Burdock root, though very useful in treating many body ailments, can produce various harmful effects as well. Read on to know about these side effects, before starting a course of the same.
Burdock: An Inspiration!
Georges de Mestral, a Swiss inventor, was inspired by the seeds of burdock sticking to his socks, jacket, and his dog’s fur, while walking in the woods, and invented VELCRO, a two-sided fastener that soon replaced the Zipper.
Burdock root, originally grown in Europe and northern Asia, is now grown in many parts of North America as well. Traditionally, burdock root was used in a number of herbal remedies to treat various illnesses. Burdock supplements can be purchased in the form of dried root powder, tincture, pills and fluid extracts. Till date burdock root is used in alternative medicine however, its use has to be monitored carefully due to the various side effects it has.
After studying the side effects of burdock root, it’s time now to look at some of its benefits as well because, although there are certain risks involved in its use, it is a form of medicine that has been used for several years.
- Burdock root seeds are rich in vitamin A, B and C as well as the essential fatty acids. So, intake of burdock root seeds helps the body in fulfilling the requirements of these nutrients. Hence, in many places, it is eaten as a vegetable.
- Burdock root helps in purifying the blood, by getting rid of the toxins in it. It also improves blood circulation to the brain and other vital organs of the body.
- If taken orally, burdock root can help in treating many skin disorders such as acne, pimples, eczema, ulcers, etc.
- Burdock root helps in soothing the joints as well and hence is really useful in the treatment of arthritis.
- According to Chinese traditions, burdock root is an aphrodisiac and hence, its consumption can treat problems such as impotency and infertility.
Disclaimer: This HolisticZine article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical expert.