A native of Eurasia, especially England and Scotland, and an invasive weed in the United States, Burdock (Arctium lappa) grows in moist waste places, ditches, and roadsides.
It is a member of the thistle family. Purplish flowers appear in July of the second year followed by round spiky seed pods that cling to fur and clothing. Very large waxy leaves, reminiscent of rhubarb. The lowermost leaves are heart-shaped, sometimes over a foot long and downy on the underneath, giving them a silvery appearance.
Biannual, the basal rosette of leaves stays close to the ground the first year, and the second year sends up a central flower stalk. It can grow 3-7 feet high the second year.
Other Names Great Burdock, lappa, Fox’s Clote, Thorny Burr, Beggar’s Buttons, Cockle Buttons, Love Leaves, Philanthropium, Personata, Happy Major, Clot-Bur, Bardona, Gobo
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Burdock, a plant with a rich history in folklore, has been revered for centuries as a symbol of protection against negative energies.
This versatile herb can be easily propagated from seeds, making it accessible for home gardeners to cultivate and harness its magical properties.
When harvesting burdock, timing is crucial; roots should be collected in their first-year growth for optimal flavor and medicinal benefits.
Known for its magical attributes, burdock is often employed in spells for purification and warding off evil spirits, aligning with its historical significance.
Contents
History and Folklore
The name Arctium is derived from the Greek arctos, “bear” Lappa is from the Greek “to seize”, and llap is from the Celtic for “Hand”. The word Dock in its common name refers to its large leaves and Burr is from the Latin Burra which means “Wool” alluding to the fruit’s tendency to get caught in fur or wool of passing animals.
| Folklore/Symbolism | Description | Cultural/Historical Context |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Believed to ward off negative energies and entities | Used in various cultures to protect against harm and evil |
| Purification | Symbolizes cleansing and removing negativity | Utilized in rituals and spells for energetic purification |
| Tenacity | Represents resilience and strength | Appreciated for its ability to thrive in harsh conditions |
| Healing | Associated with physical and spiritual healing | Used medicinally and spiritually for healing purposes |
It is said that George de Mestral, the Swiss inventor of Velcro, got the idea after examining the fruit of a burdock plant that had stuck to his dog’s fur.
Propagation
Burdock grows wild everywhere and is generally considered a weed, so wild collection in public places is not usually a problem. (Never collect any plant from private property, state or national parks or wildlife preserves without permission.)
Not fussy about soil, but does best in light, well-drained soil. Sow seeds one inch deep directly in the soil in autumn or early spring 18 inches apart.
Harvesting & Storage
Gather the roots from two-year-old plants in early spring and from one-year-old plants in mid-autumn. It is best to gather your roots in the autumn of the first year. Leaves can be gathered and used as needed but are at their peak in early summer.
The flower appears in mid to late summer and the fruits ripen in early autumn. Collect them when they are dry in appearance (and stick to your clothing) and shake out the seeds. You can spread the seeds on paper to dry.
The roots must be sliced thin to dry properly and may become moldy. Lay roots and leaves flat to dry.
Magical Attributes
Burdock is associated with feminine energies, Venus and the element of Water.
Burdock is used in rituals, amulets and spells to ward off negativity and for general protection. It can be used in potions, ritual baths, incense, and amulets. Also used for general healing.
| Magickal Property | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Creates a protective barrier and wards off negativity | Carried in a sachet or placed near doorways for protection |
| Grounding | Enhances grounding and stability | Used in grounding rituals and meditation practices |
| Spirit Communication | Facilitates communication with spirits and guides | Burned as an incense during divination or spirit work |
| Purification | Cleanses energy and removes spiritual impurities | Used in smudging rituals or as an ingredient in ritual baths |
| Healing | Amplifies healing energy and promotes well-being | Combined with other herbs or crystals in healing rituals |
The root can be carved into a figure, dried and carried or worn as a protective amulet.
Household Use
Burning this plant when green produces a large amount of carbonate of potash.
Bored children on a picnic may find burdock fruits to be fun to play with. They stick together just like Velcro and can be used like building blocks to make things.
Healing Attributes
Burdock is considered one of Nature’s best blood purifiers.
Dried roots dug up in the first year are the best source, but fruits and leaves can also be used.
| Healing Property | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Detoxification | Supports liver function and helps eliminate toxins | Used in herbal detoxification protocols |
| Skin Conditions | Soothes skin irritations, acne, and eczema | Applied topically as a poultice or in skincare products |
| Digestive Aid | Promotes healthy digestion and relieves bloating | Consumed as a tea or tincture for digestive support |
| Anti-inflammatory | Reduces inflammation in the body | Used to alleviate joint pain, arthritis, and inflammation |
| Blood Purifier | Cleanses the blood and supports overall blood health | Taken internally to improve blood circulation and purity |
Take a decoction of 1-ounce herb to 1 ½ pint of water, boiled down to a pint, one teacupful per day as a blood purifier and for scurvy, boils and rheumatic afflictions.
Use the same decoction externally as a wash for ulcers and scaly skin disorders. A poultice of the leaves can also be applied to bruises and swellings.
An infusion of the leaves is good for indigestion, especially in people who suffer often.
A tincture, essential oil or extract of the seeds can be used externally as a skin smoother and for problems such as eczema, psoriasis, canker sores, and hemorrhoids. Internally for kidney complaints or a general tonic. Large amounts induce sweating, which many herbalists believe to help rid the body of toxins.
Burdock can be added to shampoos or hair rinses for dandruff and itchy scalp.
In China, where it is called niupangzi, Burdock is used to treating impotence and infertility.
Some people experience dermatitis from topical exposure to burdock. Check for allergies by placing a bit of Burdock extract in a small area and wait 24 hours before using it to treat larger areas.
Culinary Use
Cut immature flower stalks before flowers open. Scrub and peel them. Boil for a vegetable similar in flavor to asparagus or artichoke hearts. You can also use them raw in salads, but they are a bit bitter if not boiled first. These stalks may also be candied like angelica stems.
The roots may be eaten like any root vegetable. This is called gobo in Japan. It is crispy and sweet and mild. Scrub the root and slice it thin. Simmer it for twenty minutes, until tender in butter or water.
A soft drink is available in the United Kingdom known as “Dandelion and Burdock Beer”. Whether or not commercial varieties contain either herb is questionable (Like “Ginger Ale” in America) but health food stores may carry authentic varieties.
External Links
- Burdock Stalks: the Best Vegetable You’re Not Eating at Hunger and Thirst Food, like life, is best when it’s wild and free
- Great Burdock an account at the ADF website
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