Burdock – Arctium lappa
For many, their first experience of Burdock is finding its burs stuck to their clothing or trying to untangle it from dog fur. Besides these Velcro inspiring burs, Burdock it is also a powerful healer.
Burdock is an ancient medicine in both Asian and Western traditions. It is one of the most well known “blood cleansers” in Chinese and Western herbalism. Blood cleansers, or alteratives, work by stimulating and helping the liver and kidneys to clear the body of wastes while also increasing availability of nutrients to help repair and protect bodily tissues. Burdock is one of the few herbs for skin that is taken internally. It is regularly used for skin conditions ranging from eczema to acne and psoriasis. It is also used to help balance menstrual cycles and hormonal fluctuations, making it an excellent addition during menopause. It is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory. Due to its slight mucilaginous quality and high concentrations of inulin, it aids digestion and heals the gut. It is a powerful antioxidant and has shown some promise in helping to prevent cancer.
While the root is primarily used, the leaves and seeds have also been used traditionally. The seeds are diuretic and have been found helpful in treating arthritis and asthma; the leaves are used externally for boils and other inflamed skin conditions. The root can be taken as a decoction, tincture, or powdered.
Burdock is one of our great medicinal foods. The root is delicious and slightly sweet and is used frequently in Japanese cooking, where it is known as gobo. As it can be eaten raw or cooked, food is one of the best ways to take Burdock. It is delicious roasted with other root vegetables, added to stir-fry and soups, or made into chips or fries. The very young stalks can be boiled and eaten like asparagus.
Energetically, it can aid those with unhealthy attachments and provide grounding energy to those struggling to feel rooted in their lives. It is cleansing and protective.
Burdock is widespread throughout Europe and North America and is another one of our healing “weeds”.
Seasoned Burdock Fries
5 Burdock roots*, well cleaned
2 tablespoons sunflower oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Dash of Tamari
salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Slice the roots into ¼ inch thick strips. Place them in a plastic bag. Add oil, spices, and Tamari. Seal and shake until all pieces are well coated in oil and spices. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 35 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are brown and fries are soft in the middle.
*Burdock roots vary greatly in size, especially if wild harvested; adjust the number of roots used according to the size of your roots.
