Dandelion . . .

Dandelion, Taraxacum officinale

There are 100+ species of dandelion, a common meadow herb of the Asteraceae or sunflower family. All are beneficial.

The sun-loving plant, a native of Greece, is familiar to all of us. It grows freely wherever it can find a place so before you pull up all of yours you might want to consider letting a few grow. The dandelion's nutritive and medicinal qualities have been known for centuries.

The following article is by Deb Jackson and Karen Bergeron on altnature.com. Click here for complete article

External Uses

The fresh juice of Dandelion is applied externally to fight bacteria and help heal wounds. The plant has an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of Staphococcus aureus, pneumococci, meningococci, Bacillus dysenteriae, B. typhi, C. diphtheriae, proteus. The latex contained in the plant sap can be used to remove corns and warts.

Internal Uses

Dandelion is also used for the treatment of the gall bladder, kidney and urinary disorders, gallstones, jaundice, cirrhosis, hypoglycemia, dyspepsia with constipation, edema associated with high blood pressure and heart weakness, chronic joint and skin complaints, gout, eczema and acne. As a tonic, Dandelion strengthens the kidneys. An infusion of the root encourages the steady elimination of toxins from the body. Dandelion is a powerful diuretic but does not deplete the body of potassium.

Disclaimer - These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information on this web site is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.