13 Health Benefits of Burdock Root Tea & 4 Types

Diana Barkley (Senior Editor)

Burdock root tea has been used for centuries as a healthy beverage in many countries worldwide. But does it really provide all its claimed benefits? Long story short, some of these alleged benefits are true, while most are baseless. We’ll break down proven ones and how to attain them in this post.

If you want to add burdock roots to your diet, you need to learn all about its benefits as well as its side effects. You should also know how to prepare it quickly and easily.

Equally important, a few tips and tricks for serving and drinking this tea will make the experience much more enjoyable. Now, let’s start with a quick look at the tea:

What Burdock Root Tea Is: Interesting Facts

What Burdock Root Tea Is: Interesting Facts

The following is a bunch of exciting information about burdock root tea and its origin:

What Burdock Root Tea Is Made Of

What Burdock Root Tea Is Made Of

As its name implies, burdock root tea is made from the burdock plant, also known as Arctium lappa. Burdock belongs to the Asteraceae family, along with daisies and sunflowers.

That plant has distinctive heart-shaped leaves and produces red or bright purple flowers. The roots are black or brownish green and can grow more than two feet tall.

Burdock is also well recognized for its burrs, which are round parts of the plant covered in hooks that quickly stick to your shoes and clothes as you pass by.

The tea is made only from the plant’s roots because they have the most benefits compared to all the other plant parts.

To produce burdock tea, manufacturers dry fresh burdock roots and then slice the dried roots into tiny pieces. This tea is sold in various forms, such as powder, dried roots, and extract, and it’s widely available at natural food stores.

To prepare the tea, you need to steep the roots in hot water for around 25 minutes, give or take a few. You can serve the tea alone or add lemon or honey to improve flavor.

Origin and Where Burdock Root Tea Comes From

Origin and Where Burdock Root Tea Comes From

Many people around the world consume this tea as a part of their healthy diet to get its countless health advantages. It’s also an integral part of contemporary traditional Chinese medicine. But where did it originally come from?

The burdock plant is native to Europe and North Asia and has been used for centuries in the United Kingdom, China, and Japan.

Today, this plant grows beyond its native habitat in multiple countries worldwide, including the US.

If you go hiking regularly, you’ve likely seen burdock plants in your adventures in the deep forest, where they grow abundantly.

What Burdock Root Tea Tastes Like

What Burdock Root Tea Tastes Like

Burdock root tea has an earthy, mildly herbal, and slightly sweet flavor. Its taste is comforting and rich, which makes it an excellent option for people looking for a soothing beverage.

Nonetheless, the tea’s taste slightly differs depending on its origin as well as its production and preparation method. How you consume it, whether hot or iced, can notably impact its overall flavor as well.

That said, you can always improve the flavor using your preferred healthy additions. For example, add honey to increase its sweetness or lemon to give the beverage an acidic taste.

Nutritional Facts and Calories of Burdock Root Tea

Nutritional Facts and Calories of Burdock Root Tea

Like many healthy beverages, burdock root tea is zero-calorie if prepared without additions.

It only contains minuscule protein, carbohydrates, and fats. So you can use it worry-free as a part of any diet you follow.

Further, this beverage isn’t a tea by the traditional meaning; it’s caffeine-free. This makes it suitable for consumption at any time of the day, even close to bedtime.

Despite being almost macronutrient-free, this tea is rich in antioxidants and natural compounds that can provide numerous benefits. We’ll break down all these health benefits in the next section.

Health Benefits of Burdock Root Tea

Health Benefits of Burdock Root Tea

Research studies on burdock tea are still relatively limited. However, the few scientific studies that have been conducted have found promising health advantages. The following are some of these benefits:

Rich in Antioxidants

Rich in Antioxidants

Burdock roots contain diverse potent antioxidants, including luteolin, quercetin, and phenolic acids. These compounds are known for their powerful impact on reducing cell damage caused by free radicals.

They also can prevent and treat a wide variety of health conditions. In addition, antioxidants have considerable anti-inflammatory impacts.

