Burdock

Burdock is (Arctium lappa) is classified as an 'alterative' or 'depurative'. This class of herbs cleanses the blood and lymphatics and, in the case of Burdock, the blood via increased kidney action. It is therefore a diuretic but also has a diaphoretic action (promotes sweat). The root of the plant is used and it is one of the best blood purifiers for conditions of the skin such as boils, acne, psoriasis and eczema, especially in it's dry, scaling phase.

The action of Burdock is due to the presence of bitter glycosides such as arctiopicrin, flavonoids, tannin, mucilage and inulin. It also has antimicrobial properties which can prevent the infective phase of eczema and reduce the bacteria present in boils and acne. Inulin also has an immune stimulating action which adds to Burdock's infection fighting action. As Burdock cleases the blood of metabolic or inflammatory substances it is also effective for inflammatory joint conditions such as arthritis and gout.

References

1. Bone, K (2007) The Ultimate Herbal Compendium: A Desktop Guide for Herbal Prescribers. Phytotherapy Press: Warwick, Australia.

2. Pengelly, A (2004) The Constituents of Medicinal Plants. CABI Publishing: Washington, USA.

3. Mills, S. (1988) The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism: A Comprehensive Guide to Practical Herbal Therapy. Healing Arts Press: Vermont.

4. Wiess, R.F. (2001) Weiss’s Herbal Medicine: Classic Edition. Thieme: New York

5. Wren, RC, Williamson, EM, Evans, FJ (1998) Potter's New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations. The CW Daniel Company Ltd: Essex, UK