Burdock
Also known as : Greater Burdock, Gobo, Edible Burdock, Lappa, Beggars buttons, Billy Buttons, Thorny Burr, Happy Major, Fox’s Clote, Love leaves, Cockle buttons, Clot Bur
Scientific Name : Arctium Lappa
Properties : Diuretic, Diaphoretic, Anti-biotic, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory
Uses : Detoxifying blood and liver, boils, Sores, acne, Eczema, piles, Used in Essiac tea for cancer treatment, Cosmetics and Shampoos, Culinary. Still popular in the UK in a soft drink called Dandelion and Burdock. Traditionally used instead of Hops as a bitter taste for beer.
Try It : In the Middle Ages it was a popular root vegetable with a large root that can grow to a 1m in length. May/June is the perfect time to harvest, prior to the flowers when the root becomes too tough. it tastes a little like artichoke, can be eaten raw in salads or cooked (Still popular in Asian cooking).
Warnings : Not to be taken by anyone on medication to increase urine flow or lower blood sugar.
Parts used: Root (Normally dried) and Leaves
Magic : Fey Magic, Counter Magic, Warding, Cleansing (Mix with water and Lemon Balm for a cleansing floor wash)
Planet : Venus
Element : Earth
Deities : Thor
Folklore : In Cornwall uk the Pixies and Fairies tie “billy buttons” into the Maine’s of their colts. In Gypsy magical practice the seeds would be carried as an amulet to ward off arthritis. The Burs were used for children’s games as they stick to anything (They are supposed to have given the inventor of Velcro the idea)
Plant Tips : Prefers freshly worked soil in a position of full sunlight.