A 2014 study showed that burdock root reduced inflammation in the body of an osteoarthritis patient.

Similarly, an animal study found that the antioxidant properties of burdock can improve the symptoms of diabetes in mice. Nonetheless, we still need more human research in this regard.

Boosts Immune System

Boosts Immune System

Burdock root tea can do a great job of boosting your immunity by stimulating the lymphatic system.

It does so by draining the waste from your body, which decreases the load on the immune system. This allows it to fight against pathogens more effectively.

In addition, burdock roots’s inulin content promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which is vital for strong immunity. This is because a significant portion of the immune system exists in your gut.

Further, burdock root’s anti-inflammatory properties can decrease the chances of developing immune system disorders.

A Natural Diuretic

A Natural Diuretic

Because of its diuretic properties, many people use burdock roots to get rid of their excessive body water. It can remove retained water for people who suffer from specific lung, kidney, or heart conditions.

Might Protect from Cancer

Might Protect from Cancer

Preliminary studies on burdock roots found that it might inhibit some types of cancer. Research has shown that the plant extract inhibits the growth of pancreatic carcinoma.

Likewise, an animal study on mice has shown that burdock root can stop the growth of melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

That being said, this herb isn’t yet medically approved as a treatment or prevention of cancer.

The reason is that more research is still needed to assess its effectiveness and side effects in the long run.

May be Used as an Aphrodisiac

May be Used as an Aphrodisiac

Much anecdotal evidence claims that burdock roots are powerful aphrodisiacs. This is also what an animal study has found.

That study reported that male rats that consumed burdock extract showed noticeable improvement in their sexual function and an increase in sexual behavior.

Nonetheless, there are still no human studies to support these animal studies and the anecdotal evidence.

Might Treat Various Skin Problems

Might Treat Various Skin Problems

One of the historical usages of burdock roots is as a treatment for various skin conditions. The plant has proved its effectiveness in treating such issues because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties can accelerate skin healing and provide considerable protection against infections.

A study on people with acne has found surprising results from using burdock extract supplements as a treatment. The participants who took the supplement experienced a remarkable decrease in pimples within six months.

That said, the study had no control group, and the number of participants was relatively few. We need larger-scale controlled studies to confirm these results.

Relieves Respiratory Issues

Relieves Respiratory Issues

Burdock roots have been shown to reduce excess mucus secretions or phlegm and eliminate them from the body. As such, it can benefit your lung function and protect you from breathing difficulties and allergies.

Can “Purify” the Blood

Can “Purify” the Blood

Burdock roots have been used in multiple forms in traditional Chinese medicine for detoxification. There’s no apparent reason for this, but it may be because of its ability to treat some bacteria and infections.

Might Lower Blood Sugar

Might Lower Blood Sugar

Multiple animal studies and test tubes have shown that chlorogenic acid and fructooligosaccharides compounds found in burdock roots impact blood sugar.

They can significantly lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.

Still, research is needed to confirm these benefits for humans.

Improves Liver Health

Improves Liver Health

You can also use burdock root tea to detoxify your liver. It’s well known in herbal medicine for its multiple benefits to the liver.

This tea can stimulate bile production, which improves the process of eliminating toxins and waste from the bloodstream. It promotes overall health and liver functions too.

Additionally, because burdock manages blood sugar, this can reduce the burden of glucose management in the liver. For the same reason, this herbal tea protects you from fatty liver disease.

Further, a study on rats showed that burdock roots can dramatically reverse liver damage resulting from too much alcohol consumption.

Although there’s no similar human study so far, many people around the globe have been using this beverage for decades for liver detoxification.

Improves Digestion

Improves Digestion

Burdock root is an excellent source of prebiotic fiber called inulin, known for its impact on enhancing digestion. This dietary fiber also makes you feel full, reducing the amount of food you consume.

As such, your digestive system will have less food to handle, which means better digestion overall.

