Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)

Dried root of Arctium lappa, Greater Burdock. The root is the most-used part of burdock in Western herbalism and also the form known as "gobo" in Japanese culinary tradition. Burdock has a long-documented place in Western traditions as an "alterative" - the historical herbal category of plants supporting body cleansing functions.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Arctium lappa

Family

Asteraceae

Common names

Greater Burdock, Edible Burdock, Gobo (Japanese)

Native region

Europe and Northern Asia; naturalized globally

Traditional Western use

Alterative, bitter digestive, skin support

Culinary use

Gobo in Japanese cuisine (kinpira, soup, stir-fry)

What is Burdock Root?

Burdock is a tall biennial plant native to Europe and Asia. The root grows long and slender (sometimes 2+ feet), with a sweet earthy flavor when fresh. The plant produces purple flower heads that mature into the bristly burrs that inspired the invention of Velcro. The root has uses across both Western herbalism (as an alterative tea) and Japanese cuisine (as gobo, a staple root vegetable).

How to Use Burdock Root

For decoction tea: simmer 1-2 teaspoons of dried root in 8 oz water for 15-20 minutes, then strain. For culinary use: rehydrate the dried root or use fresh; Japanese kinpira preparation involves shaving the root and sauteing with soy sauce and sesame.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is burdock used for?
In Western herbalism, traditionally as an "alterative" (cleansing/blood-supporting herb). In Japanese cuisine, as gobo, a staple culinary root.

What's the difference between Burdock Root and Burdock Leaf?
The root is the most-used Western medicinal part; the leaf has separate traditional uses.

What is gobo?
The Japanese culinary preparation of burdock root. Used in kinpira, soups, and stir-fries.

Is burdock related to Velcro?
Yes; the burrs inspired George de Mestral's 1948 invention of Velcro.

How do you cook gobo?
Traditional kinpira gobo: julienned burdock sauteed with carrot, soy sauce, and sesame.

What does burdock taste like?
Sweet and earthy when fresh; bitter and herbaceous as dried tea.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.