Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), also known as lion's tooth, is a perennial found in Europe, North America and Asia. Many people consider dandelion as an annoying weed that grows in many back yards. However, herbalists consider dandelion flower and root as a valuable herb that can be used as a food and medicine that is beneficial for treating many different conditions. Dandelion is a rich source of vitamins A, B complex, C, and D, as well as minerals such as iron, potassium, and zinc. Dandelion leaves are used to add flavor to salads, sandwiches, and teas. The roots are used in some coffee substitutes, and the flowers are used to make wines.
Dandelion is found growing in pastures, lawns, waste ground, sand, rocks, even cracks in concrete. Dandelions can grow to be a foot tall and have bright yellow flowers and shiny hairless leaves. Dandelion flowers open with the sun in the morning and close in the evening or during gloomy weather. The dandelion's root is dark brown, fleshy and filled with an odorous milky white substance. Herbalists use the leaves, roots and flowers medicinally, and each part provides different benefits. Dandelion leaves purportedly have a diuretic affect; the roots act as an appetite stimulant and help improve gastrointestinal health. Dandelion flower has antioxidant properties.
Traditionally, dandelion roots and leaves were used to treat liver problems, and as a diuretic, to increase the amount of urine the body produces in order to get rid of excess fluid. It has been used for many conditions where a diuretic might help, such as liver problems and high blood pressure. Native Americans also boiled dandelion in water and took it to treat kidney disease, swelling, skin problems, heartburn, and upset stomach. In traditional Chinese medicine, dandelion has been used to treat stomach problems, appendicitis, and breast problems, such as inflammation or lack of milk flow. In Europe, it was used in remedies for fever, boils, warts, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea.
Today, the roots are mainly used as an appetite stimulant, and for liver and gallbladder problems. Dandelion leaves are used as a diuretic to help the body get rid of excess fluid.
Fresh or dried dandelion herb is used for loss of appetite and to improve upset stomach. The root of the dandelion plant may act as a mild laxative and has been used to improve digestion. Some people use dandelion to treat infection, especially viral infections, and cancer. There is some very preliminary research that suggests dandelion may help improve liver and gallbladder function.
Dandelion is also used for intestinal gas, gallstones, joint pain, muscle aches, eczema, inflammation, and bruises, and to increase urine production and as a laxative to increase bowel movements. It is also used as skin toner, blood tonic, and digestive tonic.
Some preliminary animal studies also suggest that dandelion may help normalize blood sugar levels and lower total cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL, "good," cholesterol in diabetic mice. Human studies are needed to see if dandelion would work in people.
Dandelion is especially important in promoting the formation of bile and removing excess water from the body in edematous conditions resulting from the liver problems. It is thought to be especially useful in cases of enlargement of the liver and for jaundice, even in little children.
Dandelion tea can help cure even the serious case of hepatitis.
Dandelion tea or juice improves the functioning of the pancreas, kidneys, spleen, and stomach.
Dandelion tea and juice can help lower serum cholesterol and uric acid levels in the body by as much as half.
Dandelion is a good blood cleanser and it helps prevent age spots and other skin disorders.
Lukewarm dandelion tea is useful for dyspepsia.
Dandelion is used as a mild laxative in habitual constipation.
Dandelion is good for fever.
Dandelion is good for stress and insomnia.
The root tea of dandelion combined with a good diet and exercise can eliminate diabetes.
Dandelion relieves menopausal symptoms.
Dandelion is a superior source of organic magnesium. Magnesium alkalinizes the bloodstream and at the same time contributes to bone density and health. It is vital for strong teeth and preventing tooth decay and pyorrhea.
Dandelion has a good effect in increasing the appetite and promoting digestion.
Dandelion is useful in the treatment of warts. The milk from the cut end of dandelion should be put on the wart twice or thrice a day.
Dandelion's rich iron content makes it useful for treating anemia.
Dandelion root is a rich source of nutritive salts which is useful in a variety of ailments.
External Uses
The fresh juice of Dandelion is applied externally to fight bacteria and help heal wounds. The plant has an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of Staphococcus aureus, pneumococci, meningococci, Bacillus dysenteriae, B. typhi, C. diphtheriae, proteus. The latex contained in the plant sap can be used to remove corns and warts.
Internal Uses
Dandelion is also used for the treatment of the gall bladder, kidney and urinary disorders, gallstones, jaundice, cirrhosis, hypoglycemia, dyspepsia with constipation, edema associated with high blood pressure and heart weakness, chronic joint and skin complaints, gout, eczema and acne. As a tonic, Dandelion strengthens the kidneys. An infusion of the root encourages the steady elimination of toxins from the body. Dandelion is a powerful diuretic but does not deplete the body of potassium.
