Burdock root may have a long list of health benefits such as detoxifying the body, healing the liver, preventing chronic disease, reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, healing respiratory infections, improving hair health and soothing stomach disorders. Some of the side effects of drinking this tea can include uterine contractions, as well as allergic reactions in the form of contact dermatitis. Burdock root toxicity can occur when consumed in high doses and may include dizziness, headache, dry mouth, sweating, fever, and slurred speech. Again, when this tea is taken in moderation, it is widely considered a safe and beneficial health tonic.
Other Name
Arctium, Arctium lappa, Arctium minus, Arctium tomentosum, Bardana, Bardana-minor, Bardanae Radix, Bardane, Bardane Comestible, Bardane Géante, Bardane Majeure, Beggar’s Buttons, Burdock Root Extract, Burr Seed, Clotbur, Cocklebur, Cockle Buttons, Edible Burdock, Fox’s Clote, Gobo, Glouteron, Grande Bardane, Great Bur, Great Burdocks, Happy Major, Hardock, Harebur, Herbe aux Teigneux, Herbe du Teigneux, Lappa, Love Leaves, Niu Bang Zi, Orelha-de-gigante, Personata, Philanthropium, Rhubarbe du Diable, Thorny Burr.
Benefits of Burdock Root Tea
Burdock root tea can be beneficial if you want a remedy for high blood pressure, cold and flu, liver toxicity, arthritis, gout, headaches, chronic inflammation, hair loss, dandruff, indigestion, bronchitis, constipation, acid reflux disease, fever, and edema. Some other best benefits offered by burdock tea are listed below.
- Potential Diuretic Effects – In traditional use, burdock root tea was commonly turned to for its potent diuretic and diaphoretic effects, meaning that it caused sweating and urination in people who drank it. This can help to purify the blood and detoxify the body, as sweating and urination are both ways for the body to expel excess toxins, salts, and water, thereby relieving stress on the liver, lymphatic system, and kidneys. [rx]
- May Improve Heart Health – Possibly high potassium levels found in burdock root tea mean that this herbal beverage can be excellent for heart health, as it can reduce strain on the cardiovascular system by lowering blood pressure. Potassium not only regulates the fluid balance in the body but also acts as a vasodilator, helping to prevent atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. [rx]
- May Improve Immune System – Notable levels of vitamin C in this root tea may help to stimulate the immune system and the production of white blood cells, while also perhaps boosting collagen production and speeding the healing and recovery process following an illness. [rx]
- May Improve Liver Function – A number of studies have shown that burdock root tea can help speed the regrowth process of liver cells following serious diseases, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis. The liver is a precious organ that can be easily damaged, making this brew very important to individuals with blood-borne diseases of alcohol-induced damage. [rx]
- May Boost Hair Care – The phytosterols found in burdock root tea, as well as the essential oils in the root, can prevent hair loss and improve the health of the scalp and follicles, eliminating dandruff and other common issues. [rx]
- May Decrease Inflammation – In natural health traditions, burdock root tea was often recommended for people suffering from headaches, fever, aches, pains, and joint disorders. This is due to the potential anti-inflammatory nature of this herbal tea, and people still turn to this brew for similar conditions. For those with gout, research has shown that the compounds in burdock root tea can decrease levels of uric acid in the blood, improving this condition. [rx]
- May Heal Respiratory Issues – This herbal tea has both, expectorant and decongestant properties, so if you’re suffering from a cough, cold or flu-like symptoms, a cup or two each day can help cut through the phlegm and mucus, while the antibacterial nature of the tea can attack the underlying infection to speed healing. [rx]
- It’s a powerhouse of antioxidants – Burdock root has been shown to contain multiple types of powerful antioxidants, including quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids (rx). Antioxidants protect cells in the body from damage due to free radicals. They can help treat and prevent a number of different health conditions. Antioxidants can also help to reduce inflammation. One study found that burdock root reduced inflammatory markers in the blood of patients with osteoarthritis (rx).
- It removes toxins from the blood – One of the most common uses for burdock root has been to purify the blood. Recent evidence has found that burdock root contains active ingredients in its root system that can remove toxins from the bloodstream. Research also found that burdock root effectively detoxified blood and promoted increased circulation in the surface of the skin (rx).
- It may inhibit some types of cancer – Burdock root, as it turns out, may not only purify the blood, but it may also inhibit certain types of cancer. Research has also found that burdock had “potent inhibitory effects” on cancer growth caused by cancers like pancreatic carcinoma (rx). Another study found burdock root significantly interfered with cancer cell growth. While more research is needed to determine the full effects of burdock on different types of cancers and tumors, this is still a remarkable finding (rx, rx,rx, rx).
