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Plant
Remedies
Dandelion
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Dandelion taraxacum
officinale
A relatively
recent addition to the medical repertoire. Though not occurring in the
Southern Hemisphere, it is at home in all parts of the north temperate
zone, in pastures, meadows and waste ground. In the West, we separate the
leaves and the root. The Chinese use the whole plant as a diuretic, and
liver stimulant. It is considered to clear heat and toxins from the blood,
and so used for boils and abscesses.
The leaves are rich in potassium, which is
generally lost through frequent urination. They are used for fluid
retention, especially with heart problems and for other urinary disorders.
The root is a favourite liver stimulant and is
used as a gentle tonic for a range of problems including gallstones,
jaundice, constipation, joint inflammations and eczema.
Studies in humans have shown that dandelion
enhances the flow of bile, improving such conditions as liver congestion,
bile duct inflammation, hepatitis and jaundice.
Because of its strong affinity to the liver, the
plant was assigned to the doctrine of signatures because of its bright
yellow flowers.
Constituents
Leaves : bitter glycosides, carotenoids, terpenoids, choline, potassium
salts, iron, vitamins A, B, C, D,
Root : bitter glycosides, tannins, triterpenes,
sterols, volatile oil, choline, asparagin, inulin
Character
Chinese herbal medicine regards it as cold, bitter, sweet
Action
Leaves :diuretic, liver and digestive tonic
Root : Liver tonic, promote bile flow, diuretic,
mild laxative, antirheumatic
Application
Fresh This is traditionally added to spring salads as a cleansing remedy..
Infusion This is traditionally used for toxic
conditions including gout and eczema. Also as a gentle liver and digestive
stimulant.
Tincture This is traditionally added to remedies
for a failing heart to ensure adequate potassium intake.
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This page was last updated on 14 December 2006 22:58:03
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