Burdock root, also known as Arctium lappa and sometimes called gobo, beggar’s buttons, love leaves, or clot-bur, is a bright pink-red to purple thistle-like flower with long stalks and huge hairy leaves that are native to Europe and Asia. Burdock root has been used throughout Western folk herbalism and traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, primarily for its cleansing and skin-smoothing properties. 

You might need burdock root if . . .  

•  You want to support liver health. 
•  You are looking for an herb with anti-inflammatory benefits. 
• You need a natural detoxifier. 

Benefits of Burdock Root  

•  Antioxidant properties 
• Anti-inflammatory properties 
• May lessen skin issues 
• May remove toxins from the blood

Common ways to use Burdock root 

You can find burdock in dried bulk, pills, powders, teas, extracts, or tinctures.

Growing and Foraging Information  

Burdock grows around much of the US and can be foraged easily. Do be sure to harvest from areas you have permission to be in and have not been sprayed with pesticide or herbicide.

Safety Concerns  

Drug Interaction: Burdock root may interact with medications. It could potentially enhance the effects of blood thinners, increase the effectiveness of diabetes medications, and interfere with diuretics. If you have any health concerns or are taking any prescription medication, please consult with your healthcare provider before adding new herbs to your diet.  

Breastfeeding and Pregnancy: The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines identifies burdock as a uterine stimulant, suggesting that burdock should not be used during pregnancy. However, please note that there are no reports of adverse reactions in the literature, which is likely only a theoretical concern.  

Other Concerns:   As per trusted herbalist Richard Whelan, there is healthy respect in the old teachings about burdock that this is an herb that can bring about a healing crisis (where things get worse before they get better) and that it is a powerful medicine that needs to be used with care and caution. 

Select Studies About Burdock Root 

Health Benefits of Burdock Root 

The roots of the burdock plant are believed to be the most beneficial part of the plant. 

Mechanistic insights on burdock (Arctium lappa L.) extract effects on diabetes mellitus 

Burdock root contains beneficial compounds that may help manage diabetes by improving glucose transport and insulin sensitivity, with no toxic effects observed in studies. Further research is needed to understand how these compounds work and to develop better extraction methods for their therapeutic use.