8 Benefits Of Burdock Root, Nutritional Facts, & Side Effects

For generations, edible roots have been essential components of a healthy diet. Horseradish, onion, carrot, ginger, ginseng, and turnip are among the well-known roots that have contributed to human well-being. However, recent recognition of the impressive benefits of burdock root has elevated its status as a valuable addition to this esteemed list. This ancient root holds the potential to support the lymphatic, digestive, and urinary systems, along with offering a host of other significant health advantages. To delve deeper into the numerous benefits of burdock root, keep reading.

What Is Burdock Root?

Burdock root is the underground part of the burdock plant (scientifically known as Arctium lappa), which is a biennial plant native to Europe and Asia. It is also commonly found in North America. The burdock plant is recognizable by its large, heart-shaped leaves and prickly burrs that easily attach to clothing and animal fur, aiding in seed dispersal.

The root of the burdock plant is long, slender, and brown on the outside, while its inner flesh is whitish or beige. Burdock root has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and culinary practices in various cultures.

In traditional herbal medicine, burdock root is prized for its potential health benefits and is believed to possess properties that can support various bodily systems. It is rich in beneficial compounds such as inulin, polyphenols, and essential oils.

Burdock root is known for its earthy and slightly sweet flavor, and it can be prepared and consumed in several ways. It is often used in cooking, where it can be sautéed, boiled, or added to soups and stews. Additionally, burdock root is available as a supplement, tincture, or dried root for herbal preparations.

The potential health benefits of burdock root are attributed to its various bioactive compounds, which may offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other beneficial effects. It is commonly used in traditional herbal medicine to support the lymphatic system, promote healthy digestion, and aid in detoxification processes.

As with any herbal remedy, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified herbalist before using burdock root for medicinal purposes, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Benefits Of Burdock Root

# Prevents Hair Fall

The human scalp is home to approximately 150,000 hair follicles, with approximately 80-90% of them being in the active growth phase (anagen) at any given time, while the remaining follicles are in the resting phase (telogen). The ratio of anagen to telogen follicles determines the extent of hair fall experienced. Fortunately, burdock roots offer a solution as they contain tannins, fiber (inulin), essential fatty acids, and vitamins that can promote hair growth and address excessive hair fall.

How to Apply:

To harness the hair benefits of burdock roots, you have two options. One method involves boiling burdock roots in your regular hair oil to infuse it with the root's goodness. Alternatively, you can utilize burdock root tincture by adding it to water and applying it directly to your scalp for the desired effects.

# Purifies Blood

The key to achieving healthy skin and hair lies in maintaining pure and healthy blood, and burdock root plays a significant role in this process. Packed with antioxidants and flavonoids like quercetin, burdock root acts as a vigilant defender, seeking out toxic ions and harmful microbes in your bloodstream and eliminating them. This natural detoxification process purifies your blood, ridding it of impurities and potential infections, resulting in overall well-being!

How to Incorporate Burdock Root:

To reap the benefits of burdock root, you can easily brew a small cup of tea using burdock root powder or crushed burdock root, much like making ginger tea. This burdock root tea not only benefits your skin but also aids in detoxifying your internal organs, supporting your overall health. Additionally, you may consider chewing on some raw, cleaned burdock root, complemented with a pinch of sea salt, to experience its goodness firsthand.

# Burdock Root Has Anti-aging And Anti-inflammatory Properties

Due to its influence on the blood and circulatory system, burdock root directly impacts skin health. Its active compounds, including arctiin and lignans, possess matrix-stimulating properties, promoting supple and youthful-looking skin while also providing relief from inflammation. Additionally, burdock root's blood-purifying activity makes it effective in combating acne and eczema.

How to Apply:

To harness the skin benefits of burdock root, you can create a simple burdock root pack. Just mix dried burdock root powder with water to form a paste and apply it like any other face pack. This easy-to-use burdock root pack will help revitalize and nourish your skin, leaving it looking radiant and healthy.

# Prevents and Combats Cancer

According to a 2011 study, burdock root extract exhibits potential in combating specific types of cancers, particularly those affecting the liver and pancreas. These roots possess anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties attributed to caffeoylquinic acid derivatives. These derivatives directly target proliferating cancer cells, impeding their metastasis.

