Health Benefits of Burdock

Burdock is a variation of thistle that is grown widespread all over England and Scotland, however less so in other parts of Europe. As you might expect, it has a rich history in English herbology and culture and its name came from the Anglo-Saxons and with references in Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’. Although mainly located in England, a very resembling type of burdock also grows wild in Japan (thus the herb’s popularity in Asian recipes). It is a distinctive thistle-like plant with large dark leaves and prickly brown burrs that can easily cling to dressing/clothing.Burdock is definitely beneficial in skin complaints but is also sometimes used for respiratory issues and as a diuretic.


Medicinal Uses for Burdock

Burdock oil is radically distinguished in Europe as a soothing scalp treatment. Applying it routinely to your scalp can help reduce hair loss, strengthen hair and alleviate irritation. It is also fantastic at stopping flaky scalps and dandruff. Although it doesn’t grow wild in China, Burdock has became a popular remedy there also. It is used not only for hair loss but also by pregnant women, as it is acclaimed to increase lactation.In addition, Burdock has diuretic properties that can aid with hypertension and some kidney disorders.

Other Uses for Burdock

A popular beverage in England is Dandelion and Burdock, which has the sweet taste and aroma of the Burdock root to good effect.It is naturally fizzy and sometimes collated with Gin.The Japanese Burdock is used generously in Asian cuisine, sautéed with carrots in a sauce of soy, sesame oil and sugar. It is occasionally  placed in sushi rolls. In European/American cuisine, Burdock got a boost from its inclusion in the popular Macrobiotic Diet. As a low calorie, nutritious food that is high in natural fiber. Burdock is  surely becoming increasingly popular. Burdock was the inspiration for modern Velcro- a Swiss inventor called George de Mestral had noticed the way the Burdock burrs stuck to clothes. He took the unique hook-and-loop system, reproduced it in plastic, and came up with one of the great modern inventions.

How to Take Brudock

The Burdock root is the part of the herb that is used in herbology. Most retailers stock and sell it as an oil for easy application for the scalp.