posted March 18, 2008 10:06 AM         

Burdock is a common weed widespread throughout the United States, Europe and Northern Asia.

A member of the thistle family, burdock is a stout plant with hooked bracts (leaf-like part of the plant) or burrs that stick to clothing and animal fur.

The plant grows to a height of about three to four feet. It has purple flowers that bloom between June and October. The leaves are collected during the first year of growth, and the roots are dug up in the fall of the first year after planting, or during the following spring before the flowers bloom.

Burdock has long played an important role in Native American herbal medicine, and American herbalists have used the roots and seeds of this plant for centuries as well.

The most common traditional uses of this herb are as a "blood purifier" used to clear the bloodstream of toxins, as a diuretic to promote the excretion of urine, and as a topical remedy to relieve skin problems.

In folk medicine, burdock has also been used as a laxative and to relieve inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Plus, there is belief that burdock may be helpful for kidney stones.

Many herbalists find burdock helpful for skin and scalp conditions such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, and contact dermatitis. It is also useful for inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

Preparations of burdock root are also used to promote perspiration and the excretion of urine and to treat ailments and complaints of the digestive system.

A blood purifier which cleanses the body of bile, helping to detoxify the liver, kidneys and gallbladder. Useful for arthritis, boils,cancer,dandruff,diabetes, eczema, and liver disease. It is also mild diuretic and assists the evacuation of toxins through the urinary tract as well.

Burdock has been used traditionally for ridding the organs of stones and for cleansing the blood.

The root is used in tinctures, capsules and infusions and works well accompanied by DANDELION. http://www.herbalremediesinfo.com/Burdock.html

Arctium lappa

Compositae

Names: Lappa, Beggar's Buttons.

Habitat: Grows in hedges and ditches in Europe, parts of Asia, N.America; cultivated in Japan.

Collection: The roots and rhizome should be unearthed in September or October.

Part Used: Roots and rhizome.

Constituents:

Lignans, including arctigenin, its glycoside arctiin, and matairesinol. Polyacetylenes, in the root, mainly tridecadienetetraynes and tridecatrienetriynes, with the sulphur-containing arctic acid. Amino acids, such as [[alpha]]-guanidino-n-butyric acid Inulin in the roots Miscellaneous organic acids, fatty acids and phenolic acids; includingacetic, butyric, isovaleric, lauric, myristic, caffeic and chlorogenicacids.

Actions: Alterative, diuretic, bitter.

Indications: Burdock is a most valuable remedy for the treatment of skin conditions which result in dry and scaly skin. It may be most effective for psoriasis if used over a long period of time. It will be useful as part of a wider treatment for rheumatic complaints, especially where they are associated with psoriasis. Part of the action of this herb is through the bitter stimulation of the digestive juices and especially of bile secretion. Thus it will aid digestion and appetite. It has been used in anorexia nervosa and similar conditions, also to aid kidney function and to heal cystitis. In general, Burdock will move the body to a state of integration and health, removing such indicators of systemic imbalance as skin problems and dandruff. Externally, it may be used as a compress or poultice to speed up the healing of wounds and ulcers.Eczema and psoriasis may also be treated this way externally, but it must be remembered that such skin problems can only be healed from within and with the aid of internal remedies.

Priest & Priest tell us that it is a "general alterative: influences skin, kidneys, mucous and serous membranes, to remove accumulated waste products. It is specific for eruptions on the head, face and neck, and for acute irritable and inflammatory conditions". They give the following specific indications: Eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis.Boils, carbuncles, styes, sores. Rheumatism, gout and sciatica. Ellingwood recommends it for the following patholgies: aphthous ulcerations; irritable coughs; psoriasis and chronic cutaneous eruptions; chronic glandular enlargements, syphilitic, scrofulous and gouty conditions.

Combinations: For skin problems, combine with Yellow Dock, Red Clover or Cleavers.

Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put l teaspoonful of the root into a cup of water, bring to boil and simmer for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
http://www.herbalremediesinfo.com/BURDOCK-ROOT.html

Burdock is a root that is found in Europe in Asia. It has many medicinal qualities and has been used in many herbal remedies. The root is sweet to the taste and has a gummy consistency. Traditionally, burdock has been used as a remedy for measles, arthritis, tonsillitis, viruses like colds, throat pain, and as a diuretic. In modern times, burdock is also used in oncology and to treat many other serious health problems.

