What is Burdock Root?
Burdock (Arctium lappa) is a biennial plant native to Europe and Asia, now naturalized throughout North America. It belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family. The plant features large, heart-shaped leaves and produces purple-pink tubular flowers with hooked burrs. In Japan, it's known as "gobo" and has been cultivated as a food and medicinal herb for centuries.
The root is the primary part used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It's a long, slender, brown root that can grow up to two feet in length, with a texture similar to parsnips or Jerusalem artichokes.
Traditional Uses: Burdock has been used in Chinese medicine since at least 1578 (documented in the Compendium of Materia Medica) and in European folk medicine for detoxification, blood purification, and treating various ailments.
Primary Functions & Benefits
Key Bioactive Compounds:
Inulin (up to 50%): A prebiotic fiber that supports digestive health
Antioxidants: Quercetin, luteolin, phenolic acids, tannins
Arctiin: A lignan with anti-inflammatory properties
Polyacetylenes: Compounds with antimicrobial and antifungal properties
Mucilage: Soothes the digestive tract
Health Benefits:
Digestive Support: High inulin content promotes healthy gut bacteria and regular bowel movements, helping with constipation and bloating.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Contains powerful antioxidants that may reduce inflammation markers, potentially beneficial for conditions like arthritis, osteoarthritis, and general joint pain.
Blood Sugar Regulation: May help stabilize blood sugar levels after meals, though more research is needed.
Detoxification: Acts as a natural diuretic, supporting kidney and liver function by promoting toxin elimination.
Skin Health: Traditionally used for acne, eczema, psoriasis, and wound healing due to antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The polyacetylenes fight acne-causing bacteria.
Antioxidant Protection: Vitamins C and E, along with other antioxidants, help neutralize free radicals and support immune function.
Cardiovascular Support: Potassium content helps regulate blood pressure; may support heart health by reducing blood pressure.
Potential Cancer Prevention: Some animal and test-tube studies suggest compounds in burdock may slow tumor growth, but human research is insufficient.
Nutritional Content
Per 100g of Raw Burdock Root:
Calories: 72-85 kcal
Carbohydrates: 17-20g (primarily from inulin fiber)
Protein: 1.5-2g
Fat: 0.15g
Fiber: 3-4g
Vitamins:
Vitamin B6: 0.24mg (14% DV)
Folate: 23mcg (7% DV)
Vitamin C: 3mg (6% DV)
Vitamin E: Small amounts
Niacin, Riboflavin: Trace amounts
Minerals:
Potassium: 308mg (10% DV)
Manganese: 0.23mg (14% DV)
Magnesium: 38mg (9% DV)
Phosphorus: 51mg (7% DV)
Calcium: 41mg (5% DV)
Iron: 0.8mg (10% DV)
Zinc: 0.33mg (3% DV)
Copper: 0.08mg (9% DV)
Selenium: 0.7mcg (1% DV)
Note: Burdock is low in sodium (5mg per 100g) and essentially cholesterol-free.
Recommended Dosing
Food Consumption:
Fresh Root: Can be eaten freely as part of regular diet
Cooked: Typically 50-150g per serving
Medicinal Doses:
Dried Root Powder: 1-2 grams, 3 times daily (3-6g total daily)
Burdock Root Tea: 6g dried root per day (1-2 teaspoons per cup, steeped 3-10 minutes)
Tincture: 2-3ml, 2-3 times daily
Capsules/Supplements: Follow manufacturer instructions (typically 300-500mg per capsule)
Therapeutic Doses: Up to 12g daily has been used in clinical settings
Important: There is limited standardized clinical guidance. Start with lower doses and increase gradually.
