Benefits Of "Burdock" Root
Benefits Of “Burdock” Root
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| Benefits | Studies | Chemical & Nutrient Content |
Growing | Suggestions |
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Genus: Arctium
Species: A. lappa Also known as: Great burdock, burr Parts used: Roots, leaves, seeds |
This herb has been used for centuries as a blood purifier; clearing the blood stream of some toxins, and as a diuretic. It is a traditional herb used for many ailments. Also used as a topical remedy for skin problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.
Burdock root oil extract, also called burr oil is popular in Europe as a scalp treatment. Applied to improve hair strength, shine, body, and to help reverse scalp conditions, such as dandruff and to combat hair loss. It contains nutrients required to maintain a healthy scalp and promote natural hair growth.
Burdock root is quite effective in treating dry and flaky skin disorders especially when caused by a general system imbalance. It stimulates digestive juices and bile secretion making it useful in treating anorexia nervosa, digestion, and appetite problems. It also aids liver function and is used to heal cystitis.
STUDIES:
German researchers have discovered “fresh” burdock root to contain chemicals (polyacetylenes) that kill disease causing bacteria and fungi, which could explain the herbs traditional use against ringworm, fungal infections and several bacterial infections.
Burdock has also been used around the world as a cancer treatment. Several studies show that certain substances do, infact, have anti-tumor activity.
It decreases mutations in cells exposed to mutation causing chemicals. Most substances that cause genetic mutations also cause cancer. No doubt, cancer requires professional care. If you would like to try burdock in addition to your standard therapy, do so in consultation with your physician.
As with all herbal nutrition supplements, burdock supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.
The medicine is in the root of herb. The root has brown bark with white spongy, fibrous interior that becomes hard when dried. The stem is multi-branched with long, egg shaped leaves. Each branch is topped with a bristled flower which produces burrs.
CHEMICAL & NUTRIENT CONTENTS:
Burdock contains a high amount of vitamin C and iron. It contains 12% protein, 70% carbohydrate, some vitamin A, B1, B6, B12, E, arctin, biotin, inulin, manganese, volatile oils, tannins, PABA, and small amounts of sulfur, silicon, copper, iodine and zinc.
GROWING:
This herb grows easily from seeds planted in spring. Space the seedlings 6 inches apart. It prefers moist, rich, deeply cultivated soil and full sun.
Other herbs with alterative actions include alfalfa, aloe vera, angelica, black cohosh, buckthorn, cascara sagrada, chaparral, comfrey, dandelion, dong quai, gotu kola, kelp, licorice, psyllium, red raspberry, rhubarb, stinging nettle, and white willow.
BURDOCK
