HERBS: Burdock

Burdock

Arctium majus

Lappa, edible burdock, gobo, wild gobo, happy major

To stimulate the appetite: No scientific evidence supports this use.
To treat arthritis: No scientific evidence supports this use.�
To treat cancer: No scientific evidence supports this use.�
To detoxify the body: No scientific evidence supports this use.�
To lower blood sugar in diabetes: Although studies in animals show this effect, there is no proof from clinical trials that burdock can treat diabetes.�
To treat eczema and psoriasis: No scientific evidence supports this use.�
To maintain general health: No scientific evidence supports this use.
To treat HIV and AIDS: No scientific evidence supports this use.�
To treat microbial infections: Although certain compounds in burdock are able to stop the growth of bacteria and fungi in the test tube, laboratory results are not always transferable to the human body. There is no proof from�clinical trials that burdock can treat infections.
To promote urination: No scientific evidence supports this use.

Burdock tea has been contaminated with belladonna alkaloids (atropine). Products should be certified against contamination.

Hypoglycemics: Theoretically, large doses of burdock may have an additive effect.

1. Newall CA, et al. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press; 1996.

2. Foster S, et al. Tyler’s Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies. New York: Hawthorn Herbal Press; 1999.