Burdock is a robust biennial herbaceous plant that grows in temperate regions and is common in clearings. It is well known for its purple flowers surrounded by an involucre of thorny bracts that cling to clothing and hair.

Burdock has been used since ancient times for its detoxifying properties, which are concentrated in its root, an important source of inulin, a starch-like carbohydrate. It also contains polyenes and polyines, polyunsaturated compounds acting in synergy.

Burdock is traditionally used for its properties on the skin, which it helps to protect and soothe.