Burdock
The plant's diuretic effect has
made it a traditional remedy for gout and kidney stones. It has also
been used in rheumatic conditions. Its main use is as an alterative or
blood cleanser to remove waste products from the body, and it is
employed to treat conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, boils, and other
skin complaints. Burdock lowers blood sugar levels, and the arctigenin
has been shown to be effective against tumors. The fresh root is thought
to have an antibiotic quality, probably due to the polyacetylenes. In
China it is used for catarrhal conditions and when there is a fever,
cough and sore throat, and in infective diseases such as mumps and the
early stages of measles. Burdock also stimulates the digestion and aids
the liver, and in China is a remedy for constipation. The Chinese
properties are acrid, bitter, and cold.
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