Burdock

Scientific name: Arctium lappa L.

Common name: burdock.

English name: burdock, edible burdock, burdock lappa, clotibur.

Parts used: leaves, root, rhizome and essential oil.

Components: essential oil, polyphenols, inulin and phytosterols.

A strong plant around 80-180 cm tall which grows uncultivated.

Properties: beneficial for oily and congested acne-prone skin and for greasy scalp due to anti-seborrheic properties. It also promotes the body's cleansing functions.

The root is traditionally consumed in Japan under the name of gobo, but due to its inulin content it is easily perishable (so make sure it is always well dried).

An ancient medieval proverb says, "if you want to keep old age away, make friends with chicory and burdock."