Historical Uses of Burdock Root

Burdock root has often been used to purify the blood by removing toxins that can build up in blood. It can be taken orally or used topically as a remedy for skin disorders. Also, burdock root can be a diuretic or soothe aching joints. Traditional Chinese healers used burdock root in combination with other plants to make cures for colds, measles, throat pain, and tonsillitis. Burdock root was also popular in Japan as a source of vitamins and other nutrients. In modern times, burdock root has been employed in the treatment of certain cancers. However, this use of burdock root still needs to be systematically tested.

Historically, the seeds of the burdock plants were compressed to make a mixture that was effective in cleansing the bloodstream, easing pain from arthritis, and treating gout, rheumatism, ulcers, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its cancer-curing properties were also utilized in Russia and India. The Chinese used it as an aphrodisiac, and found it effective in treating barrenness and impotence.

Burdock’s active ingredients are arcigen, calcium, chlorogenic acid, essential oil, flavonoids, iron, inulin, lactone, mucilage, polyacetylenes, potassium, resin, tannin, and taraxosterol. The seeds of the plant contain beneficial fatty acids. The oil from the seeds can be used as a diaphoretic, which leads to increased perspiration, which is essential in cleansing the body of toxins or harmful elements. According to traditional healers, diaphoretics are integral to treating influenza, gallbladder or liver disorders, and to aid the kidneys which purify the blood.

Burdock root is eaten as a vegetable in many places. It has many nutrients like iron, inulin (a carbohydrate), and beneficial oils. Also, burdock can be used as a gentle laxative and help eradicate uric acid. Some of the active ingredients of burdock are polyacetylenes, which are known to be effective antibacterials and antifungals. Burdock enhances the performance of many of the organs which purify the body and eliminate toxins or waste (like the kidneys, liver, colon, etc). This enhances overall health and helps correct disorders.

posted March 18, 2008 01:52 PM         

More pics of the plant:
http://www.missouriplants.com/Pinkalt/Arctium_minus_page.html

From Jim McDonald:

quote:

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Burdock
Arctium lappa, A. minus

Burdock is a very common biennial plant found throughout Michigan. It grows along roadsides, in fields, at the edges of woods, and anywhere the Earth has been disturbed. In its first year, it forms a cluster of large leaves, resembling rhubarb. These grow from a carrot like root that may penetrate over two feet into the ground. It is this root that is most often used as an herbal medicine. After a year of growth, the plant puts forth a branched stalk with smaller leaves and, in the late summer, purple-pink flowers. In autumn, these flowers are replaced by round brown burrs that persist into the winter. The seeds contained in these burrs are also used medicinally. Their use is similar, though the seeds are used for acute disorders (their action is quicker to manifest, but less permanent) while the root is preferred for chronic conditions (it's slower to manifest, but yields more permanent results).

A telling of Burdock's virtues would be long winded indeed, as it has merit in the address of almost any ailment or imbalance. At the same time, it is difficult to describe the medicinal use of the plant concretely, as it is a true tonic, reliable but subtle in effect. I use it frequently in creating herbal blends for people, in various combinations with other plants. What Burdock brings to any formula is nourishment and balance. High in vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, it both provides nourishment and assists the body in its absorption. It is a restorative tonic par excellence, and helps to improve the functioning of the entire being when taken regularly for a prolonged period. Infrequent or sporadic use is unlikely to yield optimum results. Burdock is a nourishing herbal food; consider it a part of your diet, not a supplement.

Perhaps the archetypal blood purifier, Burdock makes an excellent metabolic tonic, improving the functioning of the liver and kidneys, digestion, lymphatic and endocrine systems. Matthew Wood describes the "metabolic scenario" calling for the use of such a remedy: "the liver, the seat of metabolism, is not burning cleanly enough to remove all catabolic waste products, while the kidneys and skin are overburdened or are themselves incapable of removing these waste products. The lymphatics, which assist all these organs, also enter the picture. They may be pictured as getting slowly congested as, perhaps, a sort of haze of incomplete metabolites float around in the tissues." One can imagine that, in such a state, a person would suffer from a diminished sense of well being - nothing that they could put their finger on, or that could be diagnosed and treated by their family doctor, but that nonetheless prevents them from feeling truly healthy and vibrant. In 19th Century American herbalism, such a state might have been referred to as "scrofula" or "bad blood". Burdock addresses this type of condition by nourishing the liver, which results in an improvement in metabolism, stimulating lymphatic functioning, which brings nourishment to and cleanses cells of metabolic byproducts, and by stimulating the excretion of urine through the kidneys, which aids in the elimination of the wastes stirred up by its other actions. Additionally, I believe that alterative herbs such as Burdock help to "coordinate" the metabolism so that everything is working "in synch". The result is a generalized improvement in the body's metabolic functions, which in turn increases the efficiency by which nutrients are absorbed and energy is utilized. This increased efficiency allows us to more fully experience the vibrancy of well being.

