Burdock

Botanical Name: Arctium lappa

Fun Facts:      

• Is biennial.  In its first year, is low growing, but in its second year, can grow to 6′ tall
• Know as the first “velcro” because of the burrs it produces after flowering
• Was an ingredient in the first root beer

Location found: Lives along riverbanks, disturbed habitats, vacant lots, roadsides and fields.  Can be found throughout North America, except in the southern regions.

Identification: Has large, wavy heart-shaped leaves that are green on the top and whitish on the bottom.  Looks very similiar to rhubarb.  Has a large tap root.

Edible Parts: First year roots and second year stems, seeds

Harvesting:

• Do not pick near roads, walkways or other areas where there is potential of the area having been sprayed with chemicals.

Culinary Uses:

•  Roots should be scrubbed and bitter rinds removed by peeling before boiling for about 20 minutes.  Taste similiar to potatoes.

•  Young stems from second year can be picked before flowers appear.  They taste like artichokes.
• Young roots can be chopped and roasted to make a coffee substitute.

Medicinal Uses:

•  As a diuretic, is a blood purifier and helps eliminate toxins in the body
• Can help with skin problems such as excema, psoriasis and skin dryness
• Aids as an appetite stimulant
• Good remedy for gas and indigestion
• Contains vitamins C and E (both antioxidants), which help fight infections, cancer and neurological conditions
• Contains inulin, which is a carbohydrate that strengthens the liver
• Is antifungal and antibacterial
• Helpful in cellular regeneration
• Useful in the treatment of Hepatitus