Burdock root: medicinal properties and contraindications

Burdock root is a plant that receives several names, but scientifically it is called Artctium Lappa , also known by other names such as: burdock, cadillo, cachorrera. Geographically, it is more common on the European continent and can grow to around two meters in height.

It is an easily recognizable plant for its characteristic color, which is purple, in addition to having spikes on the stem. This plant is considered a widely used medicinal herb today, due to its excellent medicinal properties , however, it has been used for a long time. The root of this plant provides medicinal benefits being taken as an infusion.

It is a plant that has been considered medicinal since ancient times, however, its properties are provided only by the root. Next, we list what are all the medicinal properties of burdock root:

• It contains iron, potassium, calcium, chromium, flavonoids, chlorogenic acid and other vitamins, providing the person who consumes it with a series of supplements that promote their general health. In addition to this, burdock root is diuretic, laxative and induces perspiration, thus eliminating any toxin contained within the body.
• At the stomach level, burdock root is capable of stimulating appetite and digestion and in proportion to this it fights any stomach problem, because it has general functions in the body by attacking any impurity or toxin within the body. In addition, it helps to strengthen the stomach and improves gas problems .
• Infections: it is very useful to counteract some types of skin infections , such as furunculosis , dermatosis or some seborrheic skin conditions, this is because it has healing properties, in addition to helping it to look fresher and healthier. Besides, as it is a diuretic root, it increases urinary flow, which favors in cases of mild urinary infections.
• Joint problems: Helps relieve arthritis pain , for example, which is very good because it allows the person to go about their daily activities. This is because burdock root belongs to the group of anti-inflammatory herbs and that is why it is considered a treatment of choice in case of joint problems, since it reduces the symptoms they produce.
• In the hair: combats or prevents hair loss , in addition to strengthening it by eliminating or reducing dandruff and avoiding itching, because the root stimulates the blood circulation present in the scalp.

In summary, it could be said that the main benefits of burdock root for health are:

• It is a plant with a purifying function.
• Reduces inflammation.
• Fight edema.
• Avoid stone formation.
• Relieves pain.
• It is good for the skin, at least for fighting acne.
• Recommended in diabetic people because it controls blood sugar levels.
• It is antiseptic, antibacterial, antibiotic and healing.
• It helps to improve the health of the liver, kidneys, gallbladder and to purify the blood.

Burdock root, despite its excellent medicinal properties, has its contraindications, as well as some side effects that should be known. These are:

First, it is contraindicated in pregnant women because burdock root stimulates the uterus, which can be harmful to the fetus or when breastfeeding. It is also not recommended in people allergic to the composite family. It should not be used in hypertensive people or with heart disease , only if the doctor recommends it.

More than contraindications, burdock root has side effects , such as:

• If used on the skin, it can cause allergic reactions, even handling the plant without gloves can cause allergies.
• If taken orally, it can cause increased urination in the person. This is why it is not recommended in pregnant women.
• It can increase or decrease a person’s blood sugar levels, that is why before taking the root being diabetic, you should consult your doctor, because although it can help other conditions, it can also affect your health.
• Decrease heart rate.
• Dry mouth

The steps to make a burdock tea are:

1. Add 1 teaspoon of burdock root for every cup of water.
2. The water should be hot and let it sit for at least 4 minutes.
3. Strain the preparation.
4. Drink little by little as it cools down.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

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