Posted by Anna Li

Burdock root tea: what it is, traditional use and flavor

Burdock root tea: what it is, traditional use and flavor

Quick answer: Burdock root (Arctium lappa), called niubang in Chinese, is a long, earthy root eaten and brewed across Asia and Europe. In Inner Code, it's in Ground, our luteal phase blend, where it gives the cup a grounded, mildly sweet depth.

At a glance

Also known as

Found in

Cycle phase

Flavor

Caffeine

niubang; Arctium lappa

Ground

Luteal

Earthy, mildly sweet

None

Traditional use

Burdock has been used in China for over 3,000 years, and its traditional uses are documented in the Compendium of Materia Medica [1]. In folk traditions across Europe and Asia, the root is also brewed as a tea for digestion [2].

What the research says

A review of burdock's pharmacology summarizes lab research on its plant compounds. The same review notes that burdock can cause contact dermatitis and other allergic reactions in some people [1]. We describe burdock by its traditional use, and we suggest skipping it if you have a known allergy to plants in the daisy family.

Flavor and how to brew

Earthy, mildly sweet and slightly woody, a little like roasted root vegetables. Dried slices simmered in water for 10 minutes make a mellow cup.

Where you'll find it

Burdock root is in Ground (luteal phase). Shop the Cycle Syncing Tea Ritual Kit. Related reading: Luteal phase tea: best ingredients to stay grounded

Frequently asked questions

What does burdock root tea taste like?

Earthy, mildly sweet and slightly woody.


Is burdock root tea caffeine-free?

Yes. Burdock root tea is made from a root and contains no caffeine. Every Inner Code blend is caffeine-free.


Which Inner Code tea has burdock root?

Burdock root is in Ground, our luteal phase tea.


If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a condition, check with your healthcare provider before adding herbal teas.


Sources: [1] Chan YS, Cheng LN, Wu JH, et al. A review of the pharmacological effects of Arctium lappa (burdock). Inflammopharmacology, 2011. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20981575/ [2] Arctium species: chemistry and biological activities review. Frontiers in Plant Science, 2019. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2019.00834/full

 


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