Burdock Bliss: A flavorful journey to health and vitality

July 10, 2023

In the vast realm of root vegetables, a global sensation often escapes mainstream attention: burdock root. Native to Northern Asia and Europe, this humble plant has been revered in traditional herbal medicine for centuries and continues to grace the culinary traditions of diverse cultures worldwide. However, the true allure of burdock root extends far beyond its delightful taste and satisfying crunch.

Modern research unveils a plethora of health benefits associated with this unassuming vegetable, making it a worthy addition to your grocery wishlist. Prepare to discover the untapped potential of burdock root as we delve into its remarkable qualities.

Burdock root: a nutrient-rich root veggie that supports healthy gut, beautiful skin, and natural detoxification

While traditionally used for digestive support and diuretic properties, burdock root (Arctium lappa) is also often touted for other health benefits. For example, recent research suggests that burdock root may benefit people with osteoarthritis (OA), age-related "wear and tear" joint damage that can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. In 2014, the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases published a small study that showed that three cups of burdock root tea daily significantly reduced the blood levels of substances associated with oxidative stress and inflammation in people with OA. These findings could be due to burdock root's high concentration of antioxidant compounds, including quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids.

In addition to anti-inflammatory properties, burdock root also appears to be antibacterial. This could explain why some studies have shown that applying burdock root topically to areas of the body affected by conditions like burns, acne, and eczema may restore skin health, texture, and overall appearance. In extract form, burdock root has also been shown to suppress bacterial growth in the mouth.

According to traditional medicinal cultures, burdock root is even thought to promote blood detoxification and enhance lymphatic drainage. And a 2011 review published in Inflammopharmacology also notes that burdock root seeds contain "potent inhibitory effects" on tumor growth.

More robust research in humans is needed to clarify these and other potential health benefits of burdock. In the meantime, we know that burdock root is a good source of good-for-you nutrients, including manganese, magnesium, potassium, folate, vitamin C, phosphorus, iron, calcium, and copper. And with only 72 calories per 100 grams of raw root, burdock is an easy dietary add-in for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight.

How to consume burdock root - plus a few important precautions to know

The use and popularity of burdock root for better health come from a long history of traditional herbal remedies. And like many healing herbs, burdock root may not be suitable for everyone.

For instance, while the research seems mixed, it is often advised for women to avoid burdock while pregnant - at least in supplement form - because large amounts may act as a uterine stimulant and increase the risk of miscarriage. Anyone with an allergy to daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweeds should also avoid burdock root due to the risk of an allergic reaction. In addition, people who are dehydrated or who take certain medications (such as diuretics and blood thinners), as well as people with certain health conditions like diabetes, should talk to their trusted health care provider before taking a burdock root supplement.

If you are interested in seeing whether burdock root could improve your health, you can add it to your diet in many ways. Some people mix dried burdock root powder with hot water and enjoy it as tea, while others take it as a supplement in capsule or fluid extract form. You can also eat it as a food, which is quite common in countries like Japan. If you find some raw burdock root, look for recipes such as braised burdock root (in Japan, this is known as kinpira gobo) or pickled burdock.

A final note of caution: always get your burdock roots or supplements from trustworthy sources. Burdock roots closely resemble belladonna nightshade plants, which are toxic and potentially deadly if consumed.

Sources for this article include:

Posted in