Burdock

Burdock is a cleansing herb with a range of traditional and modern uses. While it offers many health benefits, it has a particular affinity for supporting the body’s detoxification and elimination channels, particularly the liver, kidneys, lymphatic systems and skin. By enhancing the function of these systems, Burdock helps to clear metabolic waste and toxins from the body. This action is beneficial for chronic inflammatory conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne. Burdock is helpful for conditions that benefit from improved waste removal, including rheumatism, arthritis and gout. Where the accumulation of inflammatory compounds such as uric acid contribute to pain and stiffness. Its blood-cleansing and anti-inflammatory actions make Burdock a valuable herb for acute flare ups and long-term support.

Yes, Burdock is revered for its positive effects on skin health. It is a depurative herb, often referred to as a blood purifier, that works by supporting the removal of internal toxins that can result in skin eruptions. By promoting blood circulation to the skins surface, Burdock helps to improve skin tone, texture and hydration. This is beneficial for dry, scaly and itchy skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Burdock possesses anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which have been shown to help manage acne by reducing infection and inflammation. Whether Burdock is taken internally or applied topically, it can help address the symptoms and underlying causes of many chronic skin conditions.

The root of the Burdock plant contains the highest concentration of active constituents and is the primary part used in herbal medicine. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, inulin (a prebiotic fibre), polyacetylenes with antimicrobial properties, antioxidant lignans and astringent tannins. The leaves and seeds are also used in Eastern and Western herbal medicine, as they contain bioactive compounds such as bitter principles in the leaves and lignans in the seeds. However, the root is the most potent part of the plant and is commonly used for detoxification, digestive support, and skin health.

Inulin
Inulin is a prebiotic fibre that serves as food for beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome.

It improves gut microbial balance, enhances digestion, supports regulation of blood glucose levels and indirectly supports immune health by modulating gut activity.

Lignans (arctiin and arctigenin).
Lignans exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity by inhibiting NF-κB pathways and supressing microbial replication.

Lignans have an inhibitory effect on nitric oxide (NO) production. Excessive NO levels are associated with chronic inflammatory conditions such as eczema, acne, dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune disorders.

Phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid).
Phenolic acids are powerful antioxidants that neutralise reactive oxidative species (ROS) and inhibit oxidative stress pathways. Slowing cellular aging and protecting tissues throughout the body.

Tannins.
Tannins bind to proteins, form protective layers around injured tissue and inhibit microbial enzymes. This action is beneficial when Burdock is applied topically to support wound healing and prevent infection.

When used internally, the astringent effect of tannins helps tighten and tone gut and skin tissue.

Polyacetylenes.
Polyacetylenes display antimicrobial action by rupturing microbial cell membranes and inhibiting microbial enzyme activity.

Beneficial for skin health when used internally and topically due to broad-spectrum antibacterial and anti-fungal activity.

Vitamins and minerals (vitamin C, potassium, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, iron and zinc).

Burdock root has a diverse nutrient profile. Rich in electrolytes for fluid balance and neurotransmitter functioning.

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, an essential co-factor for enzymatic activity and plays a key role in immune function.

Yes, Burdock grows prolifically throughout New Zealand. It is often found along roadsides, bush margins and waste areas. Despite its medicinal value, it is classified as a noxious weed due to its burs, which can contaminate sheep wool and injure livestock.

No, Burdock (Arctium lappa) and Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) are two distinct plants, although they both belong to the Asteraceae family and share similar physical characteristics. Both have large, spiny leaves and purple thistle-like flowers, but they differ in their medicinal actions and uses. Milk Thistle is primarily known for its liver-protective compound silymarin, while Burdock is used more broadly for detoxification, skin conditions, and metabolic support.

Yes, the root, flower and leaf of Burdock are edible. The root is highly valued in East Asian cuisine for its earthy, mildly sweet flavour. It can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried. The root is often prepared in stir-fries, soups, or pickled, and dried Burdock root is commonly consumed as a tea. Young leaves and flower stalks can also be eaten when cooked, although they tend to be more bitter.

