Burdock root has many traditional uses as an herbal remedy, but research on its effectiveness and safety is limited, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Herbalists have recommended burdock root as a diuretic, for lowering blood sugar, and to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. Because burdock root may have blood-thinning effects, consult your doctor about consuming burdock if you take the anticoagulant medication Coumadin.
Coumadin
Doctors prescribe warfarin, commonly known as the brand Coumadin, to prevent the formation of blood clots and to prevent existing clots from growing larger. Coumadin reduces the clotting ability of the blood. You may benefit from Coumadin if you have an irregular heartbeat, if you have a prosthetic heart valve or if you have recently experienced a heart attack. However, taking Coumadin increases bleeding after a cut or wound, and during surgery. It also increases the risk of internal bleeding.
Burdock and Increased Bleeding
Some animal research suggests that burdock root may increase the risk of bleeding, according to Aetna InteliHealth. No studies with humans have investigated this effect, however, and the risk is only theoretical. If burdock does have this effect, the herb could cause excessive bleeding when combined with Coumadin, or with other anticoagulant drugs such as heparin and clopidogrel.
Considerations
The University of Maryland Medical Center discourages taking large amounts of supplemental burdock because research on its safety is very limited. Many other herbs have been identified as having anticoagulant effects, such as dong quai, garlic, ginkgo and ginseng. Talk to your doctor before you take burdock or any other herbal supplements if you currently use Coumadin. In addition, if you were already using burdock or any other herbal product when you started taking Coumadin, don't stop using the supplements before telling your doctor. Your blood tests have determined your Coumadin dosage, and changing any of your supplement habits can affect your blood clotting time. This, in turn, can make Coumadin more or less effective.
Other Side Effects
In addition to its potential to interact with Coumadin, burdock also may interact with diabetes medications if it reduces blood sugar as claimed. Don't take burdock if you are pregnant, as it may cause birth defects or miscarriage. An allergic reaction to burdock is possible, and is more likely if you are allergic to related plants such as chrysanthemums, daisies or ragweed.
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