Burdock root is native to Europe and Asia. It has been a main ingredient in a number of herbal preparations. It is sweet in taste and has a sticky texture. Traditionally, it has been used to treat fevers, cold, urinary tract infections, and rheumatism.
However, it lacks clinical evidence. Burdock root tea has been used as a diuretic and also in the treatment of cancer. Both, the leaves as well the root of this plant are used to make tea.
- It helps in treating indigestion and other stomach problems.
- It is also known to strengthen and tone the stomach.
- It can also be used to treat urinary tract infections, bladder pain, gout, as well as fluid retention.
- Glandular conditions, like swollen glands, etc., can also be treated.
- It is used for treating a number of inflammatory conditions, rheumatic conditions, liver conditions, along with hepatitis, jaundice, and liver problems.
- The plant helps in stimulating secretion of bile.
- It is used to cure teenage acne.
- The root and the leaves can also be combined with dandelion root to make tea, which is an extremely effective liver cleanser and stimulator.
- This plant also helps in treating respiratory tract conditions, along with asthma, skin conditions, like boils, eczema, scurvy, etc., fever as well as cancer.
- It is also known to neutralize and eliminate poisons from the system and also sciatica.
- Its amalgamation with sarsaparilla is known to treat a number of skin ailments.
- It has a laxative effect on the bowels and it can also stimulate the uterus, hence, it is recommended, that it should not be consumed during pregnancy.
- Handling it can also allergic reaction in some people. If you are allergic to pectic, then it is recommended you stay away from this plant to avoid any allergic reaction.
- If you are currently taking any medicines, then do not consume this extract, as it may affect the efficacy of the medication you are on.
- Diabetic or hypoglycemic patients should not consume this, as it may cause surge in blood sugar levels.
- It can also cause alterations in sodium and potassium levels.
- Its consumption can lower the heart rate and cause dry mouth. At the same time, it may also interfere with the absorption of iron.
- You can make tea either using fresh or dried burdock root. If you are going to use a fresh ingredient, then, scrub the root vigorously under cold running water so that dirt is removed from it. Make sure you do not peel it.
- In case you are going to use the dried version, then you give this step a miss.
- Slice the plant, but in case you are using the dried type, it will be in pieces. However, you will have to ensure that the pieces are not larger than 1 inch in length
- In a sauce pan, take about 2 to 3 cups of water and submerge one entire piece or ¼ cup of dried ingredient in water.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 30 minutes. Do cover the sauce pan.
- Strain the tea and add your favorite sweetener.
Per serving of size 125 grams has 110 calories. It contains no saturated or trans fat. At the same time, there is no cholesterol present in it. There is about 12% sodium, 9% total carbohydrate, and 9% dietary fiber in it. Before you start its consumption, it is recommended you consult your physician.
Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.