Although reviled by groundskeepers and homeowners, the common dandelion is revered by herbalists. In her book, "Indian Herbalogy of North America," Alma Hutchens declared that the dandelion is used "more generally than any other herb, as it combines well with other herbal preparations ... and is so mild, wholesome and safe." Both the leaves and the root of the dandelion possess medicinal properties, although neither is approved in the U.S. for treating or preventing any disease or condition. Ask your physician if it is safe for you to take dandelion.
Healthy Beverage
Dandelion root can be chopped or ground, then dried and used as a coffee substitute. Whether used alone or combined with toasted almonds, chicory, or roasted rye or barley, dandelion root is a healthier choice than coffee or tea if you wish to avoid caffeine.
Gallbladder
The "Physicians' Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines" cites dandelion's tendency to increase the flow of bile through the liver and biliary tract. This so-called cholagogic effect is due, in part, to some of the bitter constituents found in dandelion leaves and roots and is presumably the basis for dandelion's traditional use in treating liver disorders. Dandelion is not approved for treating any diseases of the liver, however, and you should not use it if you have gallstones or other conditions that might cause obstruction of the bile ducts.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Depending on when dandelion roots are collected, they can contain up to 40 percent inulin by weight. Inulin is an indigestible fiber that passes through the gut relatively intact, so it can act as a mild laxative. Herbalists exploit this property to alleviate constipation, but if you aren't accustomed to eating inulin-containing foods, you could develop gas and bloating if you consume too much dandelion at first. Dandelion root also contains bitter lactones that stimulate the appetite and increase stomach secretions. However, Phylllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Herbal Healing," says that dandelion root can increase stomach acidity and ulcer pain.
Diuretic
Dandelion's pre-eminence as an effective herbal diuretic is reflected in its common French and English names, pissenlit and pissabeds, respectively, but this property is mainly invested in its leaves, rather than the root. Some herbalists have compared dandelion's diuretic potency to furosemide, a prescription medication, but the scientific evidence to support this claim is limited. Additionally, unlike furosemide, dandelion's potassium content is reputed to offset any potassium losses caused by its diuretic action. However, due to differences in collection and processing techniques, the potency of different dandelion preparations varies greatly. Therefore, dandelion should not be used in place of prescription drugs or as a substitute for medical care. If you think dandelion would be of benefit to you, check with your doctor first.
References
- "Indian Herbology of North America"; Alma R. Hutchens; 1973
- "Physicians' Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines"; Thomas Fleming, PharmD; 2000
- "Prescription for Herbal Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2002
- "Integrative Medicine"; Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale and T Mongolicum); Eric Yarnell and Kathy Abascal; 2009
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