It is this tonic action that makes Burdock such an incredible restorative agent. In any case of wasting disease, Burdock's ability to nourish the body will be of benefit. Its use is associated with a plethora of debilitative diseases: In the treatment of cancer it is one of the four herbs used in the "Essiac" formula, it's an ingredient in the Hoxsey/Trifolium formula, and herbalist Donald Yance states that it exhibits marked anti-tumor activity. I have used it in combination with Dandelion leaf and root, Milk Thistle and Schizandra Berries as a restorative and protective tonic for the liver to aid a man with Hepatitis C, and herbalist Stephen Buhner used a formula containing Burdock to treat his own affliction (he outlines his protocol in his "Herbs for Hepatitis C and the Liver" from Storey Books). There is also evidence to show Burdock's potential merit in treating HIV/AIDS. I would likely include Burdock in any formulas I would create for treating severe degenerative conditions.

One should not assume, however, that one's life need be in peril to make use of Burdock. I was talking with my friend Betty Rinaldi, an herbalist in St. Clair Shores, and we both agreed that Burdock tops our list of all around super-good-for-you herbs; herbs that everybody would do well to use (well… alongside Nettle…). I’m often asked what the best way to take Burdock is; as a tea, a tincture, or to eat it. The answer is to ingest it in every way you can think of. Burdock possesses so many virtues that no one way of taking it can encompass them all. Teas are not better than tinctures and soups are not better than stir frys. Again, think of Burdock as a nourishing herbal food; something you work into your diet and consume regularly, prepared in as many differing manners as you can dream up.

Burdock’s medicinal virtues have always been associated with common manifestations of metabolic imbalance. Particular among these is the treatment of skin diseases, ranging from acne and boils to psoriasis and eczema. The underlying theory behind this use is that if the liver, lymph and kidneys are not effectively detoxifying and excreting toxins, then the body will attempt to cleanse itself through its other organ of elimination: the skin. Whether this elimination takes on the form of septic eruptions such as boils and acne or dry inflammations like psoriasis depends on the constitution of the individual and the nature of the imbalance. The prolonged use of Burdock will, in time, improve the metabolism and help to restore the proper channels and functioning of elimination.

Burdock also exerts a normalizing action on the sebaceous glands, which distribute the oils the keep the skin pliable, and so can be used in cases where the skin is too dry, too oily, or too oily here and too dry there. Physiomedicalist William Cook referred to it as a “sebaceous diaphoretic”, saying, “Besides capillary and sudoriferous glands, the skin contains a large number of sebaceous or oil glands. These give to the surface its natural softness and pliancy. They sometimes become quite deficient in action; and then the skin becomes harsh and chaffy, and no amount of watery sudoresis (sweating) can restore its oily elasticity. A very small class of diaphoretics expend their main influence upon these sebaceous glands. The seeds of Arctium lappa are among the best diffusives in this class; and the roots of Arctium and the bark of Celastrus scandens among the permanents”. By referring to “diffusives” and “permanents”, Cook is saying that the seeds are of great benefit in treating acute flare ups of such conditions, but the root should be used regularly to get to the root of the imbalance.

Burdock leaves bruised or blanched and applied externally as a poultice is a traditional application in bringing boils to a head. The drawing action of Plantain, Peach leaves, and/or Honeysuckle flowers would lend itself well to such a poultice, and aid in treating the infection as well. William Cook stated that the expressed juice of Burdock leaves (a tablespoon three times daily) helps to address boils internally, presumably through some lymphatic action. Burdock leaves have also been blended with egg whites (Culpepper) or butter (Sauer) to ease the pain, prevent infection, and promote the healing of burns. I once had the opportunity to test this, and found that the leaves poulticed with egg whites on a burn quickly relieved the pain, and the injury healed quickly and fully, with no scarring.

