Burdock root powder

INCI: Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Powder

Burdock root powder is obtained from dried and finely milled roots of the plant Arctium lappa, A. minus, A. tomentosum or related species. The powder is a natural plant-based raw material, suitable for use in cosmetic products for skin and hair care.

Burdock root naturally contains B-complex vitamins and vitamin E as well as trace minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, silicon and zinc. In cosmetics it is valued primarily for its soothing effect on the skin and scalp.

Use in cosmetics

• hair and scalp care products

• shampoos and hair masks

• creams, lotions and tonics

• rinse-off masks and skin wraps

Burdock is often used in products:

• for regulating sebum production

• for soothing a sensitive and irritated scalp

• for caring for impure, problematic and combination skin

• for caring for dry, flaky and sensitive skin

Use in shampoos

Liquid shampoos

• recommended concentration: 0.5–2%

• we recommend pre-extraction (water or glycerin extract)

• strain the extract to prevent particles in the finished product

Solid shampoos (shampoo bar)

• recommended concentration: 1–3%

• the powder can be added directly to the mass

• also acts as a gentle scalp scrub

• may slightly tint the product

Practical tip:
For a smoother application and to avoid sediment, we recommend preparing a water or glycerin macerate, which is strained and used as part of the water phase.

Warning

• The powder may stain fabric

• For external use only

Additional information

• Appearance: yellow to brownish powder

• Scent: mild, slightly sweet

• Solubility: in water and alcohol

HOW TO USE burdock root powder

Face mask

• 1 teaspoon burdock root powder

• 1–2 teaspoons green or white clay

• hydrolat or water as needed

Mix into a smooth paste, apply to the face (avoiding the eyes), leave on for 5–10 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
Suitable for impure, combination and sensitive skin.

Infusion for skin or hair

• 1 teaspoon powder

• 100 ml hot water

Pour hot water over it, cover and leave to steep for 10–15 minutes, then strain.
Use as:

• an addition to tonics and lotions

• a scalp rinse

• the water phase in homemade cosmetic products

RECIPE: BURDOCK DECOCTION (INFUSION) FOR THE SCALP

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon burdock root powder

• 250 ml water

Method:

Add the powder to cold water, bring to the boil and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and leave to stand for a further 10 minutes, then strain.

Use:

• as a scalp rinse after washing

• as the water phase for:

  • scalp tonics

  • water-based lotions

  • hair masks

Helps with soothing the scalp, regulating sebum and nourishing hair roots.

Warnings:

• for external use only

• use the freshly prepared liquid within 24–48 hours (refrigerator)

• a patch test on the skin is recommended before first use

MINI FAQ – MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Is burdock root powder soluble?

Partially. It is soluble in water and alcohol, but also contains insoluble plant particles.
For this reason it is often strained when used in liquid products.

2. Can I add the powder directly to shampoo?

• in solid shampoos: yes

• in liquid shampoos: we recommend a water or glycerin extract to avoid particles

3. Is it suitable for a sensitive scalp?

Yes, however we recommend:

• lower concentrations

• a prior patch test

• use in rinse-off products

4. Does burdock stain hair?

No. However it may slightly tint the product or light-coloured fabric. It does not leave colour on the hair.

5. How often can I use products containing burdock?

• shampoos: at every wash

• masks and wraps: 1–2× weekly