For adults, it is not recommended to exceed a daily dose of 6 mL of a 1:2 liquid Burdock extract. Always follow dosage recommendations and consult with a naturopath or medical herbalist if using other medications or herbal products.

Yes, Burdock supports the liver detoxification. It helps regulate lipid metabolism, enhances bile secretion, and stimulates the liver’s phase one and two detox pathways, which are essential for breaking down and eliminating toxins. This makes it a valuable herb for supporting liver health, especially in cases of sluggish digestion, acne, or environmental toxin exposure.

Burdock may be a helpful aid in weight management, particularly when weight gain is related to metabolic dysfunction. The root is rich in inulin, a prebiotic fibre that helps regulate blood glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and support a healthy gut microbiome. Additionally, Burdock’s role in stimulating lipid metabolism and reducing systemic inflammation may further contribute to improved metabolic balance, making it a useful support for those aiming to manage their weight holistically.

Burdock root can have a mild laxative effect due to its inulin content. This dietary fibre promotes bowel movements by improving gut flora and softening stool.

Burdock can easily be grown in New Zealand's temperate climate. It prefers well-draining and loose soil rich in organic matter, ideally in a sunny location. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground in early spring or autumn. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. As the plant develops a long taproot, it is best to avoid transplanting once established.

In Auckland, it is not permitted to grow Burdock due to its status as a noxious weed.

The best time to plant Burdock in New Zealand is in early spring after the last frost, or in early autumn in warmer regions. It prefers cool temperatures for germination and early growth, so planting during these transitional seasons allows the plant to establish before extreme heat or cold. Sowing directly into well-prepared, loose soil ensures strong taproot development, which is key for harvesting a high-quality medicinal root.

In New Zealand, it is best to harvest Burdock in late summer to autumn. This is when the roots contain the highest concentration of active constituents, which are best used for herbal medicines. Harvesting Burdock at this time prevents the roots from becoming woody, ensuring a tender consistency for culinary purposes. Regular weeding and deep soil preparation help promote healthy root growth.

Chan, Y.-S., Cheng, L.-N., Wu, J.-H., Chan, E., Kwan, Y.-W., Lee, S. M.-Y., Leung, G. P.-H., Yu, P. H.-F., & Chan, S.-W. (2010). A review of the pharmacological effects of Arctium lappa (Burdock). Inflammopharmacology, 19(5), 245–254. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10787-010-0062-4

Ma, K., Sheng, W., Song, X., Song, J., Li, Y., Huang, W., & Liu, Y. (2023). Chlorogenic acid from Burdock roots ameliorates oleic acid-induced steatosis in HepG2 cells through AMPK/ACC/CPT-1 pathway. Molecules, 28(21), 7257. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28217257

Miazga-Karska, M., Michalak, K., & Ginalska, G. (2020). Anti-acne action of peptides isolated from Burdock root-preliminary studies and pilot testing. Molecules, 25(9). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25092027

Mo, L., Ma, K., Li, Y., Song, J., Song, Q., & Wang, L. (2025). Dietary fibre from Burdock root ameliorates functional constipation in aging rats by regulating intestinal motility. Frontiers in Nutrition, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2025.1550880

Qin, Z.-B., Ding, L.-F., Wang, X., Huang, L.-J., Liang, M., Bin, J., Luo, N., Deng, L., & Guo, Y.-D. (2019). Lignans from the seeds of Arctium lappa L. (Burdock) and their inhibitory effects on nitric oxide production. Phytochemistry Letters, 34, 43–49. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phytol.2019.09.006

Zhang, X., Herrera-Balandrano, D. D., Huang, W., Chai, Z., Trust Beta, Wang, J., Feng, J., & Li, Y. (2021). Comparison of nutritional and nutraceutical properties of Burdock roots cultivated in Fengxian and Peixian of China. Foods, 10(9), 2095. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10092095