Burdock seeds possess a slight "diffusive" quality, producing a "tingly" sensation on the tongue when chewed or taken as an extract; this indicates that some of its virtues are quickly taken up via the nervous system and put to immediate action. In this effect, it is similar to Echinacea, though much milder, and I find that Burdock seed can increase the effectiveness of Echinacea in treating colds and flus, particularly if there are swollen glands or tonsils (probably on account of its lymphatic actions). William Cook also says the seeds can ease the nausea caused by Lobelia.

Burdock is also highly regarded for its action on the urinary tract, being of benefit to kidney and bladder infections, inflammations and kidney stones. Through its diuretic action (which is strongest in the fresh leaves), it will add volume to dark, scanty and/or scalding urine, which is an important sign of renal imbalance that should not be ignored, lest the condition worsen and more serious imbalances manifest. Burdock seeds have often been used as a remedy for kidney stones and urinary calculi. Cook states they "are very serviceable in irritation and aching if the bladder, scalding urine, and urine charged with mucous and gray sediments." Colonial herbalist John Sauer, who wrote one of the first herbals in the "New World", stated that "The seed, taken in one-quint (1/8 ounce) doses every two weeks, will prevent stones in the kidneys and bladder." Queen Anne's Lace Seed would be an excellent accompaniment in such a treatment. Sauer recommends horseback "riding or travel by carriage" after administration, in order to agitate the fluid in the kidneys and facilitate the dissolving of the stones. My understanding is that Burdock seed increases the solvency of the fluid in the kidneys, and that jostling the body will further aid in this process. This is an aspect of treating stones I’ve never seen in contemporary herbals. Horses are hard to come by for many of us (carriages are an even greater rarity), but any vigorous physical activity would likely suffice. For the sedentary, a drive down and old dirt road after a thunderstorm might be able to stand in for a carriage.

Also associated with its diuretic virtues is its traditional usage in treating gout, arthritis and rheumatism, which are often caused by a lack of fluids, or perhaps internal "heat" that "cooks down" fluids and causes the precipitation of solid crystals in the joints, which creates friction, and as a result, inflammation. By increasing the volume of urine excreted, Burdock brings these wastes back into solution and expels them from the body, thereby removing the cause of the inflammation. Nettle would be an excellent accompaniment towards this end.

Burdock has been referred to as a "hormone balancer", acting on the endocrine system by nourishing the pituitary and lessening dramatic fluctuations in hormone levels. I advise the use of Burdock when the need for a metabolic tonic is accompanied by wildly fluctuation moods; a condition unfortunately associated with menstruating women but alive and well (if too oft overlooked) in men, especially when overwork is compounded by lack of exercise and emotional release. This application is especially relevant during stressful transitions in life, be they associated with external stress, metabolic changes, or emotional upheaval. These are often conditions that are dealt with through the use of nervines, but the actions of these herbs will be better manifested if accompanied by the regular use of alterative tonics such as Burdock and Milky Oats. This same combination would prove a very nice base on which to build a restorative tonic for sexual problems and infertility arising from overwork and exhaustion.

Matthew Wood states that Burdock helps to stabilize blood sugar by reducing the amount of sugar picked up in the intestines. Stephen Buhner, in his (extremely cool) Sacred and Herbal Healing Beers, states that the inulin contained in the roots "exert a beneficial effect on normalizing blood sugar levels".

Burdock also has been said to be of value in treating prolapsed of the uterus associated with childbirth. Though I have no firsthand experience with this, a tincture or tea of the root being taken in small frequent doses is ideal, according to Michael Moore. He also notes the use of Burdock seed in treating preeclampsia, water retention during pregnancy accompanied by elevated blood pressure and poor kidney function... I used a recipe with Burdock seed as one of the main ingredients to address this, but to no avail; the preeclampsia on out… c'est la vie.

Running throughout the physical actions brought about by the use of Burdock are the themes of normalization and the restoration of balance. Burdock does not force its virtues upon us; it simply aids us in recovering our own when we lose touch with our well being and fall into imbalance. It understands the importance of slow and subtle resolve and the benefits of gentle but consistent action. In the wild, Burdock grows on disturbed and injured soil, drawing nutrients from deep within the ground to replenish and heal the disturbed earth. It performs this same healing for us, drawing our own medicines from deep within our being to restore the conditions necessary for healing to occur. By recognizing such themes, we can better understand the use of an herb, and when it is indicated as a remedy for ourselves or another. I have not seen Burdock's true virtue more clearly or beautifully captured than by Matthew Wood, who wrote:

"On a psychological level, Burdock helps us deal with our worries about the unknown... which lurk in the dark woods beyond our control. It seizes upon deep complex issues, penetrates to the core and brings up old memories and new answers. It gives us faith to move ahead on our path, despite the unknown problems that might snare us on our way. It helps the person who is afraid become more hardy, while it brings the hardy wanderer back to his original path. It restores vigor and momentum."

