Parts Used In the West the leaves and root are used. The Chinese use the
whole plant, leaves, flower, roots and seed heads
Common Uses
Herbalists recommend Dandelion
root as a cleansing tonic for several conditions including jaundice and gallstones.
The root is also used for
constipation.
The leaves are used as a diuretic,
as well as a digestive aid and liver tonic.
The leaves make a tasty addition
to salads.
How The Dandelion Works It is not known how Dandelion works as the active components have
not been identified.
Side Effects There are no significant side effects known. A few people develop an
allergic skin rash after repeated contact with the Dandelion plant.
Safety Issues No contraindications are known at this time.
The History of Dandelion
This well known plant certainly needs no
description, it's bright yellow flower and distinctive leaves are as loathed by most
gardeners as they are loved by all children.
The Dandelion is a relative newcomer to the
medicinal herbal chest. It is not mentioned in Chinese herbals until the 7th century, and
it was not written about in Europe until 1485.
The name Dandelion is said to have been invented
by a 15th century surgeon who compared the leaves to the teeth of a lion.
