A popular folk medicine herb, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has many uses. Dandelion leaves can be cooked and eaten like greens, or use them to make tea to relief water retention. Dandelion root is bitter. People roast dandelion root and use it as a coffee substitute. It has a tonic effect on the pancreas and spleen.
Common Name: Dandelion
Scientific Name: Taraxacum officinale
Parts used: leaf, root, flower
Functions:
🌿Leaf - alterative (gradually restore the proper function of the body and increase health and vitality), antioxidant, astringent, decongestion, immune stimulant, laxative, restorative.
🌲Root - diuretic, hepatic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antibacterial, antifungal
🌼Flower - anodyne (stops the pain), cardiotonic, emollient, hepatic, vulnerary Sap - anodyne (stops the pain), antifungal, discutient (dispersing agent that reduces swelling)
Benefits/Uses:
Nutritious plant that contains numerous vitamins such as B1, B2, folic acid, vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium, zinc etc..
Aids in purifying blood and filtering waste. Help clear the body of anger and fear that stores in the liver and kidneys. Good for pregnant women in preventing edema and hypertension.
Can bed use for anemia, arthritis, diabetes, congestive heart failure, high cholesterol, hypertension, insomnia, nervousness, obesity, rashes etc..
Often blends with other herbs that are nervines (Lemon Verbena) or adaptogens (American Ginseng).
Cautions:
Taking dandelion by mouth might cause allergic reactions, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or heartburn in some people.
Could have interactions with antibiotics and lithium. Could also affects how liver breaks down other medications.
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Reference:
Shealy, C. Norman M.D., Ph.D. "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies." 2017.
Reader's Digest. "Magic and Medicine of Plants." 1986.
Fetrow, Charles W. Pharm. D., Avila, Juan R. Pharm D. "The Complete Guide to Herbal Medicines." 2000.