Burdock Root has been used for centuries in holistic medicine. We’ll tell you what burdock root is and its benefits for your body and hair.
Burdock root, also known as Arctium lappa, comes from a genus of weeds part of the daisy family. The plant is native to Asia and Europe, although it is now widely grown across the U.S. Burdock root is a sustainable plant, as it self-seeds and can grow quickly in many environments. Traditional Chinese medicine uses all parts of the plant, including the fruit, roots, seeds, flowers and leaves, to treat health conditions ranging from diabetes and infections to acne and eczema. Many people use burdock root on their hair to prevent thinning and bald spots, relieve scalp irritation and encourage hair growth.
Fresh burdock root can often be found at local health food stores. You can eat it raw or cooked, although you should peel off the outer layer first. You can also buy burdock root in the form of dried powder or supplements.
The Body and Hair Benefits of Burdock
Burdock root contains many vitamins and minerals that promote healthy skin and hair. Raw burdock root contains vitamin B6, manganese, potassium, folate, vitamin C, phosphorous, calcium and iron. The plants also contain high levels of antioxidants, including quercetin. Burdock root can have numerous health benefits for the body and hair, because it:
- Fights infections. Burdock root has anti-inflammatory and microbe-fighting properties. This can help fight skin conditions like acne.
- Helps with hair thinning. Burdock root helps with hair thinning as it contains all the necessary amino acids for building protein that creates hair.
- Strengthens hair. Burdock root oil contains vitamin A, which can help nourish the scalp and strengthen hair.
- Reduces scalp irritation. Burdock root can reduce scalp irritation issues like dandruff and itchy scalp.
Are There Any Downsides to Burdock?
When you purchase burdock root, make sure that you are buying it from a trusted source — it is sometimes confused with the root of belladonna, which can be poisonous. Some people should avoid using burdock root including pregnant women, people with diabetes, as well as people who take blood thinners.
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