Burdock / Gobo
Arctium lappa
Burdock root (Gobo) is a staple of Japanese cuisine and traditional medicine. Arctigenin, the primary lignan, inhibits tumour cell proliferation, induces apoptosis, and has been studied against pancreatic, colorectal, and cervical cancers. Inulin (prebiotic fibre) in burdock supports a healthy gut microbiome — increasingly linked to cancer immunotherapy outcomes. Burdock is also a key ingredient in Essiac tea.
Medicinal Properties
Cancer Types Studied
Recommended Dosage
Fresh root: 100–200 g cooked daily (as Gobo). Dried root tea: 1–2 tsp in 250 ml water, simmer 10 minutes, 2–3 cups daily. Extract: 300–500 mg standardised arctigenin daily.
Preparations
Kinpira Gobo (Japanese Sauté)
Julienne burdock root, sauté in sesame oil with carrot, season with soy sauce and mirin. Traditional Japanese side dish consumed daily as a cancer-preventive food.
Burdock Root Tea (Decoction)
1–2 tsp dried burdock root in 2 cups water, simmer 20 minutes, strain. Drink 2 cups daily. Often combined with dandelion root.
NIH / PubMed Research
Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.
Cautions & Interactions
- May lower blood sugar — monitor in diabetics
- May enhance diuretic effect of medications
- Avoid in pregnancy (uterine stimulant potential)
- Cross-reactivity with chrysanthemum family (ragweed allergy)
Related Herbs
Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before use.