Dandelion Leaf
DGStoreUK
£ 2.59
Description
Common dandelion - also known as dandelion - is also a medicinal plant and a common weed. Anyone who has been dealing with the care of lawns or flower beds knows that these yellow flowers are accompanied by a very strong root that grows deep into the ground. It is, beside the leaves and flowers, a valued herbal raw material.Parts used: Root and leaves
The root is collected in May, June, and autumn.
Dried for use in infusions, drinkable extracts and capsules.
Common dandelion - properties
The chemical compounds contained in the dandelion give the plant a bitter taste and a characteristic smell. They have a beneficial effect on the human body:
- stimulate the digestive system, thus have a positive effect on digestion;
- have a diastolic effect on the muscles surrounding the entire digestive system;
- help maintain the body's electrolyte balance by removing excess sodium and potassium ions from the blood;
- stimulate the liver and kidneys;
- have anti-inflammatory effect;
- support the body in the fight against viruses and fungi;
- contain inulin, which contributes to the development of normal bacterial flora in the gut.
Dandelion - the use of a dandelion root
There are many reasons why you should use Dandelion. The description of the root properties indicates that it is very good support for the body, which is worth reaching even prophylactically. However, it is particularly useful in the fight against frequent ailments. Due to the action of choleretic dandelion is recommended for digestive problems, chronic heartburn, and in the absence of appetite. In addition, the dandelion root can help relieve the discomfort of the urinary tract, purify the body, as well as fight infections - both those related to the respiratory tract and common cold, as well as skin problems. In folk medicine, fresh dandelion root juice is used, for example, for the treatment of warts. Dried is best prepared in the form of decoction, although you can meet here and there also recipes for improving digestion tinctures, which is based on common dandelion.
Possible Side Effects
Dandelion root is generally considered safe and well tolerated in adults if consumed in moderation. Some people may experience side effects, including heartburn, diarrhea, upset stomach, and irritated skin.
If you are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigold, chamomile, feverfew, yarrow, or plants in the Asteraceae family (such as sunflowers and daisies), you should avoid dandelion root as it may trigger rash, watery eyes, and other allergy symptoms. Dandelion also contains iodine and latex, so avoid it if you have allergies to either of these substances.
Pregnant women, nursing women, and children are advised to avoid dandelion remedies due to the lack of research into their long-term safety. It is also possible that consuming too much dandelion may reduce fertility in women and testosterone levels in men due to a substance in the plant, called phytoestrogen, which mimics estrogen
Drug Interactions
Dandelion can interact with certain drugs, either affecting how the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, metabolized by the liver, or cleared from the body in urine. Speak with your doctor if you are taking a dandelion remedy along with any of the following drugs:
Antibiotics like Cipro (ciprofloxacin) and Penetrex (enoxacin)
Antidepressants like Elavil (amitriptyline)
Antipsychotics like lithium and Haldol (haloperidol)
Diuretics like Lasix (furosemide)
Estrogen-based contraceptives
Statin drugs like Mevacor (lovastatin) and Lipitor (atorvastatin)
In some cases, a dose adjustment may be needed. Other drugs may also be affected, so never hesitate to tell your doctor about any herbal, naturopathic, homeopathic, or traditional medicine you may be taking.
Dosage and Preparation
There are no guidelines for the appropriate use of dandelion root in the United States. However, in Europe, both the European Commission and the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia recommended the following range of doses considered safe for adults.
Fresh dandelion root: 2 to 8 grams daily
Dandelion root powder: 3 to 4 grams mixed with 150 milliliters of warm water
Dandelion tea infusion: 1 tablespoon of chopped root mixed with 150 milliliters of hot water for 20 minutes
Fresh root extract: 1 to 2 tablespoons daily
Dried dandelion extract: 0.75 to 1.0 grams daily
Dandelion root supplements are also available in drugstores and vitamin supplement stores, along with tinctures, teas, extracts, ointments, powders, and dried organic root.
As a rule of thumb, never exceed the dosage recommended. If you experience side effects of any sort, stop treatment and call your doctor.