Dandelion

The medicinal herb Dandelion as an alternative herbal remedy for liver diseases, kidney diseases – Dandelion greens are edible and a rich source of vitamin A.Common Names–lion’s tooth, blowball

Latin Name–Taraxacum officinale Picture of Dandelion

What Dandelion Is Used For

• Dandelion has been used in many traditional medical systems, including Native American and traditional Arabic medicine.
• Historically, dandelion was most commonly used to treat liver diseases, kidney diseases, and spleen problems. Less commonly, dandelion was used to treat digestive problems and skin conditions.
• Today, dandelion is used by some as a liver or kidney “tonic,” as a diuretic, and for minor digestive problems.
• Herbal remedy for liver and kidney diseases.

How Dandelion Is Used

• Both the leaf and root are used for herbal remedies. The leaf helps with water weight gain. Women are especially prone to bloating due to water retention. Another benefit of dandelion is it doesn’t deplete the body of potassium like other diuretics do. The root is an excellent liver detoxifier. A clogged up liver is one of the main causes of weight gain, poor elimination, headaches, and a long list of other problems.
• The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, are used fresh or dried in teas, capsules, or extracts. Dandelion leaves are used in salads or as a cooked green, and the flowers are used to make wine.

What the Science Says about Dandelion

There is no compelling scientific evidence for using dandelion as a treatment for any medical condition

Side Effects and Cautions about Dandelion

Dandelion use is generally considered safe. However, there have been rare reports of upset stomach and diarrhea, and some people are allergic to the plant. People with an inflamed or infected gallbladder, or blocked bile ducts, should avoid using dandelion. It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including dandelion. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.

Herbal Remedy Products with Dandelion as part of the ingredients

• What Natural Moves™ says about dandelion: Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis) contains bitter principles that have a tonic effect on the liver and digestive system by supporting the flow of bile. It is also a source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, D, C, various B vitamins, iron, lecithin, silicon, potassium, magnesium, zinc and manganese. It is of benefit in maintaining healthy fluid levels in the body. Dandelion is also considered to be an excellent cleansing tonic for the liver and recent studies suggest that it is especially beneficial with regards to digestive health. (Chakurski I, Matev M, Koichev A, Angelova I, Stefanov G. “Treatment of chronic colitis with an herbal combination of Taraxacum officinale, Hipericum perforatum, Melissa officinaliss, Calendula officinalis and Foeniculum vulgare.” Vutr Boles. 1981;20(6):51-4. Bulgarian. PMID: 7336706).

Dandelions by Jude C Williams, M.H.

Dandelions are tap-rooted perennial plants. They will grow almost anywhere. They are also known as weeds. Dandelions are very difficult to get rid off. Dandelions are now common in all temperate regions. The flower of the dandelion matures into a globe of fine white filaments that are usually distributed by wind, carrying away the seed-containing achenes (akenes). The mature flower of the dandelion which is in the shape of a globe is also called the “clock”. While many people think of the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) as a pesky weed, herbalists consider it a valuable herb with many culinary and medicinal uses. Dandelion is a rich source of vitamins A, B complex, C, and D, as well as minerals such as iron, potassium, and zinc. Its leaves are often used to add flavor to salads, sandwiches, and teas. The roots can be found in some coffee substitutes, and the flowers are used to make certain wines.

In traditional medicine, dandelion roots and leaves were used to treat liver problems. Native Americans also used dandelion decoctions (liquid made by boiling down the herb in water) to treat kidney disease, swelling, skin problems, heartburn, and stomach upset. Chinese medicinal practitioners traditionally used dandelion to treat digestive disorders, appendicitis, and breast problems (such as inflammation or lack of milk flow). In Europe, herbalists incorporated it into remedies for fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea.

Today, dandelion roots are mainly used as an appetite stimulant, digestive aid, and for liver and gallbladder function. Dandelion leaves are used as a diuretic to stimulate the excretion of urine.

Dandelion Tonic: In the early spring when dandelion flowers and plentiful, you can make dandelion tonic. Pour 1 pint of boiling water over an (1) ounce of dandelion flowers. Let steep covered for ten (10) minutes. Strain and sweeten. Drink several glasses a day for several days, or as many days you can before the flowers are gone.

Source: Jude C Williams, M.H.