Dandelion
Introduction
The common dandelion, enemy of well-kept lawns, is an exceptionally nutritious food. Its leaves and root contain substantial levels of vitamins A, C, D, and B complex as well as iron, magnesium, zinc, potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon. In almost every herbal healing tradition, the root of the dandelion has been used for the treatment of a variety of liver and gallbladder problems. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the roots of various species of dandelions are also used as "herbs that cool the blood." Dandelions are through to correct the physiological reactions triggered by intense emotions that cause eyestrain or red, swollen, and painful eyes. They are used in teas and poultices for abscesses and sores, especially on the breast. The promote lactation and clear painful urinary dysfunction.
Constituents
The nutrients mentioned in the Introduction, plus bitter taraxacins (eudesmanolides), sitosterol, stigmasterol, alpha- and beta-carotene, caffeic acid, mucilage, and an unusually high potassium content.
Parts Used
The whole root, dried, and cut.
Typical Preparations
Typically used as tea or tincture. Chopped dandelion root rather than dandelion root powder is most often used to make teas combining dandelion and other herbs. Dandelion root powder is used when diuretic effect is emphasized. Chopped dandelion root can be combined with myrrh to make a poultice for boils and abscesses, with honeysuckle flowers to make a tea to be drunk to treat boils and abscesses, with skullcap and/or chrysanthemum flowers to make a tea to be drunk to treat sore eyes, or with heal-all to treat hard phlegm in bronchitis. Can also be administered in capsule or extract form for convenience.
Summary
Dandelion root is a mild chloretic, that is, an agent for stimulating the
release of bile from the liver into the gallbladder. The herb is used to
support treatment of a variety of liver and gallbladder disorders, especially
the incomplete digestion of fats. The release of bile is laxative, and accelerates
the breakdown of various steroid hormones, causing an indirect, favorable
effect on eczema and other skin conditions.
Dandelion root also is one of the best herbal diuretics. It stimulates
urination but also replaces the potassium lost to the increased volume of
urine.
Precautions
Use with caution if you have gallstones.