Introduction:

Burdock root is a vegetable native to Northern Asia and Europe, though it now grows in the United States.  Burdock root has been used for centuries in holistic medicine to treat a variety of different conditions. Traditionally, it’s been most commonly used as a diuretic and a digestive aid.

Burdock root benefits:

Powerhouse of antioxidants

Burdock root has been shown to contain multiple types of powerful antioxidants; including quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids    Antioxidants can also help to reduce inflammation. One study found that burdock root reduced inflammatory markers in the blood of patients with osteoarthritis

Purifies the blood:

One of the most common uses for burdock root has been to purify the blood.  Recent evidence has found that burdock root contains active ingredients in its root system that can remove toxins from the bloodstream. Research also found that burdock root effectively detoxified blood and promoted increased circulation in the surface of the skin

Inhibits certain forms of cancer:

Burdock root, as it turns out, may not only purify the blood, but it may also inhibit certain types of cancer.

Aphrodisiac effect:

Another use of burdock root is as an aphrodisiac. In a nonhuman study, it was found that the extract of burdock root had an aphrodisiac effect.

Treats skin conditions:

Burdock root has also long been used to treat skin conditions like acne and eczema. The root’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can help resolve skin issues.

Forms of preparations:

There are a number of different forms of burdock root available. These include:

• fresh burdock root
• burdock tea
• dried root powder
• burdock oil or burdock extract

Conclusion:

Burdock herb may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects.  Burdock root is available in tea form or supplements. Consult and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and those on the supplement’s label.