Burdock
(Arctium lappa)
Also know as Gobo
Botanical Information
A large-leaved stout weedy biennial with spiny burr-like fruiting heads and purple flowers. Common throughout Europe and the eastern U.S. and Rockies.
Working with Burdock
Part(s) Used
Root
Herb Forms
Tinctures, bulk herb, powder, fresh root, capsules, tablets.
Affects
Burdock is a stimulating (as well as a nutritive) tonic and is often recommended as a cleansing herb. It is considered a blood purifier and is used for acne, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin problems and for liver stagnation and difficulty with fat digestion. It is indicated for rheumatism, arthritis, gout, cystitis, and anorexia nervosa. Recent research has shown it to be antimutagenic, perhaps acting as a cancer protector. Antimicrobial and antitumor properties have also been reported.
You can use burdock as a nutritive food. Add 1 teaspoon of the sliced root (found in many markets) to soups and stews.
Burdock (Gobo) has a taste of BITTER, SWEET and a temperature of COOLING, WARM.
Cautions
None noted.
