
Is Burdock Root Good For Gout?
Burdock root is the kind of superfood that you can really root for (sorry). Rich in minerals, B-vitamins, and antioxidants, it’s a natural powerhouse with an impressive list of health benefits.
Burdock is known to help cleanse your system, boost your immunity, and support liver function. It might even help reduce inflammation and lower blood sugar.
Burdock root also contains prebiotics, which can promote healthy bacteria in your gut and aid digestion.
But that’s not all! Burdock root has also been used traditionally to support skin health and beauty. It can help clear up acne and provide relief from eczema. Plus, it may even help reduce wrinkles and age spots.
Burdock Root And Gout
Burdock root may also be able to help with gout, a type of arthritis caused by buildup of uric acid levels in the body.
Burdock root contains important compounds such as lignans and tannins that can help reduce inflammation and support liver detoxification—which can reduce levels of uric acid in the blood.
Lignans work by inhibiting the production of uric acid in the body, while tannins bind to excess uric acid and flush it out of your system.
Burdock also contains key minerals like potassium, phosphorus and magnesium that can help regulate the body’s pH balance and reduce levels of uric acid.
Potassium can help increase uric acid excretion, while phosphorus helps to reduce its production. Magnesium also plays a vital role in reducing inflammation and relieving pain associated with gout.
Burdock root is rich in B vitamins which can help reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and improve digestion. B vitamins also play a role in reducing stress levels—which can be beneficial for managing gout.
Burdock root is also an inhibitor of xanthine oxidase—an enzyme that increases uric acid levels in the body. Burdock root can help reduce the activity of this enzyme, helping to stabilize and lower levels of uric acid in the bloodstream.
Herbalists have long recommended Burdock root for its ability to reduce joint inflammation and support liver detoxification. Burdock root may also be beneficial for improving blood flow, reducing swelling and speeding up healing time.
One downside to burdock root is that it is a diuretic which means it can cause frequent urination. So drink plenty of water when taking Burdock root as dehydration can bring on gout attacks.
In a study by the International Journal Of Rheumatic Diseases, Burdock root tea was found to improve inflammatory status and oxidative stress in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Side Effects
Burdock root is generally safe and free of side effects. However, Burdock root should not be taken in large amounts or when pregnant as it may have diuretic properties.
It’s also important to speak with your doctor before taking Burdock root if you are taking any medications as Burdock root can interact with some drugs.
How To Make Burdock Root Tea
Burdock root tea is one of the best ways to enjoy the health benefits of Burdock root.
To make Burdock root tea, simply steep a teaspoon of Burdock root in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Strain out the Burdock and enjoy your delicious cup of Burdock root tea.
Burdock root can also be added to smoothies, soups and stir-fries for an extra boost of nutrition.
You can also buy burdock root supplements in capsule form if you don’t have time to make Burdock root tea.
Conclusion
Although used for centuries in Chinese medicine, evidence in Western medicine is a bit thin on the ground for burdock and gout relief. It has been shown to reduce arthritis symptoms in studies but that’s about it. So the verdict is still out.
So our Goutometer gives burdock root a 5/10.
If you’re looking for a natural way to manage your gout symptoms, Burdock root might be just the thing for you.
I would recommend tart cherry juice or turmeric for gout more than burdock root as they both have numerous clinical trials behind them. However, adding burdock root won’t do any harm.
Burdock root is available in supplement form as well as in teas and tinctures. So why not give Burdock root a try and see if it helps reduce your gout symptoms.
Good luck!
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