Burdock

To me, Burdock is one of those herbal names that I have heard a lot, but really had no clue what it WAS. Once I saw a picture though, I recognized it as a plant that was responsible for hours we spent in childhood picking burrs out of the dog's coat!

The information regarding burdock is very controversial. And there are a lot of warnings as well, far more than for most herbs. More serious concerns, along with the "We just don't know" answers.

There are studies that indicate that it could lower blood sugar in animals, but there are also conflicting studies that indicate that it can aggravate diabetes. Since we do not know what the conditions of the studies were, there is no way to know if it helps one type and aggravates another, or whether there is any predictable way to know whom it might help, and whom it might harm.

The plant can be toxic if overused, and it is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women. It is also very easily confused with more deadly plants, so if you decide to use it, make sure you know that it is coming from a company that has a high reputation for purity and quality.

Given the controversy, and the potential dangers associated with this one, I'd not personally try it at this point in my life - I think I'd have to be fairly desperate before I'd risk it.

Written by Laura Wheeler, Owner of Firelight Business Enterprises, Inc.