Burdock (arctium)

Table of Contents

Other names

burdock root
greater burdock

Synopsis

Burdock (Arctium lappa) is a biennial plant native to Europe and Asia, widely naturalized in North America, and commonly used in herbal medicine, traditional Asian cuisine, and detoxification protocols. The root is the most commonly used medicinal part, prized for its ability to purify the blood, support liver and skin health, and promote healthy elimination of toxins through the kidneys, liver, and lymphatic system.

Burdock root contains:

  • Inulin – a prebiotic fiber that nourishes beneficial gut bacteria
  • Polyacetylenes – compounds with antimicrobial and antifungal effects
  • Phenolic acids and lignans – with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity
  • Tannins – which provide mild astringent and toning effects
  • Iron, magnesium, and potassium – supporting mineral replenishment during cleansing

Burdock is commonly used to:

  • Support liver function and detox pathways
  • Promote clear, healthy skin, especially in cases of acne, eczema, and psoriasis
  • Purify the blood and reduce systemic toxicity
  • Stimulate digestion and bile flow
  • Act as a mild diuretic and lymphatic cleanser
  • Reduce inflammation in chronic skin and joint conditions

It is consumed as decocted root tea, tincture, powdered extract, or lightly cooked food, especially in Japanese cuisine (where it's known as gobo).

Historical Use:

Burdock has a long-standing role in Western herbalism, where it was traditionally classified as a “blood purifier” used to cleanse toxins from the body, especially through the skin, liver, and urinary system. It was included in classic spring tonics and used by herbalists like Nicholas Culpeper for scurvy, ulcers, skin eruptions, and rheumatism.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, burdock seed (Niu Bang Zi) is used to clear heat and toxins, especially for sore throat, rashes, and fever, and is thought to disperse wind-heat pathogens from the body.

In Ayurvedic and Native American traditions, burdock was also recognized for its cooling, cleansing, and moistening properties, helping to balance inflammation and eliminate waste through the skin and kidneys.

Today, burdock is used in detox and skin health formulas, lymphatic and liver support blends, and as a nutrient-dense food for gut and metabolic health. Its gentle but deep-cleansing action makes it a favored herb in both traditional and modern naturopathic approaches to whole-body purification and vitality.

Uses: Health Conditions

Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Gout (Traditional)

Body Systems

Structural System (Traditional)
Appendix (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gall Bladder (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lymphatics (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)