Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Organic Fresh Burdock

Also known as: Burdock root, Gobo root, Arctium lappa

Overview

Burdock root, scientifically known as *Arctium lappa*, is the taproot of a biennial plant native to Europe and Asia. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and as a food ingredient. Rich in carbohydrates (especially inulin), proteins, amino acids, vitamins (like vitamin C), phenolic compounds (notably caffeoylquinic acids), and flavonoids, it is valued for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood sugar regulating properties. It is also explored for skin health benefits and possible hormone modulation. While many in vitro and animal studies support its traditional uses, human clinical trials are less numerous, often with small sample sizes, indicating a moderate but evolving research maturity.

Benefits

Burdock root offers several potential benefits, primarily driven by its rich phytochemical profile. Its significant antioxidant capacity, particularly from caffeoylquinic acids, has been demonstrated in vitro, with peel powders showing superior activity. This suggests a role in combating oxidative stress. For blood sugar regulation, extracts rich in caffeoylquinic acids have shown promising antihyperglycemic effects in animal models and in vitro, though human data remains limited. A 16-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) indicated that burdock root extract could increase sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and modulate sex hormone levels in women, suggesting potential endocrine effects. Traditional use and a small uncontrolled human study also point to benefits for skin health, such as reducing acne and improving skin quality, likely due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Preclinical studies have also explored its anti-cancer potential, showing inhibitory effects on certain cancer cell lines and tumor growth in animals, but robust human trials are lacking.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of burdock root are attributed to its diverse array of bioactive compounds. Caffeoylquinic acids, prominent phenolic compounds, act as potent antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and mitigating oxidative stress. Inulin, a significant prebiotic fiber, contributes to improved gut microbiota composition, which can indirectly influence glucose metabolism and overall health. The observed modulation of sex hormones and SHBG may involve effects on liver metabolism or direct interactions with endocrine pathways. Furthermore, burdock root's anti-inflammatory properties likely stem from its ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines, while its antibacterial effects contribute to its traditional use in skin conditions by reducing bacterial growth.

Side effects

Burdock root is generally considered safe when consumed as food or tea, with organic fresh burdock root posing a low risk. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas, primarily due to its inulin content. Rare allergic reactions can occur, particularly in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as daisies or ragweed. Caution is advised when combining burdock root with diuretics or blood sugar-lowering medications, as it may potentiate their effects, leading to potential interactions. Individuals with diabetes should monitor blood glucose levels closely. Due to insufficient safety data, its use in children and pregnant or breastfeeding women is not recommended without prior medical consultation. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are on medication.

Dosage

Standardized dosing for burdock root is not yet firmly established due to varying extract concentrations and limited human trials. Clinical studies investigating burdock root extract have typically used doses ranging from approximately 300 mg to 1000 mg daily. For specific benefits like antioxidant support and metabolic effects, extracts standardized for caffeoylquinic acids are often preferred. When consumed as organic fresh root powder or tea, the exact therapeutic dose is less clear, as the concentration of active compounds can vary significantly. To minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort from its fiber content, it may be beneficial to consume burdock root with meals. Upper limits for safety have not been definitively set, but adherence to recommended dosages and monitoring for adverse effects is prudent.

FAQs

Is burdock root effective for blood sugar control?

Animal and in vitro studies suggest potential antihyperglycemic effects, but human evidence is currently limited and inconclusive. More research is needed to confirm this benefit in humans.

Can burdock root be used for skin conditions?

Traditional use and small uncontrolled studies suggest it may help with conditions like acne, likely due to anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. However, larger controlled trials are needed.

Is burdock root safe for long-term use?

Generally, it is considered safe for long-term use, but it's important to watch for allergic reactions and potential interactions with medications, especially diuretics and blood sugar-lowering drugs.

Does burdock root have hormonal effects?

A 16-week randomized controlled trial in women indicated that burdock root extract could modulate sex hormone levels and increase sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8469698/ – This study analyzed burdock root powders, finding them rich in phenolics and antioxidants, with peel powder exhibiting superior antioxidant activity. It highlights the potential of burdock root as a source of natural antioxidants, though it is an in vitro study without clinical data.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7933410/ – This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of burdock root extract in women over 16 weeks. It found that the extract significantly increased sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and modulated sex hormone levels, suggesting potential endocrine effects in a female population.
https://www.healthline.com/health/burdock-root – This article provides a general overview of burdock root, discussing its traditional uses, potential benefits for skin health and other conditions, and mechanisms of action. It also touches upon the current state of research, noting the need for more human trials.
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-burdock-root – This source offers information on the health benefits of burdock root, its safety profile, and potential side effects. It emphasizes that while generally safe, caution is needed regarding allergies and interactions with certain medications, particularly for pregnant women and children.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jf500926v – This preclinical study identified caffeoylquinic acids-rich extracts from burdock root with antihyperglycemic activity in vitro and in animal models. It provides strong chemical characterization and preclinical evidence for its blood sugar-lowering potential, though human trials are still needed.