Dandelion is an extremely common plant found worldwide. It grows to a height of about 12 inches, with oblong, green leaves and distinctive yellow flowers that bloom year-round. When the plant matures, the flower turns into a fuzzy, globe-shaped cluster that contains seeds for propagation.
In many countries, dandelion is used as a food. It contains high amounts of vitamin A, and smaller amounts of vitamin C, vitamin D, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, manganese, selenium and zinc. Dandelion’s leaves are used in salads and teas, and since the plant is closely related to chicory, its roots are sometimes used as a coffee substitute. Both the leaves and root are used in herbal preparations.
Historically, dandelion has been used to treat problems relating to the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and
joints. Dandelion leaves and root have been used to treat constipation, indigestion,
heartburn, and to remove water from the body, while the root is used to increase
bile production in the gallbladder and to treat liver problems. Animal studies
have found that dandelion leaves act as a diuretic and are comparable to prescription
medications for their effects, but these studies have not been conducted in humans.
In traditional Chinese medicine, dandelion is used during instances when there is liver involvement with heat and toxins in the blood. These conditions include jaundice, hepatitis, urinary tract infections, red or swollen eyes, and abscesses.
About 3-5 grams of dried dandelion root boiled as a tea is a suitable dose. It is recommended to begin the administration of the tea slowly to observe potential side effects including the stimulation of the gastrointestinal system and bowel.
Dandelion is available either fresh or as a dried root.
Because dandelion stimulates production of bile, it should not be used by patients with gallstones or an obstruction of the bile ducts. Patients with stomach ulcers or gastritis are generally encouraged to avoid dandelion, as it may stimulate overproduction of stomach acid.
The milky substance in the stem and leaves of fresh dandelion may cause an allergic rash in some people.
People with a confirmed sensitivity to inulin, a fiber widely found in fruits, vegetables and plants, should avoid dandelion.Certain medications may interact with dandelion. Loop diuretics, spironolactone, thiazide diuretics and triamterene may all react adversely with dandelion products. It may also reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin.
References
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