Research is revealing that the many constituents of Dandelion including Taraxacin, Taraxacoside, Inulin, Phenolic acids, Sesquiterpene lactones, Triterpenes, Coumarins, Catortenoids and Minerals, mainly Potassium and calcium, are very valuable in curing a number of disorders and illnesses. Dandelion is traditionally used as a tonic and blood purifier, for constipation, inflammatory skin conditions, joint pain, eczema and liver dysfunction, including liver conditions such as hepatitis and jaundice.
Parts Used
Dandelion leaves act as a diuretic, increasing the amount of urine the body produces. The leaves are used to stimulate the appetite and help digestion. Dandelion flower has antioxidant properties. Dandelion may also help improve the immune system.
Herbalists use dandelion root to detoxify the liver and gallbladder, and dandelion leaves to support kidney function.
Culinary Uses
Dandelion leaves is used in salad, the leaves should be torn to pieces rather than cut to keep their pungent flavor. The leaves can also be cooked in a little boiling water or in combination with spinach and cooked in the same way.
The dried leaves are used for tea and as an ingredient in diet drinks.
Dandelion coffee is made from its dried, roasted and ground roots. It is a natural beverage, without the harmful effects of the conventional tea and coffee.
Other Uses
When placed in a paper bag with unripe fruit, the flowers and leaves of Dandelion release ethylene gas ripening the fruit quickly. A liquid plant food is made from the root and leaves. A dark red dye is obtained from Dandelion root. A cosmetic skin lotion made from the appendages at the base of the leaf blades distilled in water, is used to clear the skin and is effective in fading freckles. The juice of the Dandelion stalk is applied to remove warts. In foods, dandelion is used as salad greens, and in soups, wine, and teas. The roasted root is used as a coffee substitute.
Dandelion is rich source of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, manganese, copper, phosphorous, sodium iron and silicon. The flower of the dandelion contains more vitamin A (helps fight cancer) than carrots. Dandelion is also rich in fiber, thiamine and riboflavin, and are a good source of protein. Other nutrients found in dandelion include the B-complex vitamins (helps reduce stress) as well as vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin K, and calcium. Dandelion is also rich in micronutrients such as copper, cobalt, zinc, boron, and molybdenum. Dandelion greens contains nearly as much iron as spinach.
Dandelion herbs and roots are available fresh or dried in a variety of forms, including tinctures, liquid extract, herbal teas, tablets, and capsules. Dandelion can be found alone or combined with other dietary supplements. Dandelion root is most often taken in the capsule form and tea form.
Pediatric
Ask your doctor before giving dandelion supplements to a child, so your doctor can help you determine the dose. Eating dandelion in food is safe for a child.
Adult
Ask your doctor to help you determine the right dose for you. Some traditional doses include:
Dried leaf infusion: 1 - 2 teaspoonfuls, 3 times daily. Pour hot water onto dried leaf and steep for 5 - 10 minutes. Drink as directed.
Dried root decoction: 1/2 - 2 teaspoonfuls, 3 times daily. Place root into boiling water for 5 - 10 minutes. Strain and drink as directed.
Leaf tincture (1:5) in 30% alcohol: 30 - 60 drops, 3 times daily
Standardized powdered extract (4:1) leaf: 500 mg, 1 - 3 times daily
Standardized powdered extract (4:1) root: 500 mg, 1 - 3 times daily
Root tincture (1:2) fresh root in 45% alcohol: 30 - 60 drops, 3 times daily
Dandelion is safe for most people when used in the amounts commonly found in food. It is likely safe when used in medicinal amounts (larger amounts than those found in food). Some people may develop an allergic reaction from touching dandelion, and others may develop mouth sores.
In some people, dandelion can cause increased stomach acid and heartburn. It may also irritate the skin if applied topically.
Dandelion should not be used if you have bile duct obstruction, acute gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), or intestinal blockage.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Some women believe dandelion has great nutritional value during pregnancy. If you plan to use dandelion root in food, it's generally considered safe in those small amounts. The American Pregnancy Association says the use of any part of the dandelion in medicinal doses for pregnant women is lacking sufficient research to determine its safety and efficacy. The FDA has not evaluated dandelion for safety, effectiveness or purity. You should never take any herbal supplement without discussing it with your physician first, especially when pregnant.
Ragweed allergy: Dandelion can cause allergic reactions when taken by mouth or applied to the skin of sensitive people. People who are allergic to ragweed and related plants (daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds, chamomile, yarrow, daisies, or iodine) are likely to be allergic to dandelion. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking dandelion.
Kidney problems: People with kidney problems, gallbladder problems, or gallstones should ask their health care provider before eating dandelion.
