Herb library

Burdock Root

Arctium lappa

Burdock root, a humble, earthy root gathered in many kitchen gardens, is a long-standing household herb used for skin and digestive support and as a gentle, blood-cleansing tonic in folk practice.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used as a cleansing, blood-supporting root in folk herbal routines, often taken as a daily warm drink during seasonal changes.
• •Traditionally used for skin complaints as part of topical washes, poultices, or compresses applied to stubborn irritations and pimples.
• •A long-standing household remedy for mild digestive sluggishness and poor appetite, traditionally taken as a warm decoction before or with meals.

Simple preparations.

• •Burdock root decoction: Slice 1 ounce (about 28 grams) dried or 3 ounces (about 85 grams) fresh sliced burdock root, cover with 4 cups cold water, bring to a simmer and cook gently for 20 to 30 minutes, strain. Drink 1/2 to 1 cup warm, once or twice daily with food.
• •Burdock root syrup for throat or cough: Make a strong decoction using 2 ounces dried root to 4 cups water simmered 20 to 30 minutes, strain and return to a low heat. Sweeten with honey (not for children under one year) to taste, simmer briefly to form a syrup consistency, cool and store refrigerated. Take 1 to 2 teaspoons as needed.
• •Topical burdock compress: Make a strong decoction as above, soak a clean cloth in the warm liquid, wring out and apply to the affected skin for 15 to 30 minutes once or twice daily. For small stubborn spots, cool the decoction and use as a wash twice daily.

Cautions.

• !May cause skin sensitivity or allergic contact dermatitis in some people, test a small skin patch first before broader use.
• !People with known allergies to the Asteraceae family, such as ragweed, may react to burdock and should approach with caution.
• !Avoid using large internal doses if you have gallbladder obstruction or bile duct problems, and check with your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking regular medications.

Often kept beside.