What is burdock good for?

People take burdock to increase urine flow, kill germs, reduce fever, and “purify” their blood. It is also used to treat colds, cancer, anorexia nervosa, gastrointestinal (GI) complaints, joint pain (rheumatism), gout, bladder infections, complications of syphilis, and skin conditions including acne and psoriasis.

Is burdock plant poisonous?

Burdock is not toxic but because of its spiny burs it can become attached to animals fur and cause trauma.

Are burdock leaves poisonous to humans?

The plant is considered toxic due to potential diuretic effects. In addition, leaves and stems of the plant contain lactones and may cause dermatitis in humans.

What happens if you eat burdock?

Burdock Leaves They tend to be bitter, but less so when they’re small. What is this? Eat the Weeds suggests using large burdock leaves to wrap foods for campfire cooking. While they may not be tasty alone, they’re technically edible (not toxic) and won’t contribute much flavor to the foods they’re wrapped around.

Where does burdock grow?

Burdock thrives along river banks, disturbed habitats, roadsides, vacant lots, and fields. It grows throughout North America but not in the southern regions.

Is burdock good for skin?

Burdock root’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial components may help different skin conditions, like wrinkles, eczema, acne, and psoriasis when applied topically. A small observational study found burdock may help with inflammatory types of acne.

Do animals eat burdock?

These prickly burrs are noted for easily catching on to fur and clothing, thus providing an excellent mechanism for seed dispersal (Keil). Burrs cause local irritation and can possibly cause intestinal hairballs in pets. However, most animals avoid ingesting these plants.

Where is burdock found?

Introduced from Europe, burdock can be found in open fields, along trails, roadsides, and in disturbed soils. It often spreads prolifically, and is considered an invasive species in several states. Common burdock (Arctium minus) grows in most of the US, except Florida and Hawaii. It also extends across southern Canada.

Can you eat burdock raw?

You can often find fresh burdock root at natural food stores and farmers’ markets. If eating it, peel the outer layer. You can eat it raw or cooked, such as sauteed or stir-fried. You can also find it as a dried powder, in supplements, or in some skincare products.

Is burdock root good for skin?

It’s good for your skin “Burdock root has been known to fight common skin afflictions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis thanks to its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties,” says Jamie Bacharach, DiplAc, of Acupuncture Jerusalem.

Where is burdock native to?

northern Europe
Native to northern Europe; common burdock is one of nature’s original “velcros;” burs cling readily to fur and clothing and are difficult to remove. This species generally occurs as a weed in wildland areas of the Southwestern Region rather than as an invasive plant.

How tall does burdock grow?

9 feet high
Although burdock is native to Eurasia, it has quickly adapted to North America. It is a biennial with a history of herbal and medicinal uses. This is considered an easy plant to grow and has an interesting gamut of uses. The plant can reach up to 9 feet high and produces rough, sticky and burred fruits.