Using Burdock for Gout Relief and Prevention

Burdock is a plant which has medicinal properties thanks to active properties found in its root, leaf and seed. It contains chemicals that have been traditionally used as a ‘blood cleanser’, diuretic and for topical applications to help with skin problems. More recently, it has been more commonly used in therapy for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

Burdock for Gout Relief and Prevention

Burdock’s anti-inflammatory properties can help with providing pain relief from gout attacks as well as prevent uric acid induced inflammation in future gout flare-ups. Additionally, burdock’s traditional use as blood purifier and its activity that aids in the removal of toxins from the blood can help push uric acid – a waste product in the blood – out of the body. Finally, burdock’s activity as a natural diuretic that stimulates the increased production of urine allows for easier and efficient transport of uric acid out of the body.

Burdock Sources

Burdock is available in root form, fresh or dried. It can be purchased at your local health food store. It can also be found as a tea infusion, either on its own or combined with other herbs.

Burdock Supplement Variations

Burdock can be found in the following supplement variations:

• Dried root powder
• Decoctions
• Tinctures
• Fluid Extracts
• Capsules (Dried root extract)

As always, fluid extracts are more effective as they are easier absorbed by the body. However capsules offer convenience and cost effectiveness for most users.

How to Use Burdock for Gout Relief and Prevention

Burdock can be consumed in any form, as long as it follows the recommended doses and is consumed in moderate amounts. The following dosages are the recommended amounts dependent on supplement variation:

• Capsules: 1 to 2 grams, 3 times a day
• Dried Root tea infusion: steep 2 to 6 grams in 2/3 cups of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, then strain and drink, 3 times a day.
• Tincture: 30 to 60 drops, one time a day.
• Fluid extract: 30 to 60 drops, 2 times a day.

Precautions

The use of herbs such as burdock are considered safe when consumed in moderated amounts or under supervision by a health care practitioner. Herbs can trigger side-effects or interact with other herbs, supplements or medication and therefore you should monitor your reactions if you are taking dandelion with other supplements. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use burdock as it may cause damage to the fetus. If you are allergic to daisies, chrysanthemums or ragweed you should avoid burdock. Excessive use of burdock should be avoided as long-term usage has not been studied, therefore the effects are unknown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is burdock tea good?

A study conducted on 36 patients with knee osteoarthritis observed the medical application of burdock root tea as part of their therapy. The results of the study suggested found that the burdock root tea was effective in improving inflammatory status and oxidative stress in the patients.