Burdock (Arctium lappa) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Asia and Europe, for a variety of ailments, including joint-related conditions such as gout. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western herbalism have used burdock root as a "blood purifier" and diuretic, with the aim of helping the body eliminate toxins and excess fluids. In the context of gout—a condition characterized by elevated uric acid levels leading to joint inflammation—burdock has been employed to support the kidneys and promote uric acid excretion.

However, scientific validation for burdock’s effectiveness in treating or managing gout is limited. There are some laboratory studies showing that burdock root contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds (such as arctiin and lignans), which might theoretically help reduce inflammation associated with gout. But clinical studies in humans specifically examining burdock for gout are lacking. The evidence for its uricosuric (uric acid-lowering) effect is mostly anecdotal or derived from animal models, not robust human trials.

In summary, burdock’s use for gout is primarily rooted in traditional practice and historical precedent, with only preliminary scientific investigations to support possible anti-inflammatory or kidney-supportive effects. There is insufficient high-quality clinical evidence to recommend it as a primary therapy for gout, but it remains a popular adjunct in herbal traditions.