Niu Bang Zi
StarArctium lappa
Synonyms: Lappa major, Arctium lappa subsp. majus, Lappa bardana var. major, Lappa communis var. major, Arctium majus, Arctium lappa var. majus, Lappa arctium, Lappa officinalis, Lappa communis, Lappa bardana, Lappa lappa
☯ TCM Properties
Disperses Wind-Heat and benefits the throat; Relieves toxicity and vents rashes; Moistens the Intestines
Traditional Chinese Uses
Niu Bang Zi (burdock fruit, arctium seed) is a cold, pungent-bitter herb that disperses Wind-Heat and clears Heat toxin. It is used for Wind-Heat patterns with fever, sore throat, and cough; for facilitating the expression of measles and rashes that are erupting slowly; and for carbuncles, boils, and mumps from Heat toxin accumulation. Its descending action benefits constipation with heat, and its throat-soothing properties make it an ingredient in many classical sore throat formulas.
Western Herbalism Properties
Gallery
Botanical Description
Arctium lappa is a biennial herb in the daisy family (Asteraceae), growing 1-3 m tall. First-year plants form a large basal rosette of heart-shaped leaves up to 50 cm wide with whitish, woolly undersides. Second-year plants produce tall, branched flowering stems. Flower heads are globe-shaped, bearing purple tubular florets surrounded by hooked bracts that attach to passing animals or clothing (burrs). The taproot is large, fleshy, brown outside and white inside, reaching 1 m or more in depth.
Roadsides, waste places, forest edges, and disturbed habitats; native to temperate Eurasia and widely naturalized in North America and elsewhere.
Arctium lappa is a widespread and common plant throughout Eurasia. It is an agricultural weed and invasive plant in some regions of North America. No conservation concerns.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-12 g | daily | — | adult | Crush before decocting; use with caution in Spleen deficiency with loose stools. |
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
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