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From Matthew Wood's website: http://www.woodherbs.com/Burdock.html

III. The Indispensable Oil Remedy.
In addition to water, the body needs oil. Burdock increases the bile secretion to digest oily foods better, increases oil uptake and liver processing of lipids, and distributes lipids to the skin, hair, tissues, adrenals, and steroids and hormonal system.

Arctium lappa. Burdock.

One would expect burdock to have a long history of use in medicine, but a review of traditional literature shows that it was little used until the eighteenth century, when it starts its career as a diuretic and “blood purifier.” Some specific indications are found in the eclectic literature in the nineteenth century, but it was not widely used until the twentieth, when it finally appears in many formulations – still as an alterative or blood purifier. As far as I know, the use of burdock as a specific, and the accumulation of a list of specific indications, have awaited my own hand. Burdock is a member of the asteraceae. It contains lignans, bitter priniciples, inulin (starch), mucilage, sugars, pectin, minerals including sulphur, and organic acids.

Burdock root is bitter, sweet, and oily. It is therefore well suited to dry/atrophic conditions where there is a need to increase secretions, tissue feeding, and tissue cleansing. The bitters stimulate secretion in the digestive tract. The oils increase secretion of bile, promoting better absorption of fats and oils through the small intestine, better activity of the gallbladder, and increased processing of oils by the liver. Burdock root is called for when there is poor secretion of bile, indicated by dry stool and constipation and poor emulsification of fats and oils. With low absorption of lipids there is a shortage of these substances around the body. Burdock is thus associated with dry, scaly skin conditions and dry skin in general. Sometimes the sebaceous glands get blocked, due to a lack of oil moving through them, resulting in inflammation – hence the association of burdock with acne and boils. The sinuses and lungs are also dry and the secretion through the kidneys is limited.

Burdock seed is more diuretic and diffusive. It is particularly used when the skin and kidneys are involved. It is suited to “affection of the kidneys, such as atrophy or wasting away,” writes Richard Hool (1922, 17). This occurs with dry tissues, though there are local areas of water retention – edema. “When the water cannot move, some of it gets stuck,” comments Phyllis Light. “The virtue is diuretic,” proclaims John Hill (1840, 97), “and is very powerfully so. It has cured dropsies alone.” Samuel Henry (1814, 63) calls burdock root “diuretica mundificans.”

Henry also recommended burdock root highly in syphilis, a condition for which it was long used. “For the benefit of our poor gallant, but unfortunate seamen, &c. I shall reveal my celebrated antivenereal remedy, by the use of which I have cured numbers both in its recent and fourth stage, without the use of mercury.” Burdock root, one pound; yellow dock root half a pound; yarrow half a pound; parsley roots and leaves half a pound; comfrey four ounces. Boil in eight quarts of water, down to one gallon. “When it is to be carried to sea in warm weather” add gin. A gill to be taken three times a day.

The liver is also affected. With a lack of fats and oils, there is reduced anabolism of lipids for the body to use, with wasting and dryness. In order to get nutrition there may be dependence on “quick fixes” of sugar. Thus, it is a remedy for sugar imbalances. Since steroid and sex hormones are made from oil and require oil for transmission through the body, and all hormones of any kind require adequate fluids for movement, burdock comes up as something of an endocrine and female remedy.

Burdock has a powerful action on the skin. This is attributed to its influence on the liver and blood. Here is a case history from Derby herbalist George Slack (1919, 107). “The author ounce cured a man who was suffering from boils and abscesses nearly all over his body with burdock and yarrow made into a strong decoction, and drunk freely. He had been ill five months, and was given up to die; but in one month he was restored.” Here is another case history from Lise Wolff, registered herbalist (AHG), of Minneapolis. A three and a half year old girl, diagnosed with ichthyosis. The skin was flaking off all over the body in large patches and was dry, hot, and red. If she got hot the skin became red and peeled off. Fever turned the skin bright red. She would get cranky and irritable when it itched and couldn’t sleep at night. Healthy birth, no medications, no antibiotics. Chamomilla (for the attitude) 2 drops, Arctium radix, 2 drops, Salvia officinalis, 2 drops; 3 times a day. Two months later the skin is slightly flakey, in fine, small flakes, the hands are still inflamed, sleeps fine, less irritable.

