Heath Benefits and Historical Uses of Burdock Root
Historical Folk Uses of Burdock Root
Burdock root has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and European folk medicine to treat a variety of health conditions.
In traditional Chinese medicine, burdock root was used as a medicinal herb to improve circulation, support liver function, and improve digestion. There was a traditional use of all parts of the plant: burdock fruit, seeds, roots, and leaves.
These parts were used in different ways as a decoction or tea to treat colds, gout, rheumatism, abdominal complaints, and cancer. They were also used to encourage urine production enhance sweating, and promote intestinal motility. Burdock was frequently used in combination with other herbs to treat sore throat and colds. In parts of Europe, it was commonly used as a blood purifier, and for skin health conditions such as acne and eczema.
Burdock root became popular in the Western world in the 19th century, when traditional European and ancient Chinese medicine remedies were adopted and integrated into Western medicines use of herbs. Today in North America, burdock root is still used as a popular herbal medicines remedy and is included in many natural health products.
Health Benefits of Burdock Root
Numerous scientific studies document the potential of Burdock Root for treating a number of common medical conditions, including cancer, diabetes, liver damage, and inflammation. It contains phenolic acids, quercetin, and luteolin, which are powerful, health-promoting antioxidants that help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Burdock root contains nutrients that feed beneficial bacteria, because the roots are high in inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber that fuels good bacteria in your large intestine, improving digestion. Since its roots extend deeply into the soil (up to 2 feet), it is also high in minerals like calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, and zinc.
Clinical studies in conventional medicine suggest that the roots of the plant contain active ingredients which have been found to help with blood circulation. They found that burdock root can remove heavy metals from the blood, improving the health of the organs as well as that of the entire body, making it a blood cleanser.
A study published in The International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases, and other numerous studies, reported that the burdock root tea improved the state of inflammation and oxidative stress of patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis, otherwise known as degenerative joint disease.
In a 2017 scientific research study, diabetic mice that were pretreated with 200 and 300 milligrams of a extract from the burdock root for one month increased their insulin levels, and balanced blood sugar levels, as well as helped with bodyweight management.
How To Incorporate Burdock Root Into Your Diet
Burdock Root also has its culinary uses. It is a root vegetable that can be eaten, but it is quite fibrous and tough when raw, so it's best to cook it thoroughly before consuming. In Japan it is often grilled or served in stir-fry. It has a slightly sweet, earthy flavor with a bitter taste and a crunchy texture.
Burdock root is also often combined with the use of other medicinal plants, such as dandelion root or milk thistle, to create a liver-supporting tonic.
Many people prefer to make herbal tea with the root of the burdock plant. To make burdock root tea, simply simmer sliced or grated fresh or dried burdock root in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink up to three cups a day. There is also dried root avaliable for purchase in stores and online that can be used in a similar fashion.
If you would like an easier approach, you can get your daily dose of high-quality Burdock Root in our Elixir of Bliss. Simply stir into your favorite warm plant milk and reap the health benefits!
