Dandelion
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Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a perennial herb which is thought to be native to Europe and Asia, but has now spread to many other places. Considered by many to be a weed and therefore a nuisance, Dandelion is cultivated as an edible salad crop and as a medicinal herb. The leaves are high in vitamin A and C and contain more iron and calcium than spinach. As a medical remedy, Dandelion has been used for more than 2000 years both internally and externally. Its juice has diuretic and laxative properties and was used to treat rheumatism, gout, hemorrhoids, diabetes, eczema and other skin conditions and to prevent scurvy.
Dandelion Culinary Uses
Dandelion contains more vitamins and minerals than most vegetables. The young leaves and flowers can be eaten raw in salads, older leaves are usually cooked or boiled as they are quite bitter. Flowers are used to make Dandelion wine and Dandelion flower jam, or they are dipped in batter and fried,. Ground roasted Dandelion roots can be used as a coffee substitute. It is said to stimulate digestive functions if drunk before meals.
Dandelion Medicinal Uses
Dandelion has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times. The Celts introduced it to the Roman legions when they invaded the North, and Native Americans used it for a variety of ailments long before the Europeans first set foot on the American continent. Modern scientific research shows that the plant’s many constituents are indeed effective in curing a number of ailments. Traditionally, Dandelion was used as a tonic and blood purifier, for liver conditions such as hepatitis and jaundice, for joint pain, constipation, and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It is a powerful diuretic, and an infusion of the root is used to eliminate toxins from the body. The root is also used to treat bronchitis and other upper respiratory infections. The anti-inflammatory properties make it valuable for the treatment of arthritis and gout. As a tonic, Dandelion can strengthen the kidney, and applied externally, the fresh juice can fight bacteria and help wounds to heal more quickly. The latex contained in the plant sap is used to remove warts and corns. Also, a cosmetic skin lotion can be made out of Dandelion which is used to clear the skin and to fade freckles. Finally, in scientific studies, Dandelions have also shown to reduce obesity.
Dandelion Products, Dosages and Risks
There are a great variety of Dandelion products on the market, such as pills, tablets, capsules, teas, tonics, and tinctures. As strengths in commercial preparations may vary, it is advised to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation. A typical dosage for tea would be to drink one freshly made cup two times a day, in the morning and evening. To make tea, 2 oz. of the dried herb or root is boiled for 30 min. in 1 quart of water, and is then drunk in doses of half a cup every 3 hours for liver, kidney, gallbladder, and stomach problems. Side effects can vary from minor ones like stomach upsets to major ones like breathing difficulties and swelling and hives of the face and throat. Also cases of heartburn have been reported. For patients suffering from an obstruction of the bowels or the bile duct, it is dangerous to take Dandelion, and for those who have any type of gallbladder problem, it is advised to check with a doctor or any other health care professional before using Dandelion.
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