Indications: Burdock is a valuable remedy for skin conditions that cause dryness and
scaling. It may be effective for psoriasis when used for a long time. As part of a broader
treatment plan, it can be used for rheumatic symptoms, especially those associated with
psoriasis. Part of the action of burdock occurs through the bitter stimulation of the
digestive juices, particularly the stimulation of bile secretion.
Thus, it aids digestion and appetite. Burdock has been used in anorexia nervosa
and similar conditions. It helps with kidney function and healing of cystitis.
In general, this herb moves the body to a state of integration and health.
Externally, it may be used as a compress or poultice to speed wound and ulcer healing.
Eczema and psoriasis may also be treated externally. Remember, however, that chronic skin
problems can only be healed from within by using internal remedies.
Preparations and Dosage: To make a decoction, put 1 teaspoon root into 1 cup water.
Bring to boil, then simmer 10-15 minutes. Drink 3 times per day.
As a tincture, take 2-4 ml 3 times per day.
TINCTURES
Extracts of herbs in alcohol or glycerin are called tinctures.
Tinctures are much stronger, volume for volume, than infusions or decoctions, so the dosage
is usually much smaller. Tinctures also have a longer shelf life, extract all of the soluble
material from the plant, and tend to be less expensive than other preparations. Tinctures have
the benefit of concentration, making them more convenient to take.
Tinctures are used in a variety of ways. You can take one straight or
mix it with a cup of cool or hot water. When added to hot water, the
alcohol in the tincture will largely evaporate, leaving most of the
extract in the water. You can also add a few drops of tincture to a bath or
footbath, use it in a compress, mix it with oil and fat to make an ointment,
or use it to make suppositories and lozenges.
Wine-Based Tinctures
Another way to make a
kind of alcohol tincture is
to infuse herbs in wine.
Even though these wine-based preparations do not
have the shelf life of other
tinctures and are not as
concentrated, they can be
both pleasant to take and effective.
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