Burdock, known scientifically as Arctium lappa, belongs to the Asteraceae family and in the Actium genus. Burdock is a plant that flourishes biennially and is believed to originate from Northern Europe and Siberia.
From its roots, leaves, and at times, to the seeds, one can reap loads of health benefits, such as:
1. Stimulates the Growth of Bifidobacteria
The roots of the burdock have insulin, a healthy fiber that has a lot of positive health benefits. Among its benefits is associated with the insulin fibers’ ability to encourage bifidobacterial growth in the large intestine. These bacteria are microbes that are naturally present in the intestines. Bifidobacteria has been proven to eliminate damaging bacteria in the intestines, stimulate good bowel movement and boost the immune system. Several studies have shown that bifidobacteria can also decrease the levels of particular colonic enzymes that change pro-carcinogenic molecules to carcinogens (cancer-causing molecules).
2. Loaded with Potassium
Edible burdock roots are renowned for its high potassium content, which has nearly the same amount of potassium as with bananas. Potassium is vital, and yet it’s a mineral that’s often overlooked. Potassium is important for the entire body to function properly, and it has a predominantly important role in muscle contraction and heart functioning. Certain studies revealed that a diet rich in potassium may improve bone health and prevent osteoporosis, specifically in elderly women.
3. Loaded with Vitamin B6
Burdock root contains Vitamin B6, about 100 grams of burdock root can provide more than a tenth of the daily recommended value of Vitamin B6. Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is vital for maintaining normal brain functioning and a healthy nervous system. It helps the body by producing hormones that will regulate your internal clock and your mood. According to several experts, foods high in vitamin B6 like burdock root can help in controlling symptoms of PMS among women.
In addition, vitamin B6 has shown to lower homocysteine levels in the blood. Homocysteine is an amino acid that eliminates cells that attached to the arteries. Subsequently, individuals that have high chances of developing cardiovascular disease might benefit from consuming burdock root as part of their diet. And, vitamin B6 found in the roots of the burdock can also provide helpful benefits for people experiencing rheumatoid arthritis. Low Vitamin B6 levels have been linked with this incapacitating illness described by chronic inflammation.
4. Detoxifies the Liver
The chemicals that provide the bitter taste in burdock encourage production of bile and digestive juices in the intestine, which aids the liver to process toxins and eliminate them from the body quickly. Cleaning the toxins from the blood is among the main job of the liver, and the organic compounds found in burdock have been associated with boosting this function.
5. Strengthens Immune Health
The substantial Vitamin C and E levels in the body act as antioxidants in our body to eradicate free radicals, meaning that burdock is considered a major booster for our immune system. These antioxidants are associated with infection prevention, decreasing the risk of getting cancer, and in general, support proper growth, development and healing of the cells and tissues of the body.
6. Supplies Ample Amount of Insulin
Though all kinds of fiber are capable of regulating the balance of insulin and glucose in our body, insulin is specifically effective and is directly associated with decreasing the development and severity of diabetes and its symptoms. The substantial amount of insulin in burdock can help reduce overall blood cholesterol levels by removing it from the body, thus protecting your cardiovascular system.
7. Stabilizes Hormone Levels
Hormonal imbalance is a health risk. To avoid it, consume herbs and foods that can help control hormonal activity in the body. Burdock can help the liver in metabolizing specific hormones such as estrogen, which can aid in rebalancing the hormone levels in the body. Excess estrogen in the body can lead to a lot of harmful or lethal hormonal disorders, so supplementing burdock root into your weekly diet is a great idea.
8. Improves Skin Health
Among the many side effects of poor dietary lifestyle, constipation and high toxicity in the blood is a dull, discolored skin with acne, pimples, rashes, and spots. A lot of herbalists suggest burdock root supplements for treating these skin conditions, since this potent herb can help in treating constipation and toxicity in a quick and effective way, resulting in a clearer and healthier skin.
