Burdock - fantatsic detox herb
Burdock is a a fantastic herbal supplement which has been used
for many centuries primarily as a detoxing agent. In 'ancient'
herbal terms, it is an 'alterative', which means it tends to change
disease processes. It is a very safe herb and is used in many
combinations to help the kidneys, liver, joints, muscles, and
general health.
This plant is related to the daisy family. It is also
closely related to Echinacea, Dandelion, and Feverfew. In
ancient times the Greeks used the roots, the seeds, and the greens
for healing purposes. Throughout the Middle Ages Burdock was used
for both food and medicine.
Today, Burdock is still used for such things as easing liver
problems and digestive disorders. It also has a strong reputation
for helping skin problems such as for acne, as well as to help
digestive problems. Thoughout Europe, the stalk and the greens
are eaten as a vegetable.
As more and more research is being
done on Burdock many new and interesting discoveries are
cropping up. A relationship is being examined between Burdock
and its anti fungal and anti bacterial properties, and even
more important it is showing signs of possibly being able to
fight against tumors and could be a cancer fighting agent as
well. Research has shown that since many of the cancer causing
compounds are in almost all foods which are then eaten and
stored in the human fat tissues that Burdock might very well
be of help in fighting cancer because of the role that it can
play in depleting these mutagens.
Burdock is also very helpful in strengthening the immune system
when it has become weakened by environmental factors. When mixed
with other herbs such as Dandelion and Ginger it can be a very
powerful blood purifier. The most unique fact about Burdock is that
it has a very high amount of inulin which is a natural occurring
chemical within the body that mimics actions of insulin. Because of
this, Burdock has been successful in helping combat hypoglycemia
and pre diabetes conditions.
If you look for Burdock in the market you may find it called
gobo instead as that is what some refer to it as. It is often
combined with other vegetables or added to Tofu. Some boil Burdock
while others saut or deep fry it. Many have said it might not be
such a good idea to look at Burdock before you eat it because you
might change your mind about taking a bite.
It looks thick, dark, and woody but indeed the opposite is true
when it comes to the taste. Burdock is well recognized as a health
food because it has low calorie content and a high fiber intake. It
is also loaded with potassium, iron, and calcium. People claim that
Burdock tastes like nothing else. In other words it has a taste all
of its own.
From a food point of view, the best description that people can
agree on when it comes to the flavor of Burdock is that it is sweet
yet earthy, with a tender and crisp texture. It is often added to
stews, soups, and stir fries. In the form of food, Burdock is
highly nutritional and full of vitamins.
As a herbal supplement and a medicinal herb, Burdock is
especially effective for promoting detox, for skin problems, and
for promoting general health.
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