The dandelion (or Taraxacum) is a large genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family - the same plant group as daisies and sunflowers. Their name comes from the French phrase "dents de lion," which literally translates to mean "teeth of the lion," due to the plant's serrated leaves. Although they are native to Europe and Asia, dandelions have now spread around the world, and are largely considered "pest" or "weed" species. It was first mentioned as a medicine in the writings of tenth century Arabian physicians, and has been used across Europe for centuries. The roots, leaves, and the flower can all be used medicinally, although the roots are the most potent. The juice from the plant is milky in color and bitter in taste.

Dandelion can be used to treat a wide range of medical complaints. It is non-toxic, so large doses may safely be taken, and it works best when combