Quick Take
A social media post claims that greater burdock root is 100 times more effective than chemotherapy. We fact checked this claim and found this to be false.
The Claim
A viral Facebook post claims that greater burdock root can destroy cancer cells and is 100 times more effective than chemotherapy.
Fact Check
Can greater burdock root kill cancer cells?
No, there is no solid scientific proof that burdock root can kill cancer cells in humans. It contains antioxidants like quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids, which may help protect cells from damage. Some lab studies suggest potential anti-cancer properties, but these findings are based on isolated cells, not human trials.
A 2023 study on rats found that arctiin, a compound in burdock root, reduced tumour size, slowed cancer growth, and increased survival time. It also helped lower inflammation and prevent cancer cells from spreading. Similarly, a 2019 study on mice showed that burdock root extract reduced inflammation, slowed tumour growth, and improved survival by regulating immune cell activity.
However, both studies were conducted on animals, not humans. There is no reliable evidence that burdock root can cure or kill cancer in real-world conditions.
This is why medical experts caution against relying on a single ingredient for cancer treatment. Dr P. Rammanohar, Research Director at Amrita School of Ayurveda, Kollam, explains that cancer is a complex group of diseases, each requiring specific treatments. He says, “Different types of cancer need different treatments, and chemotherapy is carefully developed to target specific cancers. No single drug can treat all cancers.”
Adding to this, Dr Pooja Khullar, Radiation Oncologist at Dharamshila Narayana Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, emphasises that there is no strong evidence to support burdock root as a cancer treatment. She explains, “Burdock root is often promoted as a natural remedy, but there is no strong evidence that it can replace proven cancer treatments. While some lab studies suggest potential benefits, these do not translate directly to humans. Relying on burdock root alone could delay effective treatment and make cancer harder to control. It’s always safest to follow treatments backed by solid scientific research.”
Is it 100 times more effective than chemotherapy?
No, this claim is entirely false. Chemotherapy is a well-researched and medically approved treatment for cancer. While it has side effects, it has been tested in rigorous clinical trials to prove its effectiveness in shrinking tumours and improving survival rates. There is no study comparing burdock root to chemotherapy, let alone proving it to be 100 times more effective.
Similarly, there are claims that marijuana is better than chemotherapy and can cure cancer. However this is false.
Can burdock root be used as a cancer treatment?
No, burdock root is not an approved cancer treatment. Some alternative medicine supporters suggest burdock root as a complementary therapy, meaning it can be used alongside standard treatments to support overall health. However, relying on burdock root alone instead of proven cancer treatments can be dangerous and may allow cancer to spread unchecked.
Experts stress the importance of sticking to scientifically backed treatments. Dr Rakesh Sharma, Senior Consultant and HOD Medical Oncology, SHALBY Sanar International Hospital, Gurugram, explains, “Chemotherapy is a well-researched and effective cancer treatment when given under expert supervision. While early drugs had toxic origins, modern chemotherapy has advanced significantly and remains a crucial, safe, and proven method to fight cancer.”
On a related note, another post claims that soursop can replace chemotherapy by targeting only cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. But this is false.
Are there any risks to using burdock root?
Yes, burdock root is generally safe in food or tea, but it carries some risks. It may interact with medications (like diabetes), trigger allergies, and act as a diuretic, increasing dehydration risk. Pregnant women, children, and those allergic to daisies should avoid it. Using it as a cancer treatment instead of medical care is dangerous. Only buy from trusted sources, as it resembles toxic belladonna. Supplements aren’t well-regulated, so it is important to follow medical advice.
THIP Media Take
This claim that greater burdock root is 100 times more effective than chemotherapy is false. There is no scientific evidence to support this claim. While it has some health benefits, it is not a proven cancer treatment. Relying on such misinformation can be harmful. Always consult a doctor for proper cancer treatment and medical advice.
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