Acne.org Products
Female, age 25.
So this is the second time Ive been on Burdock, and the second time Ive been clear. I have tried EVERY natural product, vitamin, digestive remedy, face regime under the sun for female hormonal acne. I have researched the topic to death but nothing has worked. Im determined not to go on birth control because it simply masks the problem. Ive been eating low glycemic index/high protein, low/no dairy strictly for 4 years now because I thought insulin and/or dairy was to blame. I exercise daily, eat 100% well, have normal BMI, yet I have been having cystic breakouts and severe scarring since I was 17. Years ago I cut out all toxic face products and keep it very simple and natural. Im am planning to take Burdock permanently now. I only stopped taking it last time because it ran out and I was clear, but the acne slowly returned again.
NOTHING clears my daily cysts except for Burdock root.My skin is completely smooth and the oil slick it once was, is no longer. Dont get me wrong, I am thrilled. I would just like to know WHY it clears my skin completely (within 3 weeks of taking min dose). If I know why it helps, then I can target that area in my diet and other ways. Is it possible I dont even have a hormonal disorder (no other symptoms except pms moods)? Could I have liver problems (eg liver cant flush estrogen?)? Has anyone else become completely clear on Burdock root?
You'll get more responses if you post this in the diet & holistic forum.
Burdock purifies the blood, so if your acne is caused by bacteria (e.g. in the gut), then that might be why it's clearing you. You should look up the longterm safety of burdock, but I think it's relatively safe provided that you take a short break every few months or so.
Very interesting. Can you post the brand you use?
I just get the Now Foods Burdock Root, 430 mg (100 Capsules) from Iherb. I only need to take 1 cap per day for a few weeks and I have results. Theres not a lot of research or science about Burdock, just websites saying it detoxifies blood etc.
This is what medMD says about burdock root's side effects. Use it with caution and don't take more than you need.
Burdock is applied to the skin for dry skin (ichthyosis), acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
Burdock has been associated with poisonings because some products have been contaminated with root of belladonna or deadly nightshade. These herbs contain a poisonous chemical called atropine.
How does it work?
Burdock contains chemicals that might have activity against bacteria and inflammation.
Burdock is safely used as a food in Asia. There's not enough information to know if burdock is safe when taken in medicinal doses.
Burdock may cause an allergic reaction in people sensitive to certain flowers and herbs. When applied to the skin, it can cause a rash.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of burdock during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Allergy to ragweed and related plants: Burdock may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcareprovider before taking burdock.
Surgery: Burdock might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Stop taking it at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
I have used burdock in tea form. It is also great to get rid of excess water. 
I use it when my legs/ankles are puffy! I've also used it to help with my skin, but never noticed it directly clearing me. I have used Rooibos tea and that helps clear me up (it has nutrients in it and also seems to help control my oil production).