The Healing Virtues of Burdock Root

Burdock root has earned its place in natural cures and home remedies because of its effectiveness in treating an assortment of maladies. Although it is available in supplemental form, a person truly interested in natural health would do well to know how to make use of it in its natural form. Through familiarity with various uses of this root, one can determine whether this powerful herb may actually be a good choice for improving individual health.

Scientific Name Arctium lappa

This herb is also commonly referred to as:

• Great burdocks
• Great bur
• Beggar's buttons
• Bardana
• Edible burdock
• Lappa
• Clotbur

Native to Northern Asia and parts of Eastern Europe, this herb grows as high as 9 feet tall with large oval shaped leaves that feature a tapered point. It produces broad blush or pinkish colored flowers that feature violet-reddish florets, which are tubular in shape. The actual root portion is hard, grayish brown or sometimes black, and it is slightly fibrous.

Burdock root tea is one popular way of preparing this herb. However, some also use the herb's seeds, fruit and leaves to create teas or topical treatments.

For centuries herbs have been used in treating a spectrum of illnesses. The following are a few ailments that burdock root uses are sometimes applied to:

• Kidney stones
• Cold
• Fever
• Catarrh
• Skin problems
• Gout
• Stomach ailments
• Rheumatism
• Fluid retention
• Dandruff
• Cancer
• Infection

Generally considered to be safe as an edible or topical herb, it is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, and should not be used to treat illnesses in young children.

Because it may also cause an allergic skin reaction in some, those with plant allergies are advised to avoid its use.

In very rare cases, people have experienced adverse effects from burdock-root tea. A few of these include:

• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Blurred vision
• Disorientation
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Slurred speech
• Incoherent speech
• Dry mouth
• Rash
• Fever
• Inability to produce sweat
• Hyperactivity
• Restlessness
• Decreased coordination

Those who are truly interested in natural cures and home remedies are encouraged to learn more about burdock root and how it can support good overall health. Combined with proper rest, exercise, a healthy diet and other healthy lifestyle choices, herbs such as this one can help safeguard the body against illness.