Burdock
Introduction
This fact sheet provides essential information about burdock, a plant native to Europe and Northern Asia, which has also naturalized in the United States. Burdock is widely cultivated in Eastern Europe, particularly in countries such as former Yugoslavia, Poland, Bulgaria, and Hungary. It is classified as a perennial or biennial herb.
Common Names
- Burdock
- Bardana
- Beggar’s Buttons
- Clotbur
- Edible Burdock
- Great Bur
- Great Burdocks
- Lappa
- Bur Oil
Latin Name
- Arctium lappa
Uses
- Colds
- Catarrh
- Gout
- Rheumatism
- Stomach ailments
- Acts as a diuretic, diaphoretic, and laxative
- Externally used for skin problems such as acne, eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis
- Burdock root oil extract (Bur oil) is popular in Europe for scalp treatment, improving hair strength, shine, and body, as well as combating dandruff and hair loss
Administration
In traditional medicine, the fruits, seeds, roots, and leaves of burdock have been used in decoctions or teas.
Scientific Evidence
- Burdock root is commonly consumed as food in Asia.
- Research has reported various biological activities of burdock, including antipyretic, antimicrobial, antitumor, diuretic, and diaphoretic properties.
Side Effects and Cautions
- Burdock is generally considered safe and edible. However, there have been reports of poisoning from burdock root tea, which can cause symptoms such as blurred vision, headache, drowsiness, slurred speech, loss of coordination, incoherent speech, restlessness, hallucinations, hyperactivity, seizures, disorientation, flushing, dryness of the mouth and nose, rash, lack of sweating, and fever. These effects are typically due to adulteration with atropine-containing plants.
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