Dandelion (dandelyon in tagalog)

(Taraxacum officinale) Part used: Leaf and root. Properties: Cholagogue, diuretic, hepatic, lithotriptic, stomachic, alternative, astringent, galactagogue. What it affects: Liver, kidneys, gallbladder, stomach, pancreas, intestines and blood.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 30 min. Take 3-4 cup daily, hot or cold. Decoction: Simmer root 30 min. Take 6 oz. frequently or 3-4 times daily, hot or cold. Tincture: Take 30 -60 drops (1/2 – 1 tsp.) frequently. Powder (leaves): Take 10-20 #0 capsules (60-120 grains) frequently. Powder (root): Take 5-10 #0 capsules 30-60 grains frequently.

Purposes: Internally, dandelion is especially important in promoting the formation of bile and removing excess water from the body in edematous conditions resulting from liver problems. The root decidedly affects all forms of secretion and excretion from the body. By removing poisons from the system, it acts as a tonic and stimulant as well. It cleanses the body and liver. It is especially good as a blood cleanser for diabetes, dropsy and eczema. Because of its high mineral content, it is used to treat anemia. It reduces serum cholesterol and uric acid levels. Lukewarm dandelion tea is useful for dyspepsia with constipation, fever and insomnia.

• Dandelion improves the functioning of the pancreas, kidneys, spleen and stomach. An infusion of the fresh root is good for gallstones, jaundice, and other liver problems. For stomachaches, drink 1/2 cup of the infusion every 1/2 hour until relief is obtained. The root is a specific for hypoglycemia. Take a cup of the tea 2-3 times a day and maintain a balanced diet. With a good diet, the root tea can eliminate adult-onset diabetes. The root tea will also help lower blood pressure, thus aiding the action of the heart.

• Dandelion relieves menopausal symptoms and is useful for boils (taken internally), breast tumors, cirrhosis of the liver, constipation, liver, and spleen enlargement, fluid retention, hepatitis, jaundice, bronchitis, low blood sugar and rheumatism. It may help prevent age spots on the skin. Serious cases of hepatitis have been cured with the use of dandelion root tea within a week or two when the diet is controlled properly and limited to easily digested foods.

• The fresh juice is particularly effective, but a tea can also be prepared, Dandelion leaves are healthful as salad greens, especially in springtime. The roasted root is a coffee substitute.