Dandelion - Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion - Taraxacum officinale - family: Asteraceae (Compositae) (Sunflower Family) (Composite Family).

This perennial plant grows to about one foot high. It has jagged lance-shaped dark green leaves. In the spring, summer and fall it produces yellow flowerheads which are soon followed by spherical seedheads. Each tiny beige-colored seed (achene) has a tiny parachute (pappus) which can ride on the slightest breeze. The familiar yellow-headed blossoms mark this plant's appearance in lawns across North America. Greens used traditionally in Europe and America both raw in salads and as a cooked vegetable. Traditional European and American folk use of leaves as a remedy for acne, anemia, diabetes, eczema, edema, gall bladder problems, gallstones, high blood pressure and urinary tract disorders. Traditional European folk use of leaves as a bitter digestive aid. Traditional European and American folk use of roots as a remedy for acne, constipation, diabetes, eczema, edema, gall bladder problems, gallstones, gout, indigestion, inflammation, liver problems, kidney problems, arthritis, and rheumatism. Modern European folk use of roots as a remedy for allergies and hay fever. Traditional European and American folk use of whole plant: (flowers, leaves and roots) as a remedy for acne, congestive heart failure, edema, gall bladder problems, gallstones, gout, indigestion, liver problems and urinary tract infections. Approved by the German Commission E as a remedy for gall bladder problems, kidney stones, liver problems, urinary tract infections and for a poor appetite. Modern American folk use of leaves and roots as a remedy for high blood pressure, menstrual problems, menstrual cramps, joint pain, obesity and pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). Under the name Dughdapheni, Dandelion has been traditionally used as Ayurvedic medicinal herb. In the sense of protecting the liver against the toxicity of alcohol, Dandelion might be construed as a remedy for the alcoholic hangover, although it would probably have no direct effect on the symptoms felt. Juice from the stems has been used externally on warts. Dandelion was probably one of the bitter herbs used by Jewish faithful in the Passover meal in Biblical times. Also used as an herbal tea, which is usually made from the dried root. Flower petals have been used as the base for making Dandelion wine. It may cause a skin rash in certain individuals. Note: do not use if pregnant or nursing. Note: long term use may not be advisable due to a lack of studies on long term effects. Note: possible side effects from ingesting Dandelion include diarrhea, indigestion and liver pain. Note: avoid harvesting Dandelions from areas such as lawns which have been sprayed with herbicides. The roots will yield a magenta-colored dye. Note: large doses may cause diarrhea, indigestion or a rash. Dandelion roots were listed in the United States Pharmacopoeias from 1830 to 1910. Native to Europe. Naturalized in eastern, central and western North America. Naturalized in California.

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Web page last updated on 20 May 2003.