Although its name suggests a
relation to Docks, burdock is a member of the thistle family. Its most notable
feature is its seeds head, or burs, which attach themselves to animals and
clothes.
Healing uses:
Burdock is excellent for treating
a wide range of skin problems, including eczema, acne, boils, psoriasis, styes
and herpes. Bring 2 litres of water to the boil, and add 3 tablespoons of cut,
dried burdock root. Reduce the temperature and simmer for 7 minutes. Remove
from the heat, cover and allow to steep for 2 hours. This can be drunk as a
tea, and also used as a wash for the affected areas of the skin. The tea works
by cleansing sweat and oil gland from within, and so is excellent as a general
detoxicant as well. Regular consumption of this tea is also beneficial for
easing constipation, reducing cholesterol and, as a mouthwash, healing mouth
ulcers. Including an equal portion of dandelion root to the tea which eases
pain associated with arthritis, gout and rheumatism.
A poultice of crushed or wet
burdock leaves reduces the swelling of glands caused by colds and flu's. It is
also effective for alleviate swelling associated with sprains. Burdock can be
used in combination with catnip to eliminate kidney stones and gallstones. This
is a fairly involved process, but well worth it, as it will move even the most
stubborn stones. Add 2 tablespoons of chopped root, either fresh or dried, to
boiling water. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from the heat and
add 3 teaspoons of chopped catnip. Leave for 1 hour, then strain. Take in 1 cup
doses, adding 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup to
sweeten. Drink the mixture very slowly, and follow with a teaspoon of pure
olive oil 10 minutes later. Repeat this three times daily until the stones are
gone. While undertaking this Ayurvedic
Treatment, do not consume fried foods, refined carbohydrates or red meat.
Other uses:
As well as being a beneficial
medicinal herb, burdock The young leaf-stalks can be cooked and used in the
same way as celery. The roots can be used raw in salads, cooked like carrots or
added to stir-fries.
Growing burdock:
Burdock can be grown from seed, which should be sown
in Spring. It grows best in moist, alkaline soil in the sun. In favourable
conditions, it will freely self-seed. The young leaf stalks should be gathered
in spring. The roots are harvested in autumn and if being used for medicinal,
rather than culinary, purposes, should be dried in a well-ventilated space
