Features

• Burdock is a plant with large, heart-shaped leaves, round purple flowers and burrs that stick to clothing. The plant grows three to four feet in height.
  
  

Uses

• The fruit, leaves, seeds and root of burdock have all been used medicinally to treat a variety of ailments such as gout, rheumatism and stomach ailments. It can also be applied topically to treat skin conditions.
  
  

Components

• The University of Maryland Medical Center says that the active ingredient in burdock remains uncertain, but researchers believe the plant may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Burdock consists mostly of tannins, sterols and carbohydrates, as well as fatty and volatile oils.
  
  

Available Forms

• The Drugs website says that burdock root is considered an edible product. Burdock is available in several forms, including capsule, dried or fresh root, powdered, tincture or fluid extract.
  
  

Precautions

• Burdock may stimulate uterine action and should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women. There is no known documentation regarding pediatric use so burdock should not be given to children. The herb may lower blood pressure and increase the strength of diuretic medication. People who are sensitive to chrysanthemum, ragweed or daisies may experience an allergic reaction to burdock.