Abstract
Arctium L. is a genus of plants commonly known as burdock, family Asteraceae. Native to the Old World, several species have been widely introduced worldwide.
Plants of the genus Arctium have dark green leaves that can grow up to 70 cm long. Arctium species generally flower from July through to October.
The prickly heads of these plants (burrs) are noted for easily catching on to fur and clothing, thus providing an excellent mechanism for seed dispersal. Burdocks are not toxic, however, most animals avoid ingesting these plants.
Burdock is a traditional medicinal herb and its roots and fruits are used for centuries to treat a host of ailments. It has been used as a “blood purifier”, to clear the bloodstream of toxins, as a diuretic (helping rid the body of excess water by increasing urine output), and as a topical remedy for skin problems such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, burdock is often used with other herbs for sore throat and colds. Extracts of burdock root are found in a variety of herbal preparations, as well as homeopathic remedies.
Burdock root oil extract, also called Bur oil, is currently used in Europe under the belief that it is a useful scalp treatment. In Japan and some parts of Europe, young burdock plants can be harvested and eaten as a root vegetable.
Burdock contains inulin, a natural dietary fiber, and has also been used traditionally to improve digestion. In fact, recent studies confirm that burdock has prebiotic properties that could improve health.
Despite the fact that burdock has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, very few scientific studies have examined burdock’s effects.