January Herb of the Month: Freeze-dried Burdock

Burdock, a very pretty plant here in the Pacific Northwest with its burr-bearing flowers and large leaves, is a powerhouse of health benefits with detoxifying, pre-biotic and antioxidant properties. This blog post delves into the world of Burdock, exploring its historical uses, health benefits, and recipes.

Historical Significance:

Burdock, known scientifically as Arctium lappa, finds its roots extending back to ancient Europe and Asia. This versatile plant was valued not only as a nourishing food source but also for its array of beneficial properties. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as 'Niúbàng', burdock root was often used in efforts to support skin health, enhance digestion, and as a diuretic, with beliefs in its abilities to promote circulation and detoxification. European folk medicine also saw extensive use of burdock, particularly as a digestive aid, a diuretic, and for purifying the skin and blood. Among various Native American tribes, burdock was employed to cleanse and purify the system, support joint health, and promote circulation. In Japanese traditional medicine, where burdock is called 'Gobo', it has been a dual-purpose entity – a beneficial herb and a staple food known for its distinctive earthy flavor and inclusion in daily diets. Western herbalism, particularly during the Middle Ages, recognized burdock as a key ingredient in numerous herbal remedies, used for a variety of conditions owing to its diuretic and digestive properties. This rich tapestry of cultural and historical uses underlines burdock's enduring significance in herbal traditions across the globe.

Health Benefits of Burdock:

Burdock (Arctium lappa) has long been valued in the herb world for its many health benefits, making it a valuable herb for overall wellness.

• Detoxification and Liver Support: Burdock is particularly renowned for its detoxifying properties. It supports liver function, a key organ in the body's natural detoxification process. This detoxification process can manifest in healthier skin and helps promote clear skin.
• Digestive Health: Rich in inulin, a type of soluble fiber, Burdock aids in digestion and enhances gut health. Inulin acts as a prebiotic, promoting healthy gut bacteria, which is essential for proper digestion and overall gut health. 
• Antioxidant Properties: Burdock is a powerhouse of antioxidants, including quercetin and luteolin, contribute to its health-giving properties, making it highly beneficial in supporting general health and wellness.
• Diuretic Effects and Kidney Health: Burdock has natural diuretic properties, meaning it helps in increasing urine output. This effect is beneficial for kidney health, as it aids in the elimination of waste and excess water from the body. By promoting the flushing out of toxins through urination, Burdock supports the kidneys in their crucial role of filtering and removing waste from the blood.

In addition to these benefits, the beneficial properties of Burdock extend to various aspects of health, making it an herb worth incorporating into one's wellness routine. Whether consumed as a tea, taken as a supplement, or included in meals, Burdock can offer significant health advantages and contribute to overall well-being.

Burdock Recipes:

Widely consumed in Japan and Asia, our Burdock recipes showcase the versatility and unique flavors of this remarkable herb. These recipes bring the wholesome benefits and distinct taste of Burdock right to your kitchen table.

Burdock Chips:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 medium-sized Burdock roots
  • Olive oil
  • Sea salt
  • Optional: your choice of seasoning (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
• Instructions:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Scrub the Burdock roots clean and slice them thinly, preferably using a mandoline for consistent thickness.
  • Toss the slices in a bowl with enough olive oil to coat them lightly. Sprinkle with sea salt and any additional seasonings you like.
  • Spread the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
  • Let them cool before serving. Enjoy these healthy chips as a snack or a side dish!

Creamy Burdock Soup:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of Burdock root, peeled and chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 4 cups of vegetable broth
  • 1 cup of coconut milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil
• Instructions:
  • In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  • Add Burdock root and cook for a few minutes.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until Burdock is tender.
  • Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
  • Stir in coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper.

Sautéed Burdock Root (Kinpira Gobo):

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of Burdock root, julienned
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of sake (optional)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
• Instructions:
  • Soak julienned Burdock root in water for about 10 minutes, then drain.
  • Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add Burdock root and carrot. Stir-fry until slightly softened.
  • Add soy sauce, sugar, and sake. Continue to stir-fry until the vegetables are tender and glazed.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

These recipes showcase Burdock's unique flavor and versatility, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Conclusion:

Burdock, with its rich history and impressive health benefits, is a versatile herb that deserves more recognition. Whether used in cooking, as a health supplement, or in traditional remedies, Burdock is a valuable addition to any health repertoire.