Burdock

Arctium lappa

Description

This plant has wavy-edged, arrow-shaped leaves and flower heads in burrlike clusters. It grows up to 2 meters tall, with purple or pink flowers and a large, fleshy root.

Habitat and Distribution

Burdock is found worldwide in the North Temperate Zone. Look for it in open waste areas during the spring and summer.

Edible Parts

Peel the tender leaf stalks and eat them raw or cook them like greens. The roots are also edible boiled or baked.

Other Uses

A liquid made from the roots will help to produce sweating and increase urination. Dry the root, simmer it in water, strain the liquid, and then drink the strained liquid. Use the fiber from the dried stalk to weave cordage.

Steve's notes:

Burdock has long been eaten as a springtime blood-cleansing food. It is vitamin and iron-rich.

The leaves can be eaten in the spring, when young, but they are tough, and may need boiling through two changes of water.

Some indian tribes dried the roots for use in winter. They also roasted and ground the roots to use as a coffee substitute.

Edible Plants | Burdock