Niu Bang Zi
Arctium 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
โฏ TCM Properties
Disperses Wind-Heat and benefits the throat; Relieves toxicity and vents rashes; Moistens the Intestines
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.
Cultural & Historical Context
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.
Chemistry & External Identifiers
Important Disclaimer
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.