- It may be an aphrodisiac – Another possible use of burdock root is as an aphrodisiac. In a nonhuman study, it was found that the extract of burdock root had an aphrodisiac effect. The extract enhanced sexual function and increased the amount of sexual behavior in the male rats (6). Research is needed on humans, but anecdotal evidence supports this claim.
- Soothing a cough and cold – Burdock root tea has traditionally been used as a decongestant and expectorant for colds and cough. While the science is limited on this, burdock does contain vitamin C, which is shown to boost the immune system; some research has also shown that it has antibacterial properties.4
- Reducing blood pressure – Burdock root tea contains potassium, which may help to lower blood pressure and open blood vessels to improve blood flow.
- Easing Aches and pains – The burdock plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. A 2014 study found drinking the tea lowers certain inflammatory markers in patients with knee osteoarthritis.6
- It can help treat skin issues – Burdock root has also long been used to treat skin conditions like acne and eczema. The root’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can help resolve skin issues when applied topically to the skin (rx, rx). There’s also evidence that burdock root may help treat topical burns (rx rx).
Potential risks and side effects
There’s limited or no research available on the pediatric uses of burdock root, and its safety hasn’t been studied in children. Because of this, you should never give your child burdock root unless under the supervision of your healthcare provider.
Some potential risks of burdock include the following
- If you’re taking burdock supplements, take only in moderation. More research is needed to determine the safety of the supplement.
- Burdock is considered to be safe to eat, but you should only buy it from reputable sellers and should never collect it in the wild. The burdock plant resembles belladonna nightshade plants, which are highly toxic. They often grow together.
- Burdock root is a natural diuretic, so you shouldn’t take it if you’re dehydrated. You also shouldn’t take it if you’re also taking other diuretics or water pills, as it can increase dehydration.
- If you’re allergic to chrysanthemums or daisies, you may be at an increased risk of having an allergic reaction to burdock root and should avoid it.
- Pregnant women or women trying to become pregnant shouldn’t take burdock root or supplements.
How Do You Make Burdock Tea?
Making burdock root tea is quite simple, provided you have access to fresh burdock root. You may also purchase burdock root tea that has already been shredded and roasted, and therefore ready to brew. Let’s take a look at the step-by-step procedure to make burdock tea.
Burdock Root Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 8-10 burdock root strips
- 2 cups water filtered
- 1 tsp organic honey or sugar
Instructions
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To make burdock root tea, first, buy fresh burdock roots. Begin by cutting them into 1-2 inch chunks. Then, using a potato peeler or a knife, shred the root chunks into thin strips, which might look like bark peelings. Place this outside to dry in the sun for a few hours.
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Once they are dry, place them in a frying pan and heat them up, but do not use oil. They should roast quite easily if you heat them for 5-10 minutes and you want the color to be a rich golden brown. Once they are cooled, they can be brewed into burdock root tea. Store the excess for later use in a mason jar kept in a cool, dark and dry place.
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Place the burdock root strips in a teapot. Once done, bring the water up to a boil in a stainless steel pot.
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Remove the stainless steel pot from the stove and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Then pour it into the teapot.
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Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes.
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Thereafter, pour the tea, add any natural sweeteners to it, and enjoy!
Burdock tea has a soothing and pleasant flavor. You may find its smell quite strong and you may even find its taste to be sweet and crisp, but you may add a bit of honey or lemon juice to improve the flavor if you don’t find it palatable.
Burdock Root Tea Side Effects
Some of the notable side effects of burdock root tea include allergic reactions, negative interactions for pregnant and nursing women, and possible toxicities if the roots have been contaminated or are consumed in too high a concentration.
- Pregnancy – Studies have shown that burdock root tea can stimulate uterine contractions, which is dangerous for pregnant women, particularly in the first two trimesters of their pregnancy. Similarly, for nursing women, some of the potent compounds of this tea can be passed to the infant, and should, therefore, be avoided.
- Blood Pressure – The blood pressure-lowering qualities of this tea are beneficial unless you suffer from hypotension, or are already on medicine for hypertension, in which case, you could experience lightheadedness, dizziness, or cognitive confusion.
- Allergic Reactions – Some people are allergic to burdock root and will experience rapid contact dermatitis, possibly while preparing the tea. If any swelling, inflammation, or skin rash develops, stop using this tea immediately.
- Toxicity – Due to the wild nature of this root, there have been reports of the root being affected by other atropine-containing plants, which can result in toxicity symptoms, including hallucinations, dizziness, nausea, fever, headache, and slurred speech. If any of these symptoms occur, stop using the tea and throw out any other root strips from that batch. [rx]
Diuretic
Burdock root may also act as a diuretic. Diuretics help remove water from the body, offering relief for people retaining water.
Antioxidant
Antioxidants help fight the effects of free radicals. Free radicals are chemicals in the body that damage the body’s cells and may be responsible for a wide range of ailments, including cancer, aging, and inflammatory disorders. They tend to accumulate with age, so researchers are interested in how antioxidants might slow the process of aging.
