Bountiful Burdock

Burdock....Common Weed, Uncommon Healer
Growing up as I did in the
Northeast, among urban folk,
I heard a lot about Burdock .
an invasive weed that sent out
little Velcro balls that got on
the dog, clothes and more.
Most of the discussion around this beautiful
plant was less than flattering.
Since then, I have discovered that Burdock,
one of the main ingredients in the cancer fighting
Essiac tea formula, is one of the best tonic (can
be used daily) herbs going. The root is most
commonly used, however, I usually roll up my
trout in a leaf when outdoor cooking and it is
most delicious!
Burdock root is one of the best blood
cleansers. It benefits the skin, soothes kidneys,
and relieves congestion of the lymphatic system.
Its diuretic properties increase the flow of urine,
helping with weight loss. Eczema, psoriasis, itch,
boil, cystitis, and scurvy .this useful .weed.
helps all. One of the ways this herb works is
through the bitter stimulation of the digestive
juices and especially of bile secretion. Burdock is
best when used over time. With herbs classified
as alternatives .which mean they gradually
restore proper functioning to the body, the
healing that takes place is of a gentle and long
lasting nature and usually something that takes
time. We are so concerned with getting rid of
our symptoms we often forget that there is an
underlying issue, which must be dealt with if
we.re to truly be restored to balance/health.
So perhaps you.ve seen Burdock Root in the
produce section and wondered, .What can I do
with that?. Well, you can boil the chopped roots
for 20 min. covered and then let it steep for
another 10-15 min and you.ll have a nice
decoction (read tea) to drink.you can store it in
the fridge for about a week. I like to put the
chopped root in my soups. For me, it.s about
merging the weekly leftovers in water and adding
the burdock root in ¼ inch slices . much like a
carrot. It adds a subtle taste and good medicine.
If you want a start from scratch soup, sauté
some onions in the soup pot, and then add your
water, Carrots, Celery and Burdock root, boil for
20-30 min then add your greens .like Kale
Collards, Chard and Dandelion. Cook a little
longer .say 10-20 min and then add your herbs
.I like the Italian seasonings from the bulk
section. Let the whole thing sit, covered, and
blend flavors for another 15 min and you have a
yummy heart warming soup to comfort you on a
cold winter day. You can be creative with this
recipe, of course .adding all kinds of different
root vegetables and swapping spices to get it just
the way you like it. Remember .when
experimenting, do so days before you have guests
coming for dinner .just in case! When you make
soup remember that your intentions and energy
goes into the food just as much as the ingredients
you put in there, so infuse the love and good
energy you feel and no matter the recipe, your
guests will feel it and be held in your good
wishes. Cooking when cranky hurts everyone .
go out on those occasions! May all your meals
nourish you on a deep level.