Greater burdock (Arctium lappa) is an herb with a long history of use. Primarily the root is used, but other plant parts have reported traditional uses. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia with introduction to North America in the 1600’s. Burdock can be found along roadsides, old fields, stream banks, and the edges of lawns and woodlands. Frequently cultivated areas discourage its growth. It produces a large seed with tiny hooks and has leaves similar to those found on the rhubarb plant.

Burdock has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for a large range of medicinal benefits including elimination of accumulated toxins, use as a tissue “cleanser,” providing liver and gastrointestinal support, treating skin disorders, and for management of chronic inflammatory conditions. Many cultures have used burdock as a food. Native Americans also used burdock for food, as a blood purifier, and for treating sores. Burdock was listed until 1916 as a diuretic in the US Pharmacopeia.

Modern studies have shown a wide range of biological effects. As with other herbs, the specific effects are dose dependent and are affected by the length of time the herb components are in contact with the target tissue. Identified biological effects include anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and antidiabetic properties, benefits for the digestive tract, support for the liver, improvements in skin conditions, and assistance with management of osteoarthritis. Burdock root also contains inulin and fructooligosaccharides, important prebiotics, that have effects for the gut microbiome. In addition to its medicinal properties, burdock also has a range of vitamins (i.e. C, folate), minerals (i.e. potassium, calcium, magnesium), and antioxidants like quercetin and luteolin. With this range of effects it is easy to see why burdock is such an important medicinal herb.

The blood cleansing (detoxifying) properties and diuretic effects are important for general body support and also for addressing some impacts of our current environment. These detoxifying effects are promoted by certain polyphenol and lignan compounds found in burdock root. In addition to the enhanced liver detoxification processes, burdock increases bile flow. This can be a valuable part of detoxification. Benefits for the liver are further increased by burdock components that act as prebiotics that benefit a balanced intestinal microbiome. The anti-inflammatory effects of burdock can play an important role in supporting liver health by assisting management of the inflammation that is a consistent and ongoing component of liver processes. This inflammation needs to be managed as a valuable part of liver support. The diuretic effects of burdock can assist with the blood cleansing effect by promoting increased elimination of toxins through the urine.

Burdock has shown benefits for a range of skin disorders including allergies. Effects are thought to be a combination of the blood cleansing properties, antioxidant effects, improved intestinal microbiome, and better blood flow to the skin tissues. These effects also contribute to improved immune functions and may account for why it is used for such a wide range of skin problems.

Some research reports improvements in management of joint degeneration with reductions in inflammation and better comfort. Other research shows some benefit for cats as a mild antitussive.

As with many herbs, combining burdock with other herbs can increase the desired medicinal effects. Burdock is commonly combined with cleavers, yellow dock, sheep sorrel, and others. It is considered a safe herb. However, it is possible to have allergic reactions to burdock.

If you have questions about your pet, contact your veterinarian. If you have questions about herbs for your pet contact a veterinary herbalist.

Ron Carsten, DVM, PhD, CVA, CCRT was one of the first veterinarians in Colorado to use the integrative approach, has lectured widely to veterinarians, and has been a pioneer in the therapeutic use of food concentrates to manage clinical problems. He is also the founder of Colorado Animal Rescue (CARE). In addition to his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, he holds a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology and is a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist and Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist. He practices integrative veterinary medicine in Glenwood Springs. Dr. Carsten is the 2022 Colorado Veterinary Medical Association Distinguished Service Award recipient.