What are the functions and benefits of Arctii Fructus (burdock fruit)?

Dec 31, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

The effects and functions of Arctii Fructus (Burdock Seed) generally include clearing the liver and improving vision, dispersing nodules and reducing swelling, promoting diuresis and removing dampness, moistening the intestines to relieve constipation, and strengthening the spleen to stimulate appetite. Burdock seed is cold in nature, bitter and pungent in taste, and has effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, effectively removing internal heat accumulation and combating various heat-toxin-related conditions. The active components in burdock seed can promote blood circulation, accelerate metabolism, and help alleviate discomfort through dispersing nodules and reducing swelling.

Generally, the effects and functions of Arctii Fructus (Burdock Seed) include clearing the liver and improving vision, dispersing nodules and reducing swelling, promoting diuresis and eliminating dampness, moistening the intestines and relieving constipation, and strengthening the spleen and stimulating the appetite. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Clearing the Liver and Improving Vision

Arctii Fructus enters the liver and lung meridians. Its components are beneficial to the liver, can dispel wind-heat, alleviate red, swollen, and painful eyes caused by upward disturbance of wind-heat, improve eye discomfort, achieve the effect of clearing the liver and improving vision, and help maintain normal visual function.

2. Dispersing Nodules and Reducing Swelling

Arctii Fructus has the ability to detoxify and disperse nodules. It can help dissipate accumulations caused by heat toxicity, alleviate inflammatory reactions, and promote the resolution of swellings and nodules. It is commonly used in treating such heat-toxin-related conditions as abscesses, carbuncles, sores, and sore throat.

3. Promoting Diuresis and Eliminating Dampness

Arctii Fructus can promote bodily fluid metabolism, increase urine output, assist in expelling excess water from the body, reduce accumulation of dampness, and thereby alleviate symptoms of excessive dampness such as edema.

4. Moistening the Intestines and Relieving Constipation

Arctii Fructus contains certain oily components that can lubricate the intestines. At the same time, it can promote intestinal peristalsis, aid in the elimination of feces, and effectively improve symptoms of constipation caused by intestinal dryness.

5. Strengthening the Spleen and Stimulating the Appetite

Arctii Fructus has a fresh aroma; moderate consumption can stimulate the appetite, regulate spleen and stomach functions, assist in digestion and absorption, and improve poor appetite caused by spleen and stomach weakness, thereby strengthening the spleen and stimulating the appetite.

It is recommended to use Arctii Fructus under the guidance of a physician; self-administration is not advised. During treatment, a light and easily digestible diet is recommended to achieve better therapeutic effects.

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What are the functions and benefits of Arctii Fructus (burdock seed)?

Under normal circumstances, the main functions and effects of Arctii Fructus (niubangzi) include dispersing wind-heat, promoting lung function and relieving sore throat, detoxifying and promoting eruption of rashes, moistening the intestines and relieving constipation, as well as reducing swelling and dissipating nodules. Arctii Fructus is commonly administered by decoction according to the prescribed dosage under medical supervision. Due to its cold nature, it should be used cautiously in individuals with deficiency-cold in the spleen and stomach or those prone to diarrhea, to avoid aggravating gastrointestinal discomfort. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children should consult a healthcare professional before using Arctii Fructus.