Herb Profile: Dandelion

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelions are considered a weed by many... but did you know Dandelion is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals? The leaves have a very high content of vitamin A as well as moderate amounts of vitamin D, vitamin C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, zinc, and manganese.

The leaves are a rich source of potassium, which is interesting since the leaves are used for their diuretic action. This may make dandelion the only naturally occurring potassium-sparing diuretic, although its diuretic action is likely different from that of pharmaceuticals. At high doses, the leaves have been shown to possess diuretic effects comparable to the prescription diuretic frusemide (Lasix).

The bitter compounds in the leaves and root help stimulate digestion and are mild laxatives. These bitter principles also increase bile production in the gallbladder and bile flow from the liver. This makes them a particularly useful tonic for persons with sluggish liver function due to alcohol abuse or poor diet. The increase in bile flow will help improve fat (including cholesterol) metabolism in the body.

Parts Used: Leaves and root

Properties: Hepatic, aperient, diuretic, depurative, tonic, stomachic.

Uses: Dandelion is commonly used as a food. The leaves are used in salads and teas, while the roots are often used as a coffee substitute.

Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for hundreds of years to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some countries, dandelion is considered a blood purifier and is used for ailments such as eczema and cancer.

Dandelion has also been used historically to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver, including hepatitis.

Preparations: As a general liver/gallbladder tonic and to stimulate digestion, 3-5 grams of the dried root or 5-10 ml of a tincture made from the root can be used three times per day Some experts recommend the alcohol-based tincture because the bitter principles are more soluble in alcohol.

For chronic rheumatism, gout, stiff joints:
Infusion: Steep 2 tsp. Plant or root in 1-cup boiling water. Take 1/2 to 1 cup a day, lukewarm or cold.

Safety: No health hazards or side effects are known in conjunction with the proper administration of therapeutic dosages.

Dandelion leaf and root should be used with caution by persons with gallstones. If there is an obstruction of the bile ducts, then dandelion should be avoided altogether.In cases of stomach ulcer or gastritis, dandelion should be used cautiously, as it may cause overproduction of stomach acid.

Those experiencing fluid or water retention should consult a nutritionally oriented doctor before taking dandelion leaves. People taking the leaves should be sure that their doctors monitor potassium levels.

The milky latex in the stem and leaves of fresh dandelion may cause an allergic rash in some individuals. Possible sensitization reactions.

Resources: PDR for Herbal Medicines, Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses, Wikipedia.org.

***Disclaimer: Information is intended for reference purposes only. No medical advice is intended or given. Always consult your family Physician or a qualified Holistic Health Practitioner before using any herbs or herbal therapies. Information about herbal therapies and other dietary supplements is regulated or evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and therefore information should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.