Burdock roots are considered purifying, cleansing, cooling and tonifying to the body. They have a special affinity for the skin and are used both internally and externally for improving skin health. Burdock is often combined with yellowdock root, cleavers or red clover to make a tea or skin wash. For tea: pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of burdock root. Cover and let steep for 3 to 5 minutes. For decoction, add one teaspoon of burdock root to one cup of water, bring to a boil and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. The flavor of the tea is considered pleasant and more palatable than other herbs with similar uses and therefore often the herb of choice for teens, children and picky adults.