Plant Remedies Burdock

Burdock, the only British member of its genus, belongs to the thistle group of the great order, compositae.

Burdock was a traditional blood purifier, often combined in folk brews such as dandelion and burdock wine and it was once popular for indigestion and can also be used to lower blood sugar levels.

Parts of the plants used are the leaves, seeds and the root. The leaves are generally less effective than the root, but are particularly good for stomach problems including indigestion.

Glycosides - Lappin, flavonoid, sugar, tannins, volatile oil, resin , mucilage, inulin, alkaloids. The seeds contain essential fatty acids, vitamin A, B2

The roots are traditionally used as a mild laxative, diuretic, promote sweating, anti-rheumatic and antibiotic. The seeds are traditionally used to prevent fever, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and to reduce blood sugar levels. The leaves are traditionally used as a mild laxative and diuretic.

Decoction This has been traditionally used for skin disorders, especially persistent boils, sores and dry, scaling eczema.

Tincture This is traditionally used in combination with arthritic, digestive herbs, such as yellow dock to detoxify the system and stimulate the digestion.

Wash This is traditionally used for acne and fungal skin infection such as athletes foot and ringworm.

Leaves

Infusion These are traditionally used for indigestion (Take a wine glass dose before meals)

Infused oil This is traditionally made using a hot infusion for varicose ulcers

Seeds

Decoction The seeds are traditionally used for feverish colds with sore throat and cough.