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 Herbal
Glossary | Medicinal Glossary
| Herbal Preparations
Cocklebur
Common Names Parts Usually UsedLeaves, root Description of Plant(s) and CultureCocklebur is a variable weedy annual plant that grows to 5 feet in
height. The leaves are oval to heart-shaped, somewhat lobed or toothed,
on long stalks. The green flowers are inconspicuous. The fruits are
oval, with crowded hooked prickles, often called burrs. Blooms September
to November. Where FoundFound in waste places. Medicinal PropertiesAntispasmodic, analgesic, alterative, antibacterial, antifungal,
diuretic, febrifuge, sedative Biochemical InformationXanthostrumarin, resin, fatty oil, alkaloids, organic acid, vitamin
C, ceryl alcohol Legends, Myths and StoriesThis weed is very obnoxious to contact; the seed pods tend to adhere to animal fur and human clothing. Often transplanted throughout an area by clinging to the fur of animals and dropping at distances to become wider spread and more obnoxious. It is a very valuable therapeutic medicinal used by the Chinese for rheumatic pains and aches as well as sinus blockage. Also used as a yellow dye. Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria L.) is
sometimes called cocklebur, but this herb belongs to the rose family
and is no relation to the true cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium L.)
UsesCocklebur was once used for rabies, fevers,
malaria, sinusitis,
allergic rhinitis with headaches,
chronic lumbago, leprosy, and pruritis (severe itching) of the skin.
Native Americans used the leaf tea for kidney
diseases, rheumatism,
arthritis, tuberculosis
(TB), colds, as a blood
tonic, and diarrhea. The
Chinese had similar uses. Nutrient ContentVitamin C WarningMost cocklebur species are toxic to livestock and are usually avoided
by them. Seeds contain toxins, but the seed oil has served as lamp
fuel.
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Eastern/Central Medicinal Plants
