– by Christina Menefree
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
“What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have yet been discovered.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
I don’t have to explain the bad reputation that dandelion has as a persistent weed. I was shocked myself to learn of the benefits of dandelion when I began to study herbs. This healing medicinal herb dates back 1,000 years.
Dandelion is in the Compositae family along with the daisy, echinacea, and marigold. It’s also known as lion’s tooth, wild endive, and piss-abed .
The Doctrine of Signatures, which says that a plant’s physical characteristics reveals their healing values, was first noted in the middles ages and is still believed today by many. Under this doctrine, anything yellow was linked to the liver’s bile and considered a liver remedy. This is proven to be correct as two German studies have shown that dandelion stimulated the flow of bile, which helps digest fats. In Germany, where herbal medicine is more mainstream than in the U.S., physicians routinely recommend dandelion to help improve the flow of bile and prevent gallstones.
Dandelion has a juicy root, stem, and leaves; therefore, the Doctrine of Signatures recognized it as a diuretic. Any plant that is juicy is linked to increased urine production. Due to its diuretic properties, it may be helpful in the treatment of PMS and high blood pressure.
Dandelion leaves contain the antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin C. These nutrients help prevent the cell damage that is a precursor to cancer and degenerative diseases.
Dandelion has also been found to prevent the growth of candida albicans, the fungus that causes vaginal yeast infections.
Studies are being done at the moment to test dandelion’s effectiveness as a tumor inhibitor. Also, it is being studied as a way to manage diabetes by its ability to reduce the amount of sugar in the blood.
There are many ways to enjoy this herb. You can add the fresh leaves to a salad. Of course, we know how great a green smoothie is and this would be a fantastic green to add. My favorite way to enjoy it is as a tea infusion with a little raw honey. You can also make or purchase a tincture. You may potentially prevent yeast infections by adding dried flowers and leaves to your bath water.
Please keep in mind that diuretics such as dandelion can be dangerous. Long term use of diuretics can deplete the body of potassium. This doesn’t happen as much with dandelion due to the high level of potassium that it already contains. To be on the safe side, include bananas and other potassium rich foods to your diet. Be aware that you may get a skin rash from dandelion if you are sensitive to it.
Once you start learning about herbs, you will never look at weeds the same again. I once saw them as pesky little devils that were set on ruining my yard. I now see them as a gift from God, given to us to keep us healthy and vibrant. I want to encourage everyone to go out and learn about these wonderful weeds. You will be amazed to learn of their true value.
Happy Spring!
Christina Menefee
www.livingonliquidsunshine.blogspot.com
References:
The New Healing Herbs by Michael Castleman
The Green Pharmacy by James A. Duke, Ph.D.
The New Age Herbalist by Richard Mabey