Medicinal Uses of Dandelion

Growing up, I remember always being sad when my parents would spray weed killer on dandelions or chop them down with the lawnmower. Imagine my delight when I researched all of the medicinal value in dandelions! They have been, and always will be, a welcome addition to my garden. :)

Digestion problems, sluggish liver and/or gallbladder function:
*As a bitter herb, dandelion root stimulates gastrointestinal functions. An infusion of roasted root is an alternative to coffee and, if taken before or heavy meal, can pleasantly stimulate digestion and handle issues with the liver and/or gallbladder

Instructions:
*Infuse 1/2 tsp- 2tsp. dried or roasted dandelion root in each 1 cup boiling water. Steep for 20 minutes and strain. Drink 3 cups per day. If using roasted root, add milk to taste but avoid sweeteners because they diminish the herb's effectiveness.


As a Detox and Diuretic:
*Feeling sluggish or run-down? It might be time to detox. Dandelion leaves have powerful diuretic activity. They promote the production and excretion of urine and also stimulate the liver and gallbladder. The leaf is also a wonderful source of potassium, so if you need this nutrient, try this tea:

Instructions:
*Infuse 1-2 tsp. dried dandelion leaves in each 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for 20 minutes and strain. Drink 3 cups per day.


For additional information, see: references and warnings

Dandelion

Name:
*Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)


Description:
*Most Americans consider dandelion a pesty weed. What they don't realize is that dandelion is one of the BEST nutritional and medicinal plants!
*perennial
*best in zones 3-9

Parts Used:
*whole plant, fresh or dried (flower does not dry well)

Position:
*full sun to partial shade
*no special soil needs

Propagation:
*easy to grow from seed, will germinate with no special treatment, but if you do cold stratification first, there is almost a 90% success rate
*you can sow directly into the garden

Maintenance:
*if self sows vigorously, so keep it in check: harvest before it self seeds for best results

Harvesting:
*You can harvest the whole plant at once, or if interested in only the roots (the strongest medicinal part), use a garden fork to gently pry the plant from the ground. The roots are best harvested in early spring or late fall
*If you are harvesting the whole plant, you can harvest at any time (you do not have to wait until early spring or late fall for the roots)
*Harvest the leaves and flowers at any time
*It is easiest to dig up the whole plant in spring

Medicinal:
*restorative and rejuvenating, a whole body tonic
*medicinal value for almost every body system, especially the liver, urinary tract, and skin
*it is highly effective and very safe to use
*good for constipation, kidney problems, treating warts, and coughs
*it is a blood cleanser, high in vitamins A,B,C, and D, removes toxins from the body, high levels of potassium, good for gallbladder conditions, and digestion

Cooking:
*both the leaves and roots have long been eaten as a highly nutritious salad.
*the roots, when dried, chopped and roasted, is an excellent substitute for coffee
*the flowers make a famous and delicious dandelion wine

For additional information, see: references and warnings