Common name for Herb
Although dandelion as an herb is widely known and recognized it also goes by other poplar terms such as Pu gong ying, piss-in-bed, lion’s tooth, priest's crown, puff ball, cankerwort, wild endive, prince in paupers clothing, swine's snout, clock flower, royal herb, and yellow gowan. Its official name is taraxacum officinale.
Occurrence
The dandelion herb is thought to have been a lawn nuisance or weed as it is seen in most North American and European gardens.
Parts used of the Herb
The root- fresh and dried, the young blooms of the dandelion herb contain medicinal properties and are used to prepare medications. Most parts of the dandelion herb contain reasonably bitter, milky latex. However, the juice extracted from the root of the dandelion is considered to be highly potent for medicinal purposes.
Medicinal uses
The benefits of dandelion range from remedies for liver complaints to dyspepsia, and as a mild laxative for constipation. The herb has been venerated throughout ancient times and is viewed as an excellent remedy for gall, spleen and liver disorders, while also being used as a safe and active plant diuretic. One of its common names, Piss-in-bed, is from the French term ‘pissenlit’, which suggests the herb’s quality of urging the kidneys to expel urine. Women, who experience menstrual cramps, bloating, and discomfort through the days are known to obtain significant relief by consuming an herbal decoction made from dandelion tea. Dandelion benefits are also seen when used in combination with other active herbal remedies. Dandelion is used by herbalists to treat dropsy, pulmonary tuberculosis and some cutaneous diseases. Dandelion decoction from the herb or the root is useful for hypovitaminosis, tuberculosis characterized by swellings of the lymphatic glands, eczema and all kinds of external swellings on the body. The green leaves of the dandelion herb are extremely useful in reducing excess acidity. It further helps in oxygenating, purifying and building clean blood in the body and further helps in cleansing and regenerating the body cells. Dandelion benefits also extend to the stimulation of the mucus membranes, soothing of the digestive tract, absorption of the toxins from the bowel, and assisting the friendly flora or bacteria to flourish while inhibiting harmful bacteria. Eating the leaves of the dandelion herb on a regular basis is thought to relieve diabetes.
Dandelion Herb Administered as
The dandelion herb and roots of the plant can be administered in both fresh or dried forms. It is also commercially available as tinctures, liquid distill, herbal concoctions, decoctions, teas, pills and capsules. As a dietary supplement, dandelion can be had alone or in combination with other active herbal remedies.