Several studies have found that burdock root acts as an antioxidant. A 2014 study of diabetes in mice suggests that because of its antioxidant properties, burdock may improve symptoms of diabetes. Earlier research, including a 1998 study, found that burdock root actively seeks out and destroys free radicals.
Reducing inflammation
Free radical damage, autoimmune disorders, and other medical conditions can cause chronic inflammation. Inflammation is linked to many medical conditions, including osteoarthritis. A 2014 study trusted Source found that burdock root significantly decreased measures of inflammation in people with knee osteoarthritis.
Treating or preventing cancer
Free radicals and inflammation are both linked to the development of cancer. This means that burdock’s role as an antioxidant anti-inflammatory might help to prevent cancer. Preliminary research also supports the notion that burdock can help slow the growth of cancer. A 2016 study found that burdock might slow the growth of breast cancer tumors.
What are the side effects?
Burdock root should be avoided by pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding. In 1978, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recalled some burdock teas after at least two people were poisoned. It is important to choose a trusted source of burdock and only to purchase products that specify the product’s contents. If you are unsure, then do not buy or use the herb.
Burdock may cause allergic reactions and other side effects. People who should avoid burdock root include:
- women who are pregnant, want to become pregnant, or who are breast-feeding
- children under 18
- people with a history of allergies to plants, unless a doctor suggests otherwise
- people taking diuretics, diabetes medication, or blood thinners
People with chronic or life-threatening health conditions should ask their doctor before using burdock root.
Burdock root is a fiber-rich vegetable. People who need more fiber, including those with diabetes, may wish to include it in their diet rather than take it as a supplement. Using the root as a whole product might be safer than using supplements.
Burdock root may also help with some skin conditions, such as acne and minor skin irritation. Apply a paste or tincture directly to the affected area.
How to use burdock root
Burdock root is available as a tea, an herbal tincture, a crushed powder that a person can take in pill form, and as a decoction, which is a liquid made from boiling the herb. Some studies have found that fermented burdock is the best option, so people should consider fermented tinctures over other options. Some teas may also contain fermented burdock.
Because burdock research is in its infancy, there is no single recommended minimum or maximum dose.
A glass of burdock tea per day should be safe. Consult an herbalist with a background in medicine for advice about the appropriate dosage.
It is unsafe to use wild burdock because it might be contaminated. Other weeds might also be mistaken for burdock.
From Where To Buy
- TOP QUALITY BURDOCK ROOT - Frontier Co-op offers high quality Burdock root (Arctium lappa L.) in one pound bulk packaging. The root is native to Europe and North Asia but can be found in many areas across the globe. The burdock plant is a genus that is related to both sunflowers and some members of the daisy family. The roots are very fibrous, and when cut becomes soft and stringy. Burdock root is used both for tea and in cooking.
- SKIN AND DIGESTIVE HEALTH - Burdock root is a superior tonic herb that has a special affinity for the skin.The root can be used in all types of skin preparations. Burdock root is traditionally used to support healthy skin and to support a healthy digestive system.
- VERSATILE USES - Burdock root is common in stews, soups, sauteed vegetables, and teas. It is also used as a vegetable by itself and delivers an earthy, sweet and mild taste that complements other flavors. It accents Japanese miso soup (tonjiru), rolled sushi, vegetable dishes, and more. It can be mixed with other teas or brewed by itself.
- SUSTAINABLY GROWN IN BULGARIA - Frontier Co-op burdock root is grown and harvested in Bulgaria and carefully extracted from the soil (up to several feet down) to obtain roots with the best potency. Our farmers don't use additives or chemicals to produce high-quality burdock roots. Our product is 100% organic, kosher certified, and non-irradiated.
- ABOUT US - Owned by stores and organizations that buy and sell our products, Frontier Co-op has been a member-owned cooperative since 1976. We support natural-living and our products are never irradiated or treated with ETO. We're committed to the health and welfare of the environment and everyone producing and consuming our botanical products.
References
Dr. Md. Harun Ar Rashid, MPH, MD, PhD, is a highly respected medical specialist celebrated for his exceptional clinical expertise and unwavering commitment to patient care. With advanced qualifications including MPH, MD, and PhD, he integrates cutting-edge research with a compassionate approach to medicine, ensuring that every patient receives personalized and effective treatment. His extensive training and hands-on experience enable him to diagnose complex conditions accurately and develop innovative treatment strategies tailored to individual needs. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Harun Ar Rashid is dedicated to medical education and research, writing and inventory creative thinking, innovative idea, critical care managementing make in his community to outreach, often participating in initiatives that promote health awareness and advance medical knowledge. His career is a testament to the high standards represented by his credentials, and he continues to contribute significantly to his field, driving improvements in both patient outcomes and healthcare practices.