How to Incorporate:

To reduce the risk of cancer and aid in early-stage cancer treatment, include burdock root or its extract in your diet in any form that suits your preference. This versatile approach allows you to harness the potential anti-cancer benefits of burdock root as a natural dietary addition. As with any health condition, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and to integrate burdock root into your diet safely and effectively.

Enhances Organ Health and Strengthens Immune System

Burdock roots exhibit a hepatoprotective effect, thanks to their caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, offering protection to the liver and its cells. Individuals with liver injuries caused by alcohol or drug abuse can benefit from consuming burdock roots in regulated doses.

For those dealing with an enlarged spleen, indicating compromised immunity, burdock root comes to the rescue! By purifying the blood, which is filtered by the spleen, burdock root indirectly cleanses and safeguards this vital organ.

How to Incorporate:

To experience the positive effects on organ health and immunity, prepare a concoction of burdock roots boiled with other herbs like ginseng or licorice roots in water. Consume this concoction in small, measured doses for optimal results. As always, consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating burdock root into your routine is advisable, especially if you have any specific health concerns or medical conditions.

# Treats PCOS and Regulates Menstrual Cycles

The prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women has increased significantly, but burdock roots have been utilized in traditional Asian and African medicine to address menstrual irregularities.

By combatting free radicals and oxidative stress in the bloodstream through its effects on the liver and spleen, burdock root helps regulate the secretion of estrogen and progesterone. This contributes to reducing hormonal imbalances, a common underlying cause of PCOS in women.

How to Incorporate:

To experience relief from menstrual cramps and irregular periods, you can consume a concoction or tea made from burdock root or even eat the raw root in small portions.

# Promotes Kidney Health

Among the numerous benefits of burdock root, it exhibits diuretic properties. Acting as a diuretic, burdock root promotes increased urine production and aids in blood purification, preventing fluid retention and toxin accumulation in the body. This eases the workload on the kidneys and ensures their optimal functioning.

How to Incorporate:

To detoxify the urinary system and prevent the formation of kidney and gallbladder stones, incorporate small portions of burdock root into your daily meals.

Supports Digestion and Nutrient Absorption

A study highlights that inulin, a dietary fiber found in plants like burdock, fosters the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Consequently, incorporating burdock root into your diet acts as a prebiotic, aiding in improved digestion and better assimilation of essential nutrients in your gut.

Nutritional Value

Burdock root is a nutrient-dense vegetable that offers a variety of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds. Here is the approximate nutritional value of 100 grams of raw burdock root:

Calories: 72 kcal
Carbohydrates: 17.34 grams
Dietary Fiber: 3.3 grams
Sugars: 3.33 grams
Protein: 1.53 grams
Fat: 0.15 grams
Vitamin B6: 0.3 mg (15% of the Daily Value - DV)
Vitamin C: 3.1 mg (5% of the DV)
Iron: 1.66 mg (9% of the DV)
Potassium: 308 mg (9% of the DV)
Magnesium: 51 mg (13% of the DV)
Phosphorus: 51 mg (5% of the DV)
Manganese: 0.25 mg (12% of the DV)

Side Effects of Burdock Root

Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to burdock root or plants from the Asteraceae family, such as ragweed, daisies, or chrysanthemums. Allergic reactions may include skin rashes, itching, hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you have known allergies to these plants, avoid burdock root consumption.

Interactions with Medications: Burdock root may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and diabetes medications. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using burdock root if you are taking any prescription medications.

Diuretic Effect: Burdock root has diuretic properties, which means it can increase urine production and may lead to frequent urination in some individuals. This effect can also lead to electrolyte imbalances if not consumed in moderation.

Gastrointestinal Distress: In some cases, excessive consumption of burdock root or its supplements may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including upset stomach, bloating, and diarrhea.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using burdock root as there is limited research on its safety during these stages.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Burdock root may have an effect on blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes or those taking medications to control blood sugar levels should monitor their blood glucose levels closely if consuming burdock root.