Burdock Root

Burdock Root (Niu Bang Gen): A Bitter, Cool Food Therapy for Clearing Heat, Supporting Detoxification, and Promoting Healthy Skin

Introduction

Burdock Root, known as Niu Bang Gen (牛蒡根) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy, is traditionally used to clear Heat, support detoxification, and promote healthy skin. Bitter and cool in nature, it is valued for helping dispel Wind-Heat, relieve toxicity, and gently support digestion and elimination.

What Is Burdock Root (Niu Bang Gen)?

Burdock Root is the root of Arctium lappa, widely used in Asian and Western herbal traditions. In TCM food therapy, Niu Bang Gen is added to soups, teas, and stir-fries to clear Heat, benefit the throat, and support the body’s natural detoxifying processes without being harsh.

Health Benefits of Burdock Root (Niu Bang Gen)

Clear Heat and Relieve Toxicity
Burdock Root is traditionally used to clear Heat and reduce toxic accumulations, especially in early-stage sore throats or skin eruptions.

Support Healthy Skin
It helps promote clear skin by cooling Heat in the Blood and supporting elimination through the digestive system.

Benefit the Throat
Often used for sore throat, hoarseness, or discomfort associated with Wind-Heat patterns.

Support Digestion and Elimination
Burdock Root gently promotes bowel movement and supports digestive balance, particularly when Heat contributes to constipation.

How to Use Burdock Root (Niu Bang Gen)

As a Food Therapy
Burdock Root can be sliced and added to soups, broths, stir-fries, or brewed as a tea.

As a Daily Support
Suitable in moderate amounts as part of balanced meals, especially during times of excess Heat or skin imbalance.

In Traditional Preparations
Often combined with chrysanthemum, dandelion, or mung beans for enhanced Heat-clearing and detoxifying effects.

Where to Buy Burdock Root

Burdock Root is available fresh in Asian markets, dried in herbal shops, and in powder or tea form online. Choose firm, fresh roots or clean, dry slices without mold or excessive moisture.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Burdock Root is generally safe as a food. Because it is cooling and mildly laxative, individuals with weak digestion, chronic diarrhea, or Cold patterns should use it in moderation.

Conclusion

Burdock Root (Niu Bang Gen) is a cooling TCM food therapy used to clear Heat, support detoxification, benefit the throat, and promote healthy skin.

FAQs

Is Burdock Root toxic?
No, Burdock Root is non-toxic and widely consumed as both a vegetable and traditional food therapy ingredient.

Can Burdock Root be used daily?
Yes, in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet, especially when Heat-clearing support is desired.

Is Burdock Root warming or cooling?
It is considered cool, with Heat-clearing and detoxifying properties when properly prepared.