Forms Available
Fresh Root: Available at Asian markets and specialty stores
Dried Root: For making tea or powder
Tea Bags: Pre-packaged for convenience
Capsules/Tablets: Standardized supplements
Tincture/Liquid Extract: Concentrated herbal preparation
Root Powder: Can be added to smoothies or food
Topical Oil: For skin application
Preparation & Timing
How to Prepare Fresh Burdock:
Wash thoroughly under running water
Peel the outer layer (though the skin contains flavor and nutrients)
Cut into desired shapes (slices, matchsticks, or chunks)
Soak in acidulated water (water with lemon juice or vinegar) to prevent discoloration
Cook methods: Sauté, stir-fry, boil, roast, add to soups/stews
Best Time to Take:
With Meals: Take burdock supplements with food, especially meals containing some fat, for optimal absorption of fat-soluble nutrients
Morning or Evening: No significant difference; consistency matters more
Tea: Can be consumed 1-3 times daily between meals
No specific timing restrictions: Unlike some herbs, burdock doesn't typically cause sleep disturbances
Storage:
Fresh Root: Store unwashed in refrigerator for up to one month
Dried Root/Supplements: Store in cool, dry place away from light
Synergistic Supplements & Combinations
Take WITH Burdock:
Probiotics: Enhance the prebiotic effects of inulin
Other Detoxifying Herbs: Dandelion root, milk thistle (for liver support)
Anti-inflammatory Herbs: Turmeric, ginger
Vitamin C: May enhance antioxidant effects
Digestive Enzymes: Support overall gut health
Traditional Herbal Formulas:
Essiac Tea: Contains burdock root, sheep sorrel, slippery elm bark, and rhubarb root
Blood Purifier Blends: Often combined with yellow dock, red clover
Interactions & What NOT to Take
Medications to Avoid Combining:
Blood Thinners/Anticoagulants:
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Aspirin, clopidogrel
Risk: Increased bleeding and bruising
Diabetes Medications:
Insulin, glimepiride, glyburide, metformin
Risk: Excessive blood sugar lowering (hypoglycemia)
Diuretics (Water Pills):
Furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide
Risk: Excessive fluid loss and dehydration
Sedatives/CNS Depressants:
Risk: May increase sedative effects
Cautions:
Avoid taking 2 weeks before surgery due to bleeding risk
Do NOT combine with multiple diuretics (natural or pharmaceutical)
Monitor closely if on diabetes medications
Who Should Take Burdock Root
Ideal Candidates:
Individuals seeking digestive support and prebiotic fiber
People with inflammatory conditions (arthritis, joint pain)
Those looking for skin health support (acne, eczema, psoriasis)
Individuals wanting natural detoxification support
People with elevated blood sugar (under medical supervision)
Those with high blood pressure
Individuals seeking antioxidant support
People interested in traditional herbal medicine
May Benefit From Use:
People with constipation or sluggish digestion
Those with water retention (as a mild diuretic)
Individuals with poor skin health or wound healing
People looking to support liver and kidney function
Who Should AVOID or Use Caution
Absolute Contraindications:
Pregnant Women:
Burdock may stimulate uterine contractions
Theoretical risk of miscarriage
No safety studies exist
AVOID during entire pregnancy
Breastfeeding Women:
Insufficient safety data
May pass into breast milk
Best to avoid until more research available
People Allergic to Asteraceae/Compositae Family:
Includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies
Risk of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis (rare but serious)
Scheduled for Surgery:
Stop at least 2 weeks before surgery due to bleeding risk
Use with Extreme Caution:
People on Blood Thinners: Risk of excessive bleeding
Diabetics: May cause hypoglycemia; close monitoring required
People Taking Diuretics: Risk of severe dehydration
Those with Dehydration: Burdock's diuretic effect can worsen condition
People with Bleeding Disorders: May increase bleeding risk
Children Under 2: Insufficient safety data
People with Autoimmune Conditions: Limited data; consult healthcare provider
Those with Liver Disease: Monitor liver function
Deficiency Symptoms
NOTE: Burdock is NOT an essential nutrient, so true "deficiency" doesn't exist. However, lack of fiber-rich, antioxidant-containing foods in the diet may lead to:
Poor digestive function
Constipation
Reduced detoxification capacity
Low antioxidant status
Inflammatory conditions
Poor skin health
Blood sugar irregularities
Adding burdock-rich or similar prebiotic foods may help address these issues.
