases, including atopic dermatitis, a chronic allergic condition affecting the skin.
Available Forms & Dosage
Burdock root is sold as fresh or dried root, tinctures or fluid extracts, and as over-the-counter supplements.
A typical daily dose for adults is 1 to 2 g in capsules three times daily. For the dried root, 2 to 6 g should be mixed with 150 ml of water. You can drink this mixture up to three times daily. For the fluid extract, 2 to 8 ml should be taken not more than 3 times daily.
These dosages may be adjusted by your health care provider based on the severity of your symptoms and whether you have other associated medical conditions with allergies.
Side Effects and Safety Issues
Burdock may harm a fetus and therefore pregnant women should not take it. People allergic to daisies and ragweed should not use burdock root as this supplement may cause allergic reactions.
There is a risk that burdock root herbs may be contaminated with belladonna, which is poisonous, UMMC reports. Therefore you should choose a high-quality, standardized supplement from a reputable company.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to find out optimal dosage of burdock root for your condition. Keep in mind that burdock root does not replace conventional anti-allergy drugs and is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat allergies.
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