Burdock Root
Burdock Arctium lappa Family Asteraceae (daisy) Part Root Energetics Bitter, sweet, warm, oily Actions Alterative, tonic, diuretic, cholagogue Organs/Systems Liver, skin Description Burdock is one of the more well-known alteratives, or blood purifiers. This can be useful in cases of painful joints such as arthritis or gout, or if there is inflammation of the skin such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, or dermatitis. It is often used as a digestive bitter to promote the absorption of dietary fats. Burdock is a remedy used when there is a deficiency of oil production, which includes the hormones. Therefore it is used in cases of adrenal exhaustion or long periods of weakness. It could be classified in Native American herbalism as a Bear medicine, which are characterized by furry brown roots that bears dig up to eat. Bear medicines aid in system restoration, as a bear might gain during hibernation. Coincidentally, the latin name ‘arctium’ comes from the greek arctos, meaning bear. Cautions Se