Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale)

Dandelion, which is familiar to many of us, is named so because its petals are shaped like lion''s teeth, is also known as the "Lion''s tooth".

Dandelion which is very nutritious and with its many medicinal uses, are popular not only in America, but in Europe and Asia as well. In oriental medicine, dandelion is known as Pu Gong Ying, and is used as a single medicinal prescription to treat acute mastitis and tuberculosis.

One of the greatest physicians and pharmacologists in Chinese history, Dr. Li Shizhen wrote in his book, "Ben Cao Gang Mu, Compendium of Materia Medica" that "Pu Gong Ying is non-toxic, it makes hair black, and strengthens muscles and bones".

Dandelion leaves are natural diuretics (promotes urine), used to treat many disorders. With its diuretic property, it is especially used to treat abdominal distention associated with PMS, and hypertension (high blood pressure). (prolonged use of diuretics will lower body''s potassium level, so when using diuretics, its important to consume foods high in potassium like banana and fresh vegetables to maintain the potassium level. Fortunately, dandelion itself is good source of potassium, however, when dandelion is for prolonged period, other foods high in potassium should be consumed for safety.)

Except for few, many Americans considers dandelions as just weeds on their lawns. Even FDA considers dandelion to be just weeds, stating that it has "no proven medical effects". However, its only considered to be weed because its uses are not yet proven, it doesn''t mean its not effective. A weed can be a plant that has yet to be proven, not necessary useless. Likewise, Eastern and Western cultures may have different views on dandelion, but nonetheless, it''s a valuable herb. Both root and whole leaves of a dandelion may be used together, however, its more effective to use them separately according to the nature of disorder.

Indication:

1. Leaves are usually used for:

a. relives abdominal distention due to PMS (premenstrual syndrome)

b. Weigh loss

In animal studies its shown approximately 30% weight loss. (not all animal studies may be accurate in human body, however, dandelion''s diuretic property is known to be very effective in removing excess water from the body)

c. used to treat hypertension and congestive heart failure (CHF)

2. Root is usually used for:

a. promotes bile secretion and activates gall bladder functions

Its especially effective in treatment of jaundice and often used to treat gallstone

b. its an antioxidant that prevents progress of cancer (dandelion is rich in antioxidant believed to prevent cancer, vitamin A and vitamin

c. promotes digestion

d. lowers bloods sugar level

Preparation:

Dandelion starts to stores nutrients in its roots in the autumn in order to survive the winter. Hence, in early spring, one can dig up the plump root from deep inside the soil. The root can be cleaned well, and dried in sun for about a week and stored in the cool, dry place. Also, the dandelion flower can be made into wine, but it should be picked in spring before its at a full bloom.

Add 1 L of soju or vodka to 300-400g of finely chopped dandelion flower and root, and age for 2-3 months.

In folk medicine, dandelion wine is used to treat fever, asthma, phlegm, and also to treat diarrhea and constipation.

Caution:

When using dandelion for weight loss, medical professional should be consulted (MD or licensed acupuncturist).