Native to Europe and Northern Asia, burdock is a stout weed with wavy, heart-shaped leaves, purple flowers and burrs that attach to clothing and animal fur. Burdock plays a role in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and in some areas, it is eaten as a vegetable and believed to help improve digestion. Burdock root is similar in appearance to the belladonna root -- a poisonous plant also referred to as "deadly nightshade" -- and thus you should not attempt to collect burdock root on your own. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking burdock root as an herbal supplement.
Herbal Supplement
As an herbal supplement, burdock root has traditionally been used as a diuretic and to remove toxins from the blood. It has also been used topically to treat skin problems such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, burdock was used in combination with other herbs to treat colds and sore throats. Additional reported uses of burdock include treating anorexia, gout, cancer and high blood sugar. While researchers are unsure of which chemical components of burdock root causes its healing effects, they believe they may possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. More studies are needed to determine burdock root's active ingredients and effectiveness for treating these conditions.
Vegetable
Traditionally used to help improve digestion, burdock root is eaten as a vegetable in Japan and parts of Europe. Burdock root is made up of carbohydrates, fatty oils, volatile oils, plant sterols and tannins, and contains inulin, a natural dietary fiber. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, while there is little information about burdock root's effects as an herbal supplement, eating the root as a vegetable is generally considered safe.
Supplement Dosage
Children should not use burdock root supplements unless directed by a doctor. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, adults may take one to two grams of burdock capsules three times per day. To prepare burdock root tea, steep two to six grams of root in two cups of water, three times per day. To prepare a tea from dried burdock root, steep two to six grams of dried root in 2/3 cup of water for 10 to 15 minutes, strain the mixture, and drink three times per day. To use dried burdock root for topical application, create a poultice by soaking a cloth in the tea, allow the cloth to cool, and then place it on the affected area. Do not use the poultice on open wounds.
Supplement Warnings
Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid burdock root as its safety for children and infants is unknown. Burdock root may produce diuretic effects and should not be taken if you are dehydrated. As a member of the daisy family, burdock root may cause allergic reactions in those allergic to daisies, chrysanthemums or ragweed. In the past, cases of burdock root tea contamination with belladonna have been reported. Exercise caution when purchasing burdock root.
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