Burdock
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Several
animal studies done using burdock root show promising benefits in
treating diabetes, cancer and hepatitis. |
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Table of Contents
Suggested
Benefits
and Traditional Uses
Facts and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings
Dosage & How to Take It
Facts and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings
Dosage & How to Take It
Evidence of Benefits (Leaf Rating System)
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Diabetes |
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Cancer
Treatment |
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Anti-inflammatory
Benefits (Osteoarthritis) |
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Hepatitis
/ Liver Protection Burdock root is suggested to be a blood cleanser. It can help to protect the liver and kidney and assist in the detoxification process of the body. |
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Acne Anecdotal reports suggest apply a solution containing extracts of the roots may be used to treat acne conditions. |
Suggested Benefits and Traditional Uses
- Acne
- Anti-inflammatory benefits
- Antioxidant benefits
- Arthritis
- Bacterial infections
- Baldness
- "Blood cleanser" benefits
- Cancer treatment
- Diabetes
- Diuretic (promote urine flow)
- Hair loss
- Hepatitis
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- HIV
- Liver protection against toxins
- Kidney stones
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriasis
- Acne
Facts and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Burdock?
Burdock root
is a plant native to northern Asia, Europe and North America. The root
part can be eaten and is safe.
What research studies are done on using burdock root?
Many research
studies are done on animals
such as rats and dogs. The results are promising in using this herb to
treat cancer of the liver, lower blood sugar levels in diabetics and
reducing inflammation in the paws of dogs.
One study done in mice showed that it can protect the liver from the toxic effects of an overdose in acetaminophen (Tylenol).
One study done in mice showed that it can protect the liver from the toxic effects of an overdose in acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Side Effects, Toxicity and Warnings
What are some common side effects from taking burdock root?
There are some
minor side effects
reported from using the tea extracts. These include blurred vision,
dry mouth, fatigue and slow heart rate.
However, experts believe that these side effects were from contaminated harvest and not from the herb itself.
However, experts believe that these side effects were from contaminated harvest and not from the herb itself.
What are some possible interactions and dangers?
Some animal
studies show that this herb
may increase bleeding risk.
In theory, because it may show diuretic effects, a person may loose an excessive amount of water and may suffer from mild dehydration.
In theory, because it may show diuretic effects, a person may loose an excessive amount of water and may suffer from mild dehydration.
Dosage & How to Take It
The effective dose to use in human is unknown. Suggested dosages are listed below as suggested by herbalists.Dried roots: Take 2 to 6 grams in a decoction boiled for 10 minutes. Drink up to three times daily.
Pills: Take 300 to 500 mg up to three times daily.
Liquid Extract (1:1) - Take 2 to 8 mL up to three times daily.
Tincture (1:10) - Use 8 to 12 mL up to three times daily.
Selected References for Burdock
Updated: March 13, 2010
