This weeks herbal highlight features an herb that is often overlooked because of it's common weed label. But for those with circulatory problems, toxicity, diabetes, hyperglycemia, and skin diseases there is great help to be found in it's medicinal properties.
So, without further ado, I would like to introduce you to Burdock.
Blessings,
The Herb Girl
Burdock
Scientific Name: Arctium
Medicinal Uses: Detoxifying, Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Fungal, Anti-Inflammatory
Blood purifier. Promotes good circulation. Used in the treatment of Skin Diseases (i.e. acne, abscesses, psoriasis, eczema, and carbuncles), Diabetes and Hypoglycemia (contains inulin, which strengthens the liver), Crohn's Disease, and to alleviate the body's distress from Chronic Fatigue.
Constituents: Up to 50% Inulin, polyacetylenes, volatile acids (acetic, proprionic, butyric, isovaleric), non-hydroxyl acids (lauric, myristic, stearic, palmitic), polyphenolic acids, and tannins. [source]
Preparations: Tea (most common), Tincture, Capsule
Sometimes eaten raw.
Portions Used: Root (most common), Leaves and Fruit
Identification: Often mistaken as a common weed, Burdock grows strong and sturdy with annoying burrs. The plant grows relatively tall, growing 3-6 feet, and can be about 1.5 feet in diameter at the base.
Burdock is easily identified by it's large, wavy, heart-shaped leaves that are green on the top and whitish on the bottom. Its prickly purple ball flowers (burs) on the tips bloom between June and October.
Thrives along river banks, roadsides, fields, and disturbed habitats.
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