Burdock

Herbal Constituents and Uses | Contraindications

Common Name:	Burdock	Photo Gallery
Genus / Species:	Arctium lappa
Part Used:	Seed, root
Energetics:	Seed - Bitter, sweet, cold Root - Bitter, slightly sweet, cool
Meridians:	Seed - lungs, stomach, liver, kidneys Root - Spleen, stomach, kidney, liver
Active Constituents	Bitter glycosides including arctiopicrin Flavonoids including arctiin Tannins Polyacetylenes Volatile oil Inulin (up to 45%) Sesquiterpenes
Medicinal Use:	Cleansing Immune tonic Antibiotic Antiseptic Hepatic Bile stimulant Pancreas/spleen support Mild diuretic
Dose:	Tincture, decoction, compress, poultice, ointment. S.F. Tincture 1tsp/5mls, 3 to 4 times daily. A.C. Tincture 20 drops in water, 2 to 3 times daily for up to 4 weeks.

Contraindications

1) Excess internal use of this herb should be avoided during pregnancy, due to its oxytoxic effect (E) and its possible uterine stimulant action.
2) This herb may interact with insulin and dosage should be monitored.
3) Burdock is not generally used as a single tincture, due to its strong detoxifying effects. Preferably it should be combined with a diuretic, traditionally Dandelion, being 1 part Burdock to 2 or 3 parts Dandelion.

The information contained in these pages is an indication of possible contraindications, but if you are at all concerned about any herb and its suitability for personal use please contact a herbal practitioner in your area or contact us.