Introduced into European medicine by the Arabs who were writing about it as early as the 10 th century.

Dandelion contains much that is beneficial to our bodies: bitter compounds, choline, inulin, large quantities of minerals such as calcium, sodium, silicic acid, sulfur and, in the fresh leaves, a high content of potassium. The bitter compounds stimulate the appetite and promote digestion. Choline affects the gallbladder and the intestines, often stimulating the mucous membranes of the large intestine in a laxative effect. It also has a relationship to the liver’s lipid metabolism. Our daily requirement of choline is 2-3 grams and a lack of it increases fatty degeneration of the liver. Dandelion can promote bile production in the liver and its secretion from the liver.

Dandelion root is a "blood purifier" that helps both the kidneys and the liver to improve elimination. It helps clear up many eczemalike skin problems because of this. The root has also been successfully used to treat liver diseases such as jaundice and cirrhosis along with dyspepsia and gallbladder problems. Its use as a diuretic is favorable because it replaces the potassium that most diuretics remove. It's the herb of choice for treating rheumatism, gout and heart disease as well as regulating hormonal imbalances. Fresh latex removes warts if applied several times daily. The Chinese have prescribed it since ancient times to treat colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, hepatitis, boils, ulcers, obesity, dental problems, itching, and internal injuries. A poultice of chopped dandelion was also used to treat breast cancer.

Traditional Ayurvedic physicians used the herb in a similar manner. Recent research shows a wide number of possibilities using dandelion. It's diuretic property can make it useful in relieving the bloated feeling of PMS and in help with weight loss. One study shows dandelion inhibits the growth of the fungus responsible for vaginal yeast infections. It stimulates bile production and prevents gallstones. There is a German preparation Chol-Grandelat (a combination of dandelion, milk thistle and rhubarb) prescribed for gallbladder disease.

Applications:

For a leaf infusion, use 1/2 oz of freshly dried leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day. A less effective diuretic than the juice, the infusion makes a cleansing remedy for toxic conditions including gout and eczema. Also use as a gentle liver and digestive stimulant. For a root decoction, gently boil 2 to 3 teaspoons of dried root per cup of water for 15 minutes. Cool. Drink up to 3 cups a day. Fresh root is best for toxic conditions such as gout, eczema, or acne. Also prescribed as a liver stimulant in liver disorders and related constipation. In a tincture, take 1-2 teaspoons up to 3 times a day. Use for the same conditions as the tincture.

To prevent vaginal yeast infections add a couple of handfuls of dried leaves and flowers to the bathwater (not directly….use an infusion). Do not give to children under age 2.

Liver Tea

1 tsp each dandelion root, milk thistle seeds and roasted chicory root

½ tsp each sarsaparilla root, licorice root and

ginger rhizome

1 quart water

Combine ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for a couple of minutes. Turn down heat and let steep for about 15 minutes. Strain and drink at least a cup a day

Gallbladder Formula

1 tsp each dandelion root, Oregon grape root and marshmallow root

1 quart water

½ tsp each chamomile flowers and nettle leaves

Combine roots and water and simmer for about 5 minutes. Turn off heat, add remaining herbs and steep for about 20 minutes. Strain herbs. Drink at least 1 cup daily. This formula can

also be used to make a tincture or pills.

Actions:

Leaves are diuretic, liver and digestive tonic; roots are liver tonic, promotes bile flow, diuretic, mildly laxative, antirheumatic

Toxicity:

Fresh latex in the root and especially the stem can cause skin irritations.