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While all of us as children have blown on the dandelion puffs and watched as the parachutes of seeds took flight for far away destinations, we might not have realized we were looking at one of natures most powerful increased urinations. The common dandelion is indeed a powerful herb that can be used as a detoxifier and eliminator. The common name dandelion came from the French, "dent de lion" leaves, or teeth of the lion.
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Dandelion Historical Use
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The dandelion has been use for centuries for its many abilities, as a folk remedy for warts and liver spots. Italian people have gathered dandelion and cooked it as a delicious vegetable with garlic and olive oil for eons. With a taste close to Chicory, Dandelion roots have been roasted and made into a tasty coffee substitute. In Chinese a substance used in managing discofort, Pu gong yin, this most common herb, is a respected herbal a substance used in managing discofort that can remove toxic heat and detoxify this condition. Conditions that Chinese herbalists considered this herb could treat were breast abscess, lymph node enlargement and skin conditions including boils.
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Dandelion Remedy For
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- Gout
- Water retention
- Eczema
- Acne
- Boils
- High blood pressure
- Jaundice
- Insufficient bile
Dandelion can activate the eliminatory processes of the body and remove toxins; thus it can remove excess fluids, promote the bile flow, and resolve boils and skin conditions. The roots are said to be effective for constipation.
Contraindications
- acute stomach soreness or An eroded sore in the inner lining of digestive track (empirical)1,5,148 due to stomachic effect of stimulating gastric hyperacidity 4,5
- digestive weakness 5,148 due to possibly causing dyspepsia, flatulence, Discomfort, and diarrhea (empirical),5 though it has traditionally been used to treat dyspepsia with constipation (empirical)7
- gallstones unless consulting a physician (speculative) due to its cholagogue activity,4 though the fresh root has traditionally been used to treat gallstones (empirical)7
- acute gall bladder soreness150 with pus (empirical)4,6,24 due to its cholagogue effect 5
- intestinal obstruction (empirical 4,6,24,150 due to its laxative effect 5
- allergic hypersensitivity to other Asteraceae such as chamomile, yarrow, and/or arnica (empirical)6
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Dandelion Active Constituents
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Dandelion contains high amounts of Vitamin A, potassium, bioflavanoids, boron, magnesium, triterpenoids, phytoesterols and taraxacin. At high doses dandelion is said to match the strongest increased urination drugs, its advantage is that it replaces the potassium lost in the urine, being very high in potassium. The bitter principles reportedly stimulate bile flow. While its described ability to reduce blood pressure stems from its natural increased urination activity. Dandelion is also considered a mild laxative.
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Dandelion Typical Dosage
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If using fresh dandelion make a tea with 15 to 30 grams and use enough water to make three cups per day. When the dried leaf is used take 4 to 10 grams and make an infusion and drink 3 cups per day. In a 1:1 extract take 30 to 60 drops 3 to 4 times per day.
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Dandelion Side Effects
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Using the recommended dosages there should not be any side effects, however occasionally some report nausea, abdominal discomfort. The milky white latex from the stem and leaves can cause allergic reaction in a few people causing itching and urticaria. Some believe if taking with increased urination medication it can potentiate diuresis and lead to a loss of potassium.
So it is suggested to seek professional advice if taking blood pressure medication, increased urinations, corticosteroids or undergoing anesthesia.
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