Burdock Arctium Lappa Is antibacterial, antifungal, carminative, diuretic, hypoglycemic, stomachic and blood purifier. Greater burdock is known to kill cancer cells by flushing away toxins. Cures skin disease and helps to improve digestion and lower blood sugar in diabetics. It’s been used for centuries by native Americans for several ailments and medicines that western cultures are still testing for.
“Herbal detox has been known for managing diabetes”
Burdock may be considered a weed in some states (due to its ability to spread), but the herb has been employed for centuries as a remedy for a wide range of ailments. In traditional medicine, burdock fruits, seeds, roots, and leaves have been used as decoctions or teas for colds, gout, rheumatism, stomach ailments, and cancer, as well as used to promote urination, increase sweating, and facilitate bowel movements. It’s also been promoted as an aphrodisiac.
Though all aspects of the plant are used, it’s the carrot-shaped white root—which can grow to two feet and contains the greatest amount of nutrients—that seems to possess most of the purported healing power of burdock. The root contains numerous phytochemicals, including lignans, triterpenoids, and polyacetylenes, some of which have been shown to promote blood circulation (hence its reputation as a detoxifying agent) and are linked to antidiabetic properties. Other components include flavonoids that have exhibited cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, which may explain its use both internally and externally for many conditions of the skin, such as acne, burns, boils, and eczema. Research shows that burdock root, which is commonly eaten in Japan, some parts of Europe, as well as increasingly in the U.S., is also a source of inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber that feeds the good bacteria in the large intestine to improve digestion.
Health Benefits
Few scientific studies have explored burdock’s health effects, and though some of the research is promising, it should be considered preliminary. Here’s a rundown on what is known.
Diabetes
In a 2017 study, diabetic mice pretreated with 200 milligrams and 300 milligrams of burdock root extract for a month increased the levels of insulin and also helped control body weight. Researchers also reported favorable changes in blood lipid profiles, including decreased levels of triglycerides and LDL “bad” cholesterol and increased levels of HDL “good” cholesterol. The study builds on a 2014 study of diabetes in mice which suggested that, because of its antioxidant properties, burdock may improve symptoms of diabetes.
High Cholesterol
In a study to identify potential genes that may be involved in lipid metabolism, burdock root extract reduced body weight and cholesterol levels in rats, possibly by modulating the expression of genes.
Liver Support
While burdock has been lauded for its blood-purifying properties, there is limited evidence of its liver-supporting capabilities. A 2002 study found the herb helped reverse liver damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption in rats, though a direct correlation to results in humans cannot necessarily be made. In another animal study, burdock helped to protect against liver damage caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Tylenol (acetaminophen) and carbon tetrachloride, a chemical solvent.
Burdock is one of the key ingredients of Essiac and Flor-Essence, herbal formulas marketed as wonder remedies for people coping with cancer. While advocates claim that Essiac and Flor-Essence can shrink tumors, prolong survival, provide pain relief, and boost immunity, there’s no evidence supporting such claims, according to a report from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. What’s more, one 2006 study found Essiac and Flor-Essence may actually stimulate the growth of human breast cancer cells.
Possible Side Effects
Burdock root is generally regarded as safe, however, some people should avoid it. For instance, people with diabetes who take blood-sugar-lowering medicines should not use burdock root as it may cause hypoglycemia. Burdock has been used traditionally as a diuretic to increase urine output and taking additional diuretics while using it isn’t recommended as it may cause dehydration. Burdock may also trigger an allergy in people sensitive to daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed. Discontinue use and see your health care provider if you suspect an allergic reaction. If you have a sensitivity to foods high in inulin (such as artichokes, asparagus, or leeks), you may experience temporary gas or bloating after eating burdock root. Avoid use if you’re pregnant, as the herb has been reported to stimulate the uterus and possibly cause premature labor.
