Burdock
Arctium lappa Family: Compositae
Overview
Burdock is a deeply nutritive and cleansing herb traditionally valued for its supportive actions on the skin, blood, liver, and lymphatic system. With a grounding energy and mineral-rich profile, it is both a food and a medicine. Used internally and externally, it helps detoxify the body, nourish the tissues, and support healthy skin and immune function. Widely naturalized, Burdock is hardy and grows even in poor soil, making it both accessible and resilient.
Traditional Uses:
- Skin conditions, used internally and externally
- Blood cleanser
- Liver support
- Lymphatic cleanser
- Nutritive
Caution:
None
Parts Used:
Roots, seeds, leaves
Applications:
1-2 tsp herb infused in 1 Cup boiling water or 1oz dried herb infused in 1 pint of water, take 1 Cup three times daily; 15-30 drops tincture taken 3 times daily; poultice to treat skin conditions externally
Habitat & Growing Conditions:
Native to Europe and Northern Asia, now is grown worldwide and is a common weed, will grow in poor soil, US zones 2-10. It likes rich soil and some shade, but very hardy and can tolerate poor soil.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Flavors:
Bitter, slightly sweet, cool
Properties:
Key Constituents:
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Iron
- Chromium
- Inulin
- Sesquiterpenes
- Bitter Glycosides
- Flavonoids
- Volatile Oils
Try the following products that include this wonderful herb:
Sources:
The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra p105
Herbs: A Beginner's Guide, Rosemary Gladstar p107
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. If you are under the care of a health care provider and/or taking prescription medication, check with your health care provider before taking any herbal supplement.