Dandelion leaf may act as a diuretic, which can speed up how fast drugs leave your system. If you are taking prescription medications, ask your health care provider before taking dandelion leaf. If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use dandelion without first talking to your health care provider:
Antacids -- Dandelion may increase the amount of stomach acid, so antacids may not work as well.
Blood-thinning medications -- Theoretically, dandelion may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you already take blood-thinners such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), or clopidogrel (Plavix).
Diuretics (water pills) -- Dandelion may act as a diuretic, increasing the amount of urine to help your body get rid of excess fluid. If you also take prescription diuretics or other herbs that act as diuretic, you could be at risk for an electrolyte imbalance.
Lithium -- Animal studies suggest that dandelion may make the side effects of lithium worse. Lithium is used to treat bipolar disorder.
Ciproflaxin (Cipro) -- One species of dandelion, Taraxacum mongolicum, also called Chinese dandelion, may lower the absorption of the antibiotic ciproflaxin from the digestive tract. Researchers don't know whether the common dandelion would do the same thing.
Medications for diabetes -- Theoretically, dandelion may lower blood sugar levels. If you take medications for diabetes, taking dandelion may increase the risk of low blood sugar.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
Here are some reviews collected from the web highlighting some of the health benefits of taking Dandelion supplements:
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5.0 out of 5 stars Dandelion Root a good thing, November 28, 2011
By
Joee
I take Dandelion Root for its nutritional properties, as well as cleansing the blood and the liver. Although there is no proof, it is believed to help protect a woman against breast cancer.
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10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Product, September 28, 2009
By
F. Little
I love dandelion supplements and this is a great one. It's a great brand and it really helps. I have had a lot of issues with digestion, but this really helps me out. It helps me break down vegetables and I feel like it helps cleanse toxins out of my body. I feel better when I take this product, my skin is clearer and I just feel healthier.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Cancer treatment??, January 13, 2011
By
Voltaire (Lake Worth,Texas,USA)
My wife was diagnosed with cancer. Imagine my surprise to read of some data indicating dandelion tea has some good effects for cancer patients. I can remember as a child my grandmother making dandelion tea, but back then, this and chamomile was all we had. If you could not find it growing outside, you were not going to have it. The taste is fine but I am leaving most of it to her to drink.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars The Best thing I have ever used, October 1, 2011
By
Khan
I can only say that Dandelion root tea is the best stuff gifted by the nature that I have ever used. I drink its tea every night before I go to bed in a glass of water. I first heat up the water up to the boiling point and and I put a tablespoon of Dendelion root along with 1/2 teaspoon of organic tumeric powder, I then turn the stove to warm status, and beleive me I can't get up in the morning due to a deep sound sleep. I also found that the heaviness I was feeling in the right abdominal section right by the liver is completely disappeared, it gave me more energy and also brought some gloming complexion on my face color, I don't know if it is the result of my liver detoxification or something else but I can certainly acknowledge that it works wonderful especially in case of liver... You can also add Milk Thistle root as I heard from one of my friend that Dandelion when it is taken with Burdock root and Milk thistle can respond to any liver problem. Hope this will help someone who might consider it for any liver ailments. Thanks
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Dandelions have been given a very bad rap., August 14, 2011
By
John Cukras (Long Beach, CA)
Great quality and great price.
Dandelions are no longer a pest, they are a friend.
I've been drinking dandelion tea for quite some time,
and decided start taking the root after reading up on it some.
Good for your liver, helps detox your body, and helps in the
creation of bile. Not to mention it's about as natural as natural
gets, they are everywhere!
My pet tortoise loves dandelions and now I do too!
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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Great for gallbladder, July 29, 2008
By
From Texas
I was diagnosed with gallstones back in the 70's. By using dandelion root in conjunction with other herbs and supplements good for the gallbladder and liver, I have been able to avoid another gallbladder attack for 28 years. Works for me! BTW....I sometimes get off the dandelion root for months at a time, but I can always tell when I need to get back on it because of little twinges in the gallbladder area.
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6 of 6 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful!!!, March 15, 2010
By
From Florida
I have been having what I believe to be gallbladder issues (although my tests keep coming back negative but I have more scheduled). After taking this along with artichoke and milk thistle, most of my symptoms are GONE. Literally 2 days after taking these, my intense fatigue, headaches, stomach nausea, upper middle abdominal pain, and cramping had disappeared. The excruciating pain in the middle of my back was cut in half and I can actually get up from a chair or just walk down the hall without tears in my eyes. The bad gas I was having is now so rare I don't even notice it. I don't get why the docs don't think it's my gallbladder when this stuff has all but made my symtpoms go away and it's all geared to help your gallbladder/liver/bile production. If you even suspect you have any of these issues, take all 3 supplements!!
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