February 7, 2011
Taraxacum officinale – a member of the Sunflower Family
Of course we all know that Dandelion’s are weeds that pop up in our lawns quite frequently and people go to great lengths to remove them but unbeknownst to most is the fact that this is an amazing herb with great medicinal value. An effective health remedy right in our own backyard!
Recently I have noticed that more of my clients have been testing for and needing this herb to help clear liver congestion. We unfortunately live in a toxic world and our bodies are paying the price. The good news is that we have herbs to help us out and Dandelion works wonderfully for this.
A European folk remedy since the 15th century, the entire plant was used with wine made from the flowers, salads from the young leaves and the leaves & root used as medicine. It has been said that the dandelion never grows where there are no people, so it is a very sociable plant!
Some of the many ways the dandelion can aid the body:
Liver – A great herb for detoxification, the root is particularly effective for treating build up of toxins in the liver by helping to remove waste products and for aiding a sluggish or congested liver. A general tonic, it may help reduce side effects of medication and as it can help improve bile flow & reduce inflammation, it may be useful for hepatitis and cirrhosis.
Kidneys & Urinary Problems - The leaves are also a tonic for the kidneys, as a diuretic to help stimulate urine flow, improving general kidney function. They also stimulate toxin removal, improving health and assisting with skin problems. The leaves are high in vitamin A and potassium and are useful for water retention, kidney stones, edema, lymphatic swellings and bladder infection. If you have problems with fluid or water retention please consult a natural health practitioner before taking dandelion leaves.
Gallbladder – Both the root and leaf are used as a tonic for the gallbladder & spleen and are often used to prevent gallstones. The leaf can dissolve existing gallstones, but again this should be used with the support of your practitioner. If there is a bile duct obstruction, it should not be used at all.
Digestion – Dandelion Root has an excellent effect on the digestive system. It is stimulating and strengthening and is used as a mild laxative for constipation and also for general poor digestion. It helps to cleanse the digestive tract gently from the effects of meat, excessive fats, fried foods, drugs, coffee, and medication. The leaves help to increase production of saliva, promoting digestive enzyme & stomach acid production. The roots may help stimulate appetite and aid digestion. With ulcers or gastritis, it should be used with care, due to the overproduction of acids.
Blood Cleanser - A well-known blood cleanser & detoxifier, dandelion can help with ailments such as rashes, psoriasis, eczema, inflammation, boils, infection, abscesses, chicken pox, measles, painful joints, eyes, skin and fever. As a diuretic, it can help treat high blood pressure, increasing the flow of blood to the tissues and improving circulation, as well as being a blood vessel strengthener and cleanser.
Arthritis & Rheumatism – Another traditional remedy for treating rheumatism and arthritis, due mainly to it’s detoxifying properties
Pregnancy and Lactation -Taken in moderation during the second & third trimesters, dandelion is a useful nutritional aid. It is also a galactagogue, used to promote lactation, increasing milk flow and supporting the breastfeeding process. Discuss with your midwife if you have any concerns.
Nutritional Tonic – With an amazing nutritional value, dandelion is high in vitamins A, B, C and D, plus iron, copper, potassium and higher levels of beta carotene than carrots, plus magnesium, zinc, manganese, choline, silicon, calcium and boron. Older leaves are bitter but the young leaves are great raw or cooked.
External Uses – A well-known remedy for warts, the ‘milk’ from the stem and leaves of fresh dandelion can help with treatment, although this can cause an allergic rash in some individuals. This milk can also be used externally to ease the pain of sores & bee stings and for acne, fungal infections and growths.
Do not use dandelion unless recommended by your health professional if taking insulin, diuretics, lithium or any medication which reduces blood sugar levels
Nature’s Sunshine offers excellent quality Dandelion Root and Mountain Rose Herbs offers Dandelion Leaf & Root in bulk.
Thanks for reading! Entry filed under: Cleansing & Detoxification, General Wellness, Herbs, natural health, Products. Tags: Detoxification, Healing, Health, Herbs, natural health, Nature's Sunshine Products, Nutrition, Parasite Cleansing, Preventative Health.
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