Burdock
Also known as: arctium
Burdock root is consumed as food and is generally safe. NIH/NCCIH notes that burdock has been used as a traditional medicinal plant; however, contamination of commercial burdock teas with belladonna alkaloids has been reported historically, causing atropine-like toxicity.
What it is
The root or aerial parts of Arctium lappa, used as a vegetable in East Asian cuisine and as a traditional herbal ingredient.
Root vegetable used in soups, stir-fries, and herbal teas; source of inulin.
Why it's flagged
- historical contamination of teas with belladonna alkaloids
- potential for allergic reactions
What regulators actually say
"Essential oils, oleoresins... that are generally recognized as safe... Burdock (Arctium lappa L., A. minus Bernh.)."
"A. lappa root has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine and food. Modern studies report antioxidant and antiinflammatory activity."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as natural flavoring (21 CFR 182.20 - Arctium lappa)
European Union — EFSA
Considered a traditional food/herbal ingredient
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