Dorothy Hall (1988) recommends burdock for conditions where the skin is broken open and weeping an exudate, but I would still maintain that this is in cases that are intrinsically dry – the weeping is due to water that can’t get out through the skin and kidneys in the healthy fashion.

Burdock, with its brown, fur-like burs, would be classified in American Indian medicine as a ‘bear medicine.’ Indeed, such an application in ancient Eurasia is indicated by the name arctium, from the Greek arctos (bear). The oily bear medicines usually stimulate the gallbladder, liver, thyroid and adrenal cortical functions, encouraging the digestion and metabolism of fats and proteins. The metabolism of the bear, which swings greatly from winter hibernation to summer feeding, is dependent on these organs for storage and utilization of fats and proteins.

David Hoffmann (2004, 528) uses an arresting expression in his discussion of burdock. It will “move the body to a state of integration and health.” Burdock helps to restore the primal blueprint of health, so to speak, when it has been lost in persons suffering from long, chronic illness. It was thus once an important remedy for syphilis, a disease which attacks the basic integrative forces of life, the primal essence, or genetic material, and the hard and supportive structures of the body.

Taste: (root) sweet, bitter, pungent • warm • oily
(seed) bitter, pungent, sweet • warm • diffusive.
Tissue State: atrophy, stagnation

Specific Indications
Constitution, complexion, characteristic symptoms
– Heat, dryness, lack of oil.
– Thin, withered persons with dry skin and scalp.
– Emotionally stoic; phlegmatic about pain.
– Tired, worn-out, worried.
Head
– Dry scalp with red, scaly patches and hair loss.
– Headache, frontal, with dry sinus.

Respiration
– Respiratory conditions with dry mucosa; allergies, sinusitis, bronchitis.

Digestion, Liver, and Gallbladder
– Lack of secretion in the upper gastrointestinal (seed).
– Lack of lubrication in the lower gastrointestinal; constipation (root).
– Poor glandular function; lymphatics, pancreas, endocrine, prostate, liver, spleen.
– Liver and gallbladder congestion; gallstones.
– Blood sugar lability.

Female
– Uterine prolapse; with tired feet.
– Pregnancy: balancing and nutritive during; helps prevent water retention and jaundice in babies.

Male
– Specific for swollen prostate in men who lift weights incorrectly.

Kidneys and Bladder
– Leeches out concretions, kidney stones, arthritis.
– Edema.

Muscular and Skeletal
– Arthritis, bursitis; better from movement; worse when immobilized.
– Lower part of spine stiff.
– Sciatica; unbearable at night.
– Gouty pain.
– Better from movement, exercise, bending, open air; worse from inactivity, closed, warm room.
– Carpal tunnel syndrome.

Fever
– Fever with excessive oily sweating and worry.

Skin
– Profuse underarm sweat.
– Dry or oily skin, acne, eczema, dandruff; boils, abscesses, poison ivy, rashes, itching, measles (leaf externally).
– Retention of water in persons who are generally dry; swelling in the upper thighs and
across the belly and the upper eyelids, with bags under the eyes, absence of perspiration,
the skin is trying to conserve water.
– Pulse thin.
– Boils, abscesses, carbuncles.
– Single large pimples that are not coming to a head at the surface.

Preparation and dosage:
The root is used for chronic conditions, the seed (or fructs, actually) in acute. A biennial, the roots are dug at the end of the first year or the beginning of the second. The seeds are harvested just after the end of the second year, before the plant is completely dead. The leaves are sometimes used externally as a poultice. The roots, high in oils, easily go rancid and need to be dried with artificial heat and left in the open air. They extract well in alcohol. Brandy brings out the nice bittersweet flavor. Dose: 3-60 drops, 1-3x/day. The dried root and seeds may be used by decoction as a tea. One teaspoon of ground root to one cup of boiling water.

Cautions:
Widely used as a food. May cause allergic reactions in a few people allergic to asteraceae plants. Has caused skin outbreaks in some people; perhaps a cleansing effect.

