Family Name: Compositae
Botanical Name(s): Arctium Lappa
Popular Name(s): Bardana, Burrseed, Clotbur, Cocklebur, Grass
Burdock, Hardock
Parts Used: Root, Herb and Seeds.
Habitat: Burdock is native to Asia and Europe.
Description: A stout handsome plant, with large, wavy leaves and
round heads of purple flowers. The whole plant is a dull, pale green and
the stem about 3 to 4 feet and branched, rising from a biennial root.
The lower leaves are very large, on long, solid footstalks, furrowed
above, frequently more than a foot long heart-shaped and of a gray
color.
Uses: In traditional herbal texts, Burdock root is described as
a blood purifier or alterative. Burdock root was believed to clear the
bloodstream of toxins. It was used both internally and externally for
eczema and psoriasis as well as to treat painful joints and as a
diuretic. Burdock root has recently become popular as a part of a tea to
treat cancer. Till date, only minimal research has substantiated this
application.
