How to Make Burdock Tea

Burdock root or Artium lappa is known for its medicinal properties and can be made into a tea, or sliced and added to broths or soups. Grown in Asia and Europe, historically, burdock root was used to treat arthritis, colds, measles, sore throats and tonsillitis. According to the National Institutes of Health, recent studies have explored burdock for use to treat cancer, HIV, kidney stones and bacterial infections, but they state more study is needed before recommendations can be made for these uses. See you doctor before consuming herbal teas if you have any serious medical issues.

Chopped, sliced and grated burdock root on a cutting board. (Image: TAGSTOCK1/iStock/Getty Images)

Step 1

Select fresh burdock root so that you use one that is firm and not too soft. It may be very dark like tree bark or in a lighter color closer to the color of parchment paper. These do not keep well, so make soup with whatever you do not use for tea.

Step 2

Clean burdock root by scraping with the rough edge of the knife if the root is older, or simply wipe with a clean cloth if it is a younger root. If you are not able to find fresh burdock root, you could use 1 tablespoon of dried burdock root that has been dried and aged for at least a year.

Step 3

Coarsely chop about 2 tablespoons of the root and place into a small stainless pot. Add 3 cups of filtered or spring water. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 4

Allow to steep for another 20 minutes. Serve hot. Drink throughout the day as a detox tea. Remember, as with many herbal teas, burdock root tea is diuretic, so don't over-consume.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh burdock root (Asian or health food markets)

• Small stainless steel pot with cover

• 2 cups water