Great Burdock Fruit is the dried mature fruit of Arctium lappa L., a biennial herb of the Asteraceae family. It is produced throughout China and is harvested in autumn. After drying, it can be used raw or stir-fried. It should be crushed before use.
Properties & Meridian Tropism
- Taste & Nature: Pungent, bitter, cold.
- Meridians Entered: Lung, Stomach.
Functions
Dispels wind-heat, promotes lung function and eruption, benefits the throat and resolves nodules, detoxifies and reduces swelling.
Clinical Applications
- Used for exterior wind-heat invasion with symptoms such as cough and difficulty in expectorating phlegm.
- Used for the early stage of measles, incomplete eruption, and wind-heat rash.
- Used for sore throat caused by wind-heat or heat toxins attacking the upper body.
- Used for heat toxin-induced sores, carbuncles, and mumps.
Usage & Dosage
Decoction: 6-12g. It can also be used in pills or powders. When used in decoctions, it should be crushed first. Stir-frying slightly reduces its cold nature.
Precautions
This herb has a laxative effect and may cause loose stools. Use with caution in individuals with spleen deficiency and diarrhea.