What Is Burdock Root?

Burdock, in many places considered a weed, is an herb used for medicine and cooking that can be found growing in China, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, New Zealand, the USA, Canada, and in various countries in Europe. It has tiny pinkish-purple flowers.

Burdock root can provide benefits when used as either a food or a medicine. It is prized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western herbalism for its potent and gentle cleansing properties. Burdock works well both on its own, and combined with other herbs.

How to Use Burdock Root (Common Uses)

Burdock root can be taken internally as a powder, tea, decoction, in capsules, and as an extract. Used topically as a wash, poultice, or infused oil. Visit our herbal blog for more ideas about how to use burdock root, and to explore its rich history of use as an ingredient in foods and beverages.

Medicinal Uses and Benefits of Burdock Root

Burdock is a gentle detoxifier and lymphatic cleanser, used primarily for skin and digestive issues. It can be found as an ingredient in our Cooling Detox Tea.

Burdock is highly regarded for its ability to bring circulation to the skin and can help to clear acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

As a lymphatic cleanser, burdock root can be beneficial for conditions such as lymphedema and enlarged lymph nodes.

Due to its mild antibacterial properties, burdock root can be especially beneficial when used topically.

Burdock root may be beneficial in helping to reduce symptoms of the common cold. It may act as an immune system modulator, and can be found in many herbalist’s formulas for aiding in cancer support.

Burdock is unique in its ability to effectively clean the blood and liver without causing the nausea and discomfort characteristic to many stronger detoxifying herbs. It produces a mild diuretic effect, and can help to stimulate bowel movements.

Burdock root is also high in inulin, a beneficial type of dietary fiber that acts as a prebiotic food source for healthy gut flora.

The mild bitter flavor present in burdock root comes primarily from a naturally occuring compound called arctopicrin. As a bitter herb, burdock helps to stimulate digestion. It also provides mucilage to help support colon health.

When roasted, dried burdock root makes an excellent coffee alternative or addition.

Burdock root works best when taken frequently and in small quantities.

Active Constituents in Burdock Root

Polyacetylene compounds, bitter glycoside (arctin), lignans, polyphenolic acids (caffeic, chlorogenic), volatile acids (acetic, butyric, isovaleric), inulin, fructooligosaccharides.

Notable Facts About Burdock Root

Burdock root is energetically feminine and is associated the planet Venus and the element of water.

The root is sometimes worn as an amulet for energetic cleansing and protection.

In Japanese cuisine, burdock root is called ‘gobo’ and eaten as a vegetable.