Dandelion Root
You may be familiar with dandelion as a stubborn garden weed, however in traditional herbal medicine dandelion is revered for its wide array of medicinal properties. The root is a diuretic, liver cleanser and detoxifier. It is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, a soluble fibre found in plants that supports the growth and maintenance of a healthy bacterial flora in the intestinal tract, making it an excellent digestive tonic and mild laxative. Common medicinal uses include: natural laxative, optimizes digestion, stabilizes mood swings.
Dandelion root is also one of the most potent liver tonic herbs, making it helpful for inflammation and congestion of the liver. It assists with liver stress from lifestyle factors such as alcohol, coffee and drug use, making it an ideal hangover remedy.
This herb is also used as a blood purifier, as it aids the liver in removing toxins from the blood. When roasted it makes an ideal caffeine-free coffee substitute.
Preparation
Leaf: 1-2 tsp/cup, steep 10 minutes.
Root: 1-2 tsp/cup, simmer covered 15 minutes.
Specifications for Dandelion Root
Botanical name | Taraxacum officinalis |
Other names | |
Country of Origin |
China |
Organic Status | Wildcrafted |
Plant Parts | Root |
Packaging | Home compostable, reusable zip lock pouch |
Precautions |
People with an allergy to the Asteracea or Daisy family may have a mild reaction to dandelion. |