Nutritional Guide

Why you need it?

Closely related to chicory, dandelion is a common plant worldwide. The plant grows to a height of about 12 inches, producing spatula-like leaves and yellow flowers that bloom year-round. Upon maturation, the flower turns into the characteristic puff-ball containing seeds that are dispersed in the wind. The leaves which are excellent in salads are a powerful diuretic.

Dandelion leaves are a powerful diuretic and unlike conventional diuretics, dandelion does not leach potassium from the body; it's rich potassium content replaces that which the body loses. Experts recommend the alcohol-based tincture (as opposed to tablets)

Parts Used:

Leaves.

Constituents:

The principal constituents are sesquiterpene lactones of the eudesmanolide and germacra-nolide type, unique to dandelion. Triterpenes; taraxol and tara-xerol. Phenolic acids. Caro-tenoids; lutein and violaxanthin.

Precautions

GRAS - Generally recognized as safe. No adverse reactions, side effects or overdose symptoms expected when taken within the recommended amounts.

Dandelion leaf and root should be used with caution by persons with gallstones. If there is an obstruction of the bile ducts, then dandelion should be avoided altogether.

In cases of stomach ulcer or gastritis, dandelion should be used cautiously, as it may cause overproduction of stomach acid.

The leaves are a rich source of potassium, which is interesting since the leaves are used for their diuretic action. This may make dandelion the only naturally occurring potassium-sparing diuretic.

The safety or otherwise of the use of Dandelion during pregnancy or lactation has not been determined.

The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only. Neither the information provided nor products supplied or offered should be construed to be in any way substitutes for medical attention or prescribed medication. Consult with your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or herbal remedies if you are suffering from an undiagnosed illness or if you are on prescribed medication.

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