Literature:
Traditional (8, 9, 13, 17, 20, 26, 29), Nicholas Culpeper (13), Jack Ritchason (14), John King, John Hill (16), William Boericke (13, 20), Dorothy Hall (3, 13, 18-22), Cyril Boger (1, 24), Matthew Wood (3, 4, 5, 28, 30), Julia Graves (30), Lise Wolff (6, 7, 13), Phyllis Light (10, 12, 16, 27), Margi Flint (14), Harvey Felter (2).

Selections from The Earthwise Herbal
By Matthew Wood M.Sc. (Herbal Medicine)
Registered Herbalist (AHG)

To be published by North Atlantic Books, in two volumes, 2008-9

"In a busy practice covering over twenty five years and tens of thousands of clients, a person learns what remedies are of invaluable service. I would like to share my selection – herbs I choose and herbs that choose me."

More from Matthew Wood:
http://www.tcwellness.com/author.php?id=Matthew%20Wood

I really like this guy -- he has AttiTUDE with a capital "A"
Hope to be able to get an appt with him this spring, and perhaps even start classes.....

posted March 18, 2008 02:59 PM         

I almost titled this thread addressed to you because I know you deal with psoriasis. I was hoping you were either taking the herb or would read this article!

May I also HIGHLY recommend Aloe Vera juice to you? You may already know about it's benefits or take it. I have tried four different brands and find that I like Aloe Life's product best. The make a detox formula with Essiac Herbs and I think it could help - if not completely HEAL your psoriasis, if taken regularly.

Aloe Life

quote:

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Detox Plus Formula is more effective than other Detox formulas because the Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice carries the herbal extracts deep into the tissues supporting and stimulating the release of waste residue throughout the lymph system and liver. This formula is very effective containing Essiac formula herbs. Detox of the liver has provided help from skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, lymes disease, hepatitis C, Candida, Allergies and general well being. Great to detox the body at least once a year to get out toxins that we receive from many different factors and can be taken daily for overall well being and stamina. Recommended to be taken with Fibermate by Aloe Life to encourage more toxins to leave the body. Directions: 1 OZ 1-3 times per day for daily use. For Detox Plan take 1OZ daily gradually building up to 8OZ for 3 months with Fibermate. Drink at least 6-8OZ of water daily and eating plenty of vegetables. May be helpful to take steam baths during the plan to encourage waste removal. Discount on orders of 4 or more!

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They make a line of Skin Gel that is great too. I think taking it inernally and using it externally would bring you great relief.

I recently finished a bottle of the Detox formula and have begun to find relief from various health conditions. I'm now on a bottle of the Berry Blend (it tastes alot better). It really is amazing to me and I'm so greatful i stumbled across this miracle healing plant. Every body is different, of course, but I would be interested and thrilled to find out that this helped you too.

Skin Care - Aloe vera is used in many skin care products like microdermabrasion creams, Lotions, Lip Balm, Soap and aloe gel for sunburn because of it's beneficial healing and regenenerative properties.

quote:

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(excuse typos) Aloe's effects on skin and wound healing have been recognized for thousands of years. According to James Duke PH.D., studies since the 1930's have shown that Aloe speeds healing of burns, wounds, frostbite, and other skin conditions. It relieves itching, pain, and swelling from all kinds of rashes including heat rash, diaper rash, rash caused by poisonous plants, hives, scabies, ringworm, and athletes foot.

Approved by FDA for use with oral ulcers and cancer sores, a 2005 article in General Dentistry supports the successful use of aloe for the treatment of many oral health problems.

.......
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Beyond this, studies have shown that aloe can provide extremely effective treatment for psoriasis. A 1996 year-long double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 60 people with psoriasis found that applying a .05% aloe vera cream 3 times daily eliminated symptoms in 86% percent of cases.

Aloe's capacity to penetrate to the dermis, bringing nutrients and removing toxins, is behind its speedy and impressive healing ability. Not surprisingly, aloe brings relief to dry skin, and is found in many lotions and moisturizers.

In Eczema and Psoriasis researchers believe the rough, dry scaly patches of skin or small blisters are related to an over active immune system. Through striving to balance the immune function nutritionally through healthier foods, nutritional supplements and a healthier lifestyle (exercise, etc.) you will begin to see improvements. For many they have totally reversed their skin symptoms yet give your body 3-6 months to make significant changes. For some it may take 1-3 years to build healthier skin cells. Do your best each day and remember health is truly our greatest wealth!

