the pain and hasten healing.
HOMEOPATHIC CLINICAL: Tincture of fresh root for acne, bunion, Dupuytren’s contracture, eczema
serpeginosa, eruptions, glands (affections of), gonorrhea, gout, impotence, leukorrhea, phosphaturia,
rheumatism, ringworm, scrofula, sterility, ulcers, uterus (prolapsus of).
RUSSIAN EXPERIENCE: As in North America, herbs have several common names. Burdock is very popular
scientifically and as a home medicine; it is known as repeinik or lopuh, very close to the official Latin
name of lappa. Burdock roots contain 27–45 percent inulin, up to 12 percent protein, and oils and other
trace minerals. Therefore it is easy to understand why they consider food as medicine and medicine as
food. It is best to collect the roots of one- or two-year-old plants in the autumn. Folk medicine: The use
of burdock in Russia can be traced back many generations as both a table herb and a medicinal herb.
Especially valued as a diaphoretic for dropsy, gout, and rheumatism. Clinically: Used in the form of
extracts, ointments, tinctures, and oils for the same purposes that folk medicine has used it for generations.
Food: If you happen to see persons digging a hole in Russia it could very well be they are preparing a pit
for fish or game to be wrapped in burdock leaves (they do not use any added seasoning). A fire is made in
the pit, and when the ground is hot enough they take away the ash and charcoal, place the carefully
wrapped morsel in the bottom, and cover with the surrounding sides, which have reached a very high
temperature. In a short time they have a delicacy that barbecuing cannot equal. As a kitchen preparation
the roots are roasted and used for coffee; the fresh root is used in soup instead of potatoes, in pancakes,
and is fried as cutlets. Cut very fine and boiled with apple cider vinegar and yellow dock with sour
cream, they make a tasty and nutritious jam. Externally: From the bygone days burdock oil, called
repeinoe maslo, has a reputation as a hair tonic to strengthen and encourage the growth of new hair. This
can occur if the hair follicles are just dormant and not completely destroyed. It usually takes six to eight
months for a noticeable change. Many conditions of eczema-type skin diseases are relieved after several
applications of burdock externally and taking it internally. Persistent black- (comedo) and whiteheads
(milia) are treated with a facial steam bath. Also as a poultice for boils.