Burdock (Arctium lappa) is a plant native to Japan that is now found all over the world. The root is eaten as food. The root, leaf, and seed are used as medicine.
Burdock contains chemicals that might help fight bacteria and swelling. In traditional Chinese medicine, it's used to get rid of toxins and as a "blood purifier."
People use burdock for aging skin, stomach problems, joint swelling, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support its use.
Is It Effective?
There is interest in using burdock for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is it Safe?
When taken by mouth: Burdock is commonly consumed in foods. There isn't enough reliable information to know if burdock is safe when used as medicine or what the side effects might be.
When applied to the skin: Burdock is possibly safe when used for up to 4 weeks. It might cause an allergic reaction in people sensitive to certain flowers and herbs. It can also cause a rash.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if burdock is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Allergy to ragweed and related plants: Burdock may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others. If you have allergies, check with your healthcare provider before taking burdock.
Surgery: Burdock might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Stop taking it at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs)
Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
Burdock might slow blood clotting. Taking burdock along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Herbs and supplements that might slow blood clotting: Burdock might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Taking it with other supplements with similar effects might increase the risk of bleeding in some people. Examples of supplements with this effect include garlic, ginger, ginkgo, nattokinase, and Panax ginseng.
There are no known interactions with foods.
There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of burdock might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.
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