Eat More Herbs - Burdock

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Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)

Part Used: Roots and rhizome

Actions: Alterative, bitter, diuretic

Indications: Burdock is a valuable remedy for skin conditions that cause dryness and scaling. It may be effective for psoriasis when used for a long time. As part of a broader treatment plan, it can be used for rheumatic symptoms, especially those associated with psoriasis. Part of the action of burdock occurs through the bitter stimulation of the digestive juices, particularly the stimulation of bile secretion. Thus, it aids digestion and appetite. Burdock has been used in anorexia nervosa and similar conditions. It helps with kidney function and healing of cystitis. In general, this herb moves the body to a state of integration and health.

Externally, it may be used as a compress or poultice to speed wound and ulcer healing. Eczema and psoriasis may also be treated externally. Remember, however, that chronic skin problems can only be healed from within by using internal remedies.

Preparations and Dosage: To make a decoction, put 1 teaspoon root into 1 cup water. Bring to boil, then simmer 10-15 minutes. Drink 3 times per day.

As a tincture, take 2-4 ml 3 times per day.

TINCTURES

Extracts of herbs in alcohol or glycerin are called tinctures. Tinctures are much stronger, volume for volume, than infusions or decoctions, so the dosage is usually much smaller. Tinctures also have a longer shelf life, extract all of the soluble material from the plant, and tend to be less expensive than other preparations. Tinctures have the benefit of concentration, making them more convenient to take.

Tinctures are used in a variety of ways. You can take one straight or mix it with a cup of cool or hot water. When added to hot water, the alcohol in the tincture will largely evaporate, leaving most of the extract in the water. You can also add a few drops of tincture to a bath or footbath, use it in a compress, mix it with oil and fat to make an ointment, or use it to make suppositories and lozenges.

Wine-Based Tinctures

Another way to make a kind of alcohol tincture is to infuse herbs in wine. Even though these wine-based preparations do not have the shelf life of other tinctures and are not as concentrated, they can be both pleasant to take and effective.

Excerpted from Healthy Bones & Joints by David Hoffman
Copyright © 2000
Used with permission from Storey Publishing, LLC www.storey.com

Healthy Bones & Joints by David Hoffman

A Natural Approach to Treating Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Tendinitis, Myalgia & Bursitis

Strengthen Your Bones and Joints Naturally!

If you're one of the million who suffer from arthritis, rheumatism, osteoporosis, and other diseases of the bones, connective tissue, muscles, and joints, you know how important a healthy musculoskeletal system is to your well- being. In this easy-reference guide, noted herbal clinician David Hoffmann shows you how to use easy herbal remedies and simple lifestyle changes to prevent and fight bone and joint diseases.

Healthy Bones and Joints provides:

* Clear explanations of how herbs such as meadowsweet, mustard, and bay tree can be used in daily regimens to help prevent bone and joint diseases.

* A thorough overview of common musculoskeletal conditions, from arthritis to osteoporosis-with discussion of a wide variety of preventive strategies and healing herbal formulas for each ailment.

* An A-to-Z directory of the herbs that are most helpful for the musculoskeletal system-along with preparation instructions and dosage guidelines.

Discover how nature's own medicine chest can help you enjoy a healthier life, increased vitality, and stronger bones and joints!

From a clinician with 22 years experience and a fellow of Britain's National Institute of Medical Herbalists, come four new guides to total herbal health. Each volume is a thorough exploration and study of the uses of herbs as preventatives and treatment. The series includes Healthy Heart, Healthy Bones & Joints, Easy Breathing, and Healthy Digestion.

Photos from the Wikimedia Commons.