Side Effects & Adverse Reactions
Common Side Effects:
Digestive Upset:
Gas and bloating (due to high inulin content)
Temporary diarrhea
Abdominal discomfort
Most common in those sensitive to high-fiber foods
Increased Urination: Due to diuretic properties
Skin Reactions:
Contact dermatitis (topical use)
Rash or irritation
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
Allergic Reactions:
Hives, itching, swelling
Difficulty breathing
Anaphylaxis (extremely rare but life-threatening)
Hypoglycemia:
Dizziness, shakiness, confusion
Excessive sweating
Particularly in diabetics
Dehydration:
Dry mouth, dizziness
Dark urine, decreased urination
Fatigue
Contamination Risks:
Historical cases of burdock tea contaminated with belladonna (deadly nightshade) containing toxic atropine
Only buy from reputable sources
Never forage wild burdock unless absolutely certain of identification
Potential Liver Issues: Rare reports; monitor for jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)
Toxicity Symptoms
Burdock is generally considered safe when used appropriately. However, excessive intake may cause:
Severe dehydration from excessive diuretic effect
Electrolyte imbalances
Severe hypoglycemia (in vulnerable individuals)
Acute allergic reactions
Contamination Toxicity (from misidentified or contaminated products):
Symptoms of atropine poisoning: dilated pupils, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, confusion, hallucinations
Seek immediate medical attention
No established toxic dose exists for pure burdock, but moderation is key.
Special Considerations
Quality Concerns:
Wild Foraging Risks: Burdock resembles toxic plants like foxglove and belladonna; misidentification can be fatal
Contamination: Roots can accumulate toxins from soil (heavy metals, pesticides)
Always purchase from reputable sources with quality testing
Pregnancy & Lactation:
Despite centuries of use, there are no human clinical trials confirming safety. The theoretical risk of uterine stimulation means avoidance is the safest approach.
Diabetes Management:
If you have diabetes, work closely with your healthcare provider. Burdock may enhance the effects of diabetes medications, requiring dose adjustments.
Food vs. Supplement:
As Food: Generally safe in reasonable culinary amounts As Supplement: Concentrated doses carry higher risk of side effects and interactions
Healing Crisis:
Traditional herbalists note that burdock can cause a "healing crisis" where symptoms temporarily worsen before improving. This is thought to be related to its detoxifying effects.
Comparison to Dandelion Root:
Both are from the Asteraceae family and share many properties:
Both are excellent for digestion, diabetes, and skin conditions
Both are natural diuretics loaded with antioxidants
Dandelion: Specifically excellent for liver and bone health
Burdock: Particularly strong for blood cleansing and osteoarthritis
Dandelion: High in vitamins A, C, K, and fiber
Burdock: High in vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, and fiber
Summary & Key Takeaways
Burdock root is a nutrient-rich traditional herb with centuries of use in Asian and European medicine. It offers digestive support through its prebiotic inulin content, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, and may support skin health, blood sugar regulation, and detoxification.
Bottom Line:
Start with food: Incorporate fresh burdock root into your diet like any other vegetable
Quality matters: Only buy from reputable sources; never forage unless expert
Watch for interactions: Particularly with blood thinners, diabetes medications, and diuretics
Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Take with meals for best absorption and reduced digestive upset
Start low, go slow: Begin with small doses to assess tolerance
Monitor for allergies: Especially if sensitive to ragweed or daisies
Consult healthcare providers: Before using therapeutically, especially if on medications or have chronic conditions
While generally safe as a food, burdock should be used thoughtfully as a supplement, with awareness of potential interactions and contraindications.