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The list of health conditions it heals is endless.

to you.

posted March 18, 2008 08:37 PM         

On the strength of your recommendations, I've just placed my order with Aloe Life ;-))
Thank you hon -- I'm so touched that you thought of my skin issues and spent this time and effort to make me aware of it

To update you on the changes in my life that you stimulated ;-)) -- I got that Healing Psoriasis Naturally book by Dr Pagano the chiro.....
I tried his 3-day apple fast and recommended diet, and my skin improved!! ESPECIALLY in combination with the two teas I got from the Heritage Store (Edgar Cayce-recommended products): the slippery elm bark and American saffron.

Alas, near the end of February I came down with that awful, horrid flu that's been going around and it laid me out -- it was all I could manage to open a can of something, when I remembered that I needed to eat, and so my skin is paying the price of 3 weeks of poor diet now.....

I'm seeing a chiro weekly to do the recommended adjustments of the 4 vertebrae that Dr Pagano says are the important ones. I'm going to do a detox plan with her too, but she stressed that it's VERY important that I get completely well from that flu, and I'm not well yet -- no stamina and very little energy, and my voice still hasn't come back. Catching up on the sleep lost from the fever and coughing is my #1 priority right now!! My chiro gave me something called UltraClear Sustain by an outfit called Metagenics. This is a 25-day detox with a list of "approved" foods. I've been drinking a detox tea from the Heritage Store too ( http://www.caycecures.com/Catalog/catalog/cleansingteas.htm ) -- burdock is an element of it , and Yogi tea makes two really nice daily-detox teas also.

With Saturn making its way thru my 1st house, this is my year for getting healthy

Do you have a good health food store in your environs?? One of my favorite daily drinks is the Kombucha made by GT Dave:
http://www.gtskombucha.com/synergy.html
I'm drinking the Synergy Cosmic Cranberry right now ;-D

posted March 19, 2008 12:11 AM         

I'd be willing to bet that this will help you finally eliminate the residual effects of the flu too. It's supposed to work wonders on the immune system, fight viruses and chronic infections etc. Something I've noticed is that my energy levels are up and my mood has improved. Now that could be contributed to other supplements I am taking too, but i have a feeling it's the Aloe. It has been proven to work really well on balancing blood sugar and hormones.

In my area we have a health/natural foods store chain called A Good Earth. What's really cool for me is since I work in the same business strip one of the stores, I get a 20% discount there. Then again, it's not too cool because I spend too much money there that I really dont have. ;/

I'll have to check and see if they have the Kombucha next time. I remember hearing about Kombucha from my mom a long time ago...

That's cool that you got the book and the fast helped you.

You will start feeling alot better soon. I'm sure of it. Please keep me updated.

I'm a member over at Psyche now, so we will be seeing each other there too.

Wishing you great health.

T

posted March 19, 2008 10:14 AM         

This is the best thing I've found.
Its a staple product of Unani (close relative of Ayurvedic) medicine,
and it is found in practically every medicine cabinet in India.

____________________________________________________________________

Description [Safi Blood Purifier]:
Safi is very effective in treating problems like impurities in the blood, skin eruptions, pimples, boils, heat rashes, itching, nose bleeding, chronic and temporary constipation, measles, a burning sensation while urination and general lassitude.

Safi is also useful as a diuretic and preventive for conditions arising during change of seasons.
DOSAGE :

Adults - 10 ml (2 teaspoonful).
Children - 1/4 or 1/2 the normal dose to give according to age.

Usage:
Normally one dose in the morning is recommended. To be taken with milk, water or fresh juice. But in acute cases, an additional dose may be taken in the evening or at bed time.

For constipation take safi in hot milk or water. Duration of use should be at least one month.
During change of season one dose of Safi should be taken at bed time with water. Especially prescribed for prevention of measles, heat rash and skin eruptions in children.

To reduce excess weight
Safi induces weight loss through diuresis. One dose in the morning and one at bed time to to be taken with water. Record your weight at the start of Safi treatment and also the weekly loss of weight for a month. If the weight drops to normal in one month, reduces the dosage to one dose to be taken at night. In case of constipation, increase the dose to twice a day with hot water.

Hamdard Products - Safi Blood Purifier

http://www.emporiumonnet.com/beauty_health/hamdaed/Safi-Blood-Purifier.html

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posted March 22, 2008 09:42 AM         

Burdock may be, too, I'm not sure.