• Nutritional value of burdock
• The use of burdock
• Cleansing and regenerating properties
• Antidiabetic effect
• Another use of burdock
• Contraindications
• Summary
• Bibliography

Burdock has been used in natural medicine for centuries. Burdock root is particularly valuable. Currently, burdock can be found almost all over the world, including Poland. While it's a popular salad ingredient among Asians, it's considered a common weed in Poland. Despite this shortcoming, it's still widely used as an ingredient, primarily in cosmetics. But it's worth knowing that it's suitable for more than just scalp care or acne-prone skin. Burdock belongs to the daisy family, and both smaller and larger varieties are widely used because they exhibit the most beneficial health effects.

Nutritional value of burdock

100 grams of raw burdock root contains approximately 72 kcal, the vast majority of which, with almost 18 grams, are carbohydrates. Protein accounts for 1.5 grams, while fat accounts for the smallest amount, at 0.15 grams each. It also contains no more than 3.5 grams of fiber.

Its main benefit is its high antioxidant content, which prevents the negative effects of free oxygen radicals. Burdock root contains plant phytosterols, which are especially important for people struggling with high levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood. It also contains many essential oils, organic acids, and mineral salts, such as phosphorus and sulfur, as well as vitamins A and C. Burdock is also rich in resinous and protein compounds. One of its most important ingredients is inulin, a polysaccharide used to support the treatment of insulin resistance and diabetes.

The use of burdock

The medicinal use of this plant is primarily based on its root. This can be done in several ways. The most popular is a decoction of boiled burdock roots for drinking or of burdock leaves soaked in oil, which is mainly applied topically to the skin. In addition, we also find burdock root extracts, various oils, juices, syrups, and even creams.

Cleansing and regenerating properties

Thanks to its content of substances such as inulin and polyenes, it can be helpful for skin conditions such as acne or seborrhea. Burdock's healing, antibiotic properties also help with dry skin, ulcers, impetigo, and are helpful in the treatment of psoriasis and eczema. It also strengthens hair follicles , thickening them and increasing hair thickness. It is also said to prevent excessive hair loss . attributed to , therefore it is often a component of regenerating shampoos or conditioners.

It also cleanses the entire body of toxins and increases the rate of excretion of metabolic waste products. It has a positive effect on the functioning of the liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system, removing toxins from them and increasing their efficiency. The substances contained in burdock root have antibiotic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Decoctions and extracts of burdock are excellent as a natural immunity booster. They can also prevent bacterial infections of the mouth and gums. Interestingly, it also has a soothing effect on bite sites. A crushed burdock leaf applied to a sore spot significantly reduces burning and possible erythema.

Antidiabetic effect

Burdock infusions are especially beneficial for diabetics or those trying to lower their blood sugar levels. This plant is perfect for this thanks to its inulin content. It's a complex sugar that can be absorbed by diabetics because it's broken down into fructose rather than glucose in the body. In addition, it lowers blood sugar levels and guarantees the restoration of normal bacterial flora in the intestines.

Another use of burdock

Due to its cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties, burdock can be helpful in the treatment of rheumatism and gout. It prevents excessive accumulation of urea in the joints and relieves rheumatic pain.

It supports digestion by increasing the secretion of bile and mucus in the stomach. It also reduces excessive secretion of gastric juice, thus improving digestion. This property is also important in cases of inflammation of the digestive system, liver disease, or digestive problems.

An interesting fact is that some time ago, burdock and products containing it were popular in France as skin lightening agents. The mixture was made from burdock and other active ingredients, but is no longer used today.

Contraindications

Burdock is a very safe herb. There have been no cases of its use leading to serious complications. However, it is not recommended for pregnant women, as high doses can contribute to increased uterine function. Pregnant women should always be cautious with herbal supplements and discuss this decision with a doctor beforehand.

Summary

Burdock can be an excellent supplement due to its safety and versatility. Furthermore, it's becoming increasingly popular, which is why we can find many products on the market that meet our needs. Those looking to strengthen their hair, get rid of acne, or take preventative measures will find products containing burdock in a practical version.

Bibliography:

1. Jindrich Krejča, Jan Macků: Atlas of Medicinal Plants . Warsaw: Zakl. no. Sie. Ossoliński, 1989. ISBN 83-04-03281-3.
2. Anna Mazerant: A Small Herbal Book . Warsaw: Inst. ed. Trade Unions, 1990. ISBN 83-202-0810-6.
3. Francois Couplan, Aymerich Lazarin "Medicinal plants" IBSN 978-83-7971-077-5 2013