Burdock 1


burdock

Burdock (Arctium lappa)

Found along woodland rides, hedgerows, verges and waste ground, burdock has useful herbal properties.   I wrote this post a few years back that highlights the differences between dock, burdock, primrose and foxglove, so take a look to make sure that you identify the right plant.

Property : Bitter

Constituent : Phenolic acids, Tannin, Mucilage, Iron, Sulphur, B vitamins

Action : Blood tonic, Antimicrobial, Antifungal, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Laxative, Depurative

Indication : Rheumatism, Arthritis, Boils, Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema

Made into a poultice, burdock is a good treatment for bruises and boils.  Making a poultice is straightforward, use steam to soften the whole leaf and then apply it to the affected area as hot as you can tolerate.  Leave it in place until it cools down.

The leaves are also a good treatment for minor burns, again as a poultice.  This time crush the leaves first and then apply.  Leave the poultice in place until the pain subsides.

If you’re interested in wild plants, take a look at our Herbal Remedies course. You can see photos from previous courses on our Facebook page.


About Gary

Lead Instructor at Jack Raven Bushcraft, teaching bushcraft, wilderness and survival skills to groups and individuals.

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