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Burdock

Burdock (Arctium lappa) is a commercially available edible root from the plant family Compositae. The root of burdock from which the aforesaid high-molecular-weight substance is to be extracted in pure form may be harvested within three years after sowing which is done either in spring or fall. Preferably, it is the root of burdock sown in spring and harvested in winter the same year, or that sown in fall and harvested in spring the next year. The harvested roots may be used raw or after drying. Certain herbs have also been found helpful in protecting the skin from the sun's harmful effects. Herb extracts such as burdock root, echinacea, yellow dock root and grape seeds posses detoxifying properties that have been individually applied to help the body eliminate harmful free radicals. Burdock root contains the active ingredient inulin, and is useful in treating cancerous skin conditions, as well as inflammation. Burdock root stimulates the immune system, which is good for the blood type A's immune system. The herb purifies the blood, and restores liver and gallbladder functions. Burdock is useful as part of a wider treatment for rheumatic complaints, especially when they are associated with psoriasis. Burdock seeds are crushed to make a popular tincture used to purify the blood, to treat gout and ulcers, arthritis and rheumatism.

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