Burdock: Arctium lappa

Plant Family & Name:

a. Asteraceae

b. The genus name Artcium comes from the Latin verb arktos for "bear". The species name lappa comes from lappare which means "to seize". The fruits look like a fuzzy bear, and it grabs onto anything that passes by.

Habitat & Ecological role:

This plant flourishes in temperate climates, and grows best where there is rich soil but will grow in less favorable conditions as well. Burdock is often seen on farms where there has been a lot of disturbance. Burdock has a strong tap root that is utilized in permaculture for helping break up compacted soil, and grows large leaves that generate biomass and build soils. It is a restorative herb, just like we see with internal use of burdock in our bodies.

Burdock is a biannual, it will create leaves the first year and flower the next, once it flowers the plant dies back and does not return. It creates many seeds which are prolific and will create many plants quickly.

Herbal Actions: Alternative, mild bitter, hepatic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, diuretic, nutritive, lymphatic, diuretic, hepatoprotective.

Parts used: Root (Upton, 2009).

Season: Early to Mid Spring, harvested in second year.

Taste: Slightly bitter, sweet, slightly astringent.

Energetic Qualities: Cooling, moistening to surface dryness, drying to deep congestion, clear, mobile.

Indications: Skin inflammation disorders (acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes), autoimmune disease, malnutrition, deep liver stagnation, anemia, allergies.

Body system affinities: Integumentary, digestive, lymphatic, urinary, liver.

Key Points: Restorative, clearing, building. Burdock is a "sweet bitter" which means that this is a wonderful herb for people who need liver support but can't handle the bitterness/cold/mobile qualities of others.

Burdock is specific for skin issues as well, this is a primary herb for anything skin related.