Burdock - Arctium lappa

alterative, antidote, anti-phlogistic, anti-tumor, aperient, bitter, bacteriocide, blood purifier, carminative, cholagogue, demulcent, depurative, diaphoretic, diuretic, hepatic, laxative, lithotriptic, stomachic, tonic, vulnerary

Most of us have come into contact with Burdock, or at least its "burs". I remember pulling tons of burs off my clothing after "my explorations" as a child. Little did I know I would one day look back upon this and smile.

Burdock, with its many uses, stands out for me as a nourishing and cleansing herb. It is a key ingredient in both our Detoxification and Skin Ailment formulas, which are available in tea or tincture form. Working on several levels, Burdock increases nutrients coming in and stimulates digestion and bile secretion. Its hallmark is strengthening the natural functions of the whole body. Burdock is a wonderful choice topically for sores, abscesses, insect bites, bruises, burns, hives and ulcers. It has even been used for skin cancer with good success. When treating any skin condition, Burdock comes quickly to mind because it works to restore balance to the affected systems. Treating the cause, not just the symptom, is what herbalism is about. Burdock seed infused oil, is recommended for thinning or loss of hair.

In cases of waste accumulation, Burdock acts to "purify" the blood. By promoting kidney function thus increasing urine flow, it decreases swelling in arthritic joints and assists in the removal of harmful acids due to calcification. Inulin, one of Burdock's key components, is a form of starch that is quite useful in the metabolism of carbohydrates. The root is high in inulin and has traditionally been used for diabetes. Imagine that!! Pregnancy is a wonderful time to use Burdock for it is mineral rich, aids hormone balance, reduces water retention and jaundice in babies. What mother doesn't smile about that:) Provides wonderful lymphatic support for any children and adults alike.

Whether you use this herb as a poultice, tea or tincture, it is a must for everyone's herbal medicine cabinet. Use for all ages. Decoct the root in simmering water for a tea for whole body restoration. Makes quite a team with Red Clover:) If you're really daring try the Burdock pickles receipe from Mary Bove's book An Encyclopedia of Natural Healing for Children and Infants.

Please remember what a wonderful gift laughter is and enjoy some with those you love each day. Herbs Rock:)

Books used for reference include:

Herbal Medicine, Healing & Cancer by Donald Yance
The Little Herb Encylepedia by Jack Ritchason N.D.
Peterson Field Guides- Medicinal Plants and Herbs  Eastern/Centeral
An Encyclopedia of Natural Healing for Children and Infants by Mary Bove N.D.
Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West by Michael Moore
The Holistic Herbal by David Hoffmann

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