Might Soothe Cold and Cough

Might Soothe Cold and Cough

Although no scientific evidence so far proves its effectiveness, burdock tea has been used as an expectorant for cough and cold for decades.

Anecdotal evidence claims its efficacy in this role. We believe it’s used to treat these issues because of its vitamin C content and antioxidants that support the immune system.

Manage Blood Pressure

Manage Blood Pressure

Because of its diuretic effect, burdock tea eliminates excessive water and salt from your body. This way, it can help you manage your high blood pressure, as lowering the fluid volume in your blood vessels can lower blood pressure.

Potential Risks of Burdock Root Tea

Potential Risks of Burdock Root Tea

Besides its multiple benefits, burdock tea has its share of potential side effects you need to be aware of. The following are a few safety considerations about this tea to keep in mind:

Its Safety for Children Is Untested

Its Safety for Children Is Untested

There’s no research to evaluate the safety of burdock tea on children. So, until research confirms it’s safe for little ones, you should never provide this tea to your kids.

Can Cause Dehydration

Can Cause Dehydration

Because it’s a diuretic, burdock root tea can increase your dehydration if used incorrectly. You should never consume it if you’re already dehydrated. It’s also not wise to ingest it if you take water pills or other diuretics.

May Cause Allergic Reactions

May Cause Allergic Reactions

If you’re allergic to daisies or chrysanthemums, we don’t recommend consuming burdock tea. In your case, the beverage might increase the risk of having allergic reactions.

To stay safe, it’s advised to consult your medical care professional before consuming it.

Can Result in Bloating

Can Result in Bloating

Burdock roots contain a high amount of inulin. Research reports that most people can tolerate up to 20 grams of inulin daily.

However, this type of fiber may cause bloating or gas for some people. This is especially probable if you’re sensitive to other inulin-rich foods, such as bananas and asparagus.

May Interact with Sugar-Lowering Medications

May Interact with Sugar-Lowering Medications

Consuming burdock root tea may interact with sugar-lowering medications because of the tea’s natural ability to lower blood sugar.

This combination might severely decrease blood sugar, risking your life.

That’s why you should consult your medical professional before using burdock with a sugar-lowering drug.

Is Burdock Root Tea in Pregnancy Good For You?

Is Burdock Root Tea in Pregnancy Good For You?

If you’re pregnant or during a breastfeeding period, consuming burdock tea isn’t recommended.

After all, research evaluating the safety of this tea is still fairly limited. So, we can’t decisively determine whether it adversely affects pregnant women and those with breastfed babies.

How to Make Burdock Root Tea at Home: A Simple Guide

How to Make Burdock Root Tea at Home: A Simple Guide

Preparing a cup of burdock root tea is a breeze; you can use several recipes to prepare this beverage. All you need is a few simple ingredients. The following are four easy recipes to enjoy a healthy and tasty cup of burdock root tea:

Traditional Burdock Root Tea

Traditional Burdock Root Tea

To prepare burdock tea the traditional way, with no additional herbs or flavors, here’s the recipe to follow:

Ingredients

Ingredients

You need the following ingredients to make your own traditional burdock root tea:

• 50-100 grams of dried and sliced burdock roots.
• Four cups of water
• Lemon or honey to improve flavor (optional)

Note: If you use raw roots, wash them well and then slice them into small pieces. Place the root pieces on a baking sheet and dry them until their texture becomes crisp.

Instructions

Instructions

Once you have the required ingredients, here’s how to prepare the beverage:

1. Boil water in a pot, add dried root pieces, then lower the heat.
2. Leave the burdock roots steep for around 15 minutes in the hot water.
3. Now it’s time to enjoy the tea. For the best experience, serve it warm.
4. If you want it to improve the flavor, add a teaspoon of honey or a squeeze of lemon.

Burdock and Ginger Tea

Burdock and Ginger Tea

If you’re into ginger and want to add its flavor to your burdock root tea, you can mix both to prepare a delectable beverage. Here’s how to make a cup of burdock and ginger tea:

Ingredients

Ingredients

You need the following ingredients to make your own burdock and ginger tea:

• Around 50 grams of sliced burdock roots
• One inch of sliced fresh ginger
• Four cups of water
• Honey for sweetening (option)

Instructions

Instructions

Using the above ingredients, here are the steps to follow:

1. Add the ginger, burdock roots, and water to a saucepan.
2. Place the mixture on medium to high heat until boiling. At this point, reduce the heat and keep the mixture simmering between 20 to 30 minutes.
3. When done, strain the beverage into cups and serve it. You can add a little honey to sweeten it.

Burdock and Cinnamon Tea

Burdock and Cinnamon Tea

If you’re a cinnamon lover, this recipe is for you. It’ll yield burdock tea that’s more aromatic and dominated by the powerful taste of cinnamon. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients

Ingredients

You need the following ingredients to make your own burdock and cinnamon tea:

• Around 50 grams of sliced burdock roots
• Four cups of water
• One cinnamon stick
• Honey or brown sugar for sweetening (optional)

Instructions

Instructions

Once you have these ingredients, here are the steps to follow:

1. In a saucepan, add the cinnamon stick, burdock roots, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and allow the ingredients to simmer for around 25 minutes.
3. Once done, strain the beverage into cups and serve it. You can add honey or brown sugar as a sweetener.

Barley Burdock Coffee

Barley Burdock Coffee

Another way to enjoy a burdock beverage is to prepare a barley burdock coffee. It’s an aromatic, healthful, and delicious beverage. The following is the recipe instructions:

Ingredients

Ingredients

You need the following ingredients to make your own barley burdock coffee:

• 2 tbsp of dried burdock roots
• ¼ cup of barley
• 2 sliced, dried figs
• 1 tbsp of roasted chicory roots
• 6 cups of water
• A 3-inch cinnamon stick
• 2 ¼ inch ginger roots

Instructions

Instructions

Using the above ingredients, here are the steps to prepare your barley burdock coffee:

1. Place the barley in a thin pot and roast it over high heat for around 5 minutes. While roasting, keep stirring until it turns brown.
2. Combine the roasted barley and the rest of the ingredients in a large saucepan. Place them over high heat and bring them to a boil.
3. Watch the mixture closely to prevent it from boiling over. At the boiling point, decrease the heat and keep the mixture simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Once done, remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the beverage into cups.
5. You can serve it warm or iced.

Tips for Drinking and Serving Burdock Root Tea

Tips for Drinking and Serving Burdock Root Tea

To maximize the enjoyment and benefit of drinking burdock tea, here are a few tips to follow:

Combine Burdock Root Tea with Fresh Herbs

Combine Burdock Root Tea with Fresh Herbs

You can combine burdock tea with other herbs to improve its flavor or boost its health benefits. Some herbs you can add to burdock roots include ginger, yellow dock, chicory, and cinnamon.

In addition to their beloved flavor, these herbs have more health advantages for the skin and overall health.

In fact, many brands add burdock root tea to a wide variety of healthy tea blends, including those for liver cleaning, detox, joint support, digestive aid, and more.

Store Properly to Preserve Its Taste and Quality

Store Properly to Preserve Its Taste and Quality

You’ll consume your burdock root tea product over a month or more. For this reason, you need to pay close attention to how you store it to maintain its taste and quality.

We recommend storing this herb in a mason jar and keeping it in a dry, cool, and dark place.

Enhance the Flavor

Enhance the Flavor

The earthy flavor of burdock roots can seem unpleasant for many when trying this beverage for the first time. As such, we recommend adding a flavor enhancer like lemon or honey when you first try out this beverage.

The good flavor these healthy additions bring will encourage you to easily incorporate the tea into your diet.

Have It After Meals

Have It After Meals

Although you can consume burdock root tea any time of the day, most people prefer to have this beverage post-meals.

This is because of its positive impact on digestion, which may improve nutrient absorption.

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