Burdock Benefits: A Plant With Many Medicinal Uses

Burdock is a prominent plant in herbal medicine due to its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. We tell you why it can be useful in treating various infections and health problems.

The benefits of burdock have been used since ancient times as a supplement to combat and prevent some health problems. This plant, whose scientific name is Arctium lappa , is characterized by its elongated leaves and purplish flowers.

Some people use it as an ally of beauty, since both its roots and its shoots and stems have antioxidant substances that could help regenerate and protect the skin. Do you know what this plant is used for? We tell you what its main properties are and how to prepare it.

Medicinal properties of burdock

This plant, native to Europe, usually grows wild on the edge of roads, in bushes or areas near inhabited places. Today, it is known in many parts of the world, as its active principles are still used medicinally.

In most natural remedies with burdock, the root is used. However, its leaves and seeds also have properties that can be used for various therapeutic purposes.

And, although some do not know it, the plant provides an interesting concentration of essential nutrients that give it various effects on the body. Additionally, its antioxidant effects may help combat free radical damage.

In relation to this, research published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis indicates that burdock root contains multiple types of antioxidants. These include quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids.

What are the health benefits of burdock?

It is not surprising that, due to its interesting properties, burdock provides health benefits. Even though many still do not know it, it has been used for hundreds of years for its medicinal benefits. Here are some of the most important ones.

Improves urinary health

One of the most prominent benefits of burdock is that it helps maintain urinary health. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and diuretic properties, it helps to improve urine output to more easily remove some germs that cause infections.

In relation to this, an article in the journal Urolithiasis points out that the extracts of this root limit the proliferation of germs that are formed from the accumulation and adhesion to different surfaces. This is one of the main causes of urinary tract infection.

Helps treat fluid retention

The diuretic properties of burdock are said to be used to help treat fluid retention, also known as edema. In this situation, diuretics help to eliminate excess water from the body through urine.

Helps control hypertension

According to research published in Frontiers in Pharmacology on antihypertensive herbs and their mechanisms of action, among many other ailments, burdock might help control high blood pressure.

This is due to the fact that this plant has reactive oxygen species scavenging activity. These are a set of free radicals that, in large quantities, can be harmful to cell structures.

Could decrease wrinkles

Thanks to its properties, burdock can dramatically improve the appearance of the skin. According to research published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine , this is due to the anti-elastase and anti-tyrosinase activity of its extract, which makes it beneficial for treating wrinkles.

It favors the treatment of gastric ulcer

The presence of the Helicobacter Pylori bacteria is one of the main causes of gastric ulcer. An article in the journal Genomic Medicine, Biomarkers, and Health Sciences suggests that burdock’s antibacterial properties may protect the gastrointestinal mucosa from the effects of H. Pylori.

How can you take advantage of the benefits of burdock?

There are several options to take advantage of the benefits of burdock. First, it can be purchased in tinctures or extracts for consumption and external use. Also, as we will show you right away , it can be found in its natural state for the preparation of infusions.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of burdock (8 g).
• 1 cup of water (250 ml).

Preparation

• Pour a teaspoon of burdock into a cup of boiling water.
• Cover the drink and let it rest for 10 minutes.
• Strain the infusion and consume it in case of presenting any of the conditions described in the previous list.

Note: Externally, apply it on wounds, sebaceous cysts or burns.

Contraindications of burdock

Burdock, in general, is a safe plant in the treatment of many common conditions. Despite this, it is essential to use it with some caution, especially considering the following contraindications.

• Patients with hypertension, diabetes and hypoglycemia should use it under medical supervision, as it can cause decompensation if drug treatments are also followed.
• It is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation due to its tannin content.
• It can cause an allergic reaction to someone who is sensitive to the asteraceae family.

Have you ever used burdock as a natural remedy? If you did not know its properties, do not hesitate to take advantage of it from now on. Remember that there are no miracle remedies and this is no exception. If in doubt, it is best to go to the doctor.