Grind your own burdock root for tea.
Herbalists have recommended burdock root tea for centuries as a blood purifier and diuretic. More recent animal studies have shown it may stimulate the action of the liver and the production of bile, as well as reduce the level of sugar in the blood and inhibit the growth of tumors. "Unfortunately, no one has ever demonstrated that any of these properties can help treat disease in humans," Andrea Peirce writes in "A Practical Guide to Natural Medicines." If you wish to make your own burdock tea, be sure you can identify the plant correctly, since it resembles the poisonous nightshade.
Instructions
1. Dig roots of the burdock plant, Arctium lappa or Arctium minus, in the spring, using a spade or trowel. The plant is a common weed in many areas of the U.S. along roadsides and in waste places. Ask an experienced botanist to help you identify the correct plant.
2. Cut off the tops with a knife and spread the roots to dry in the sun. Once they've shriveled and lost most of their moisture, store the dried roots in a dry, dark place for future use.
3. Chop up part of a dried root and grind it to a powder using a mortar and pestle or herb grinder.
4. Add 1 tsp. of dried powdered burdock root to 1 cup of water and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer 20 minutes. Strain out the remaining burdock root with a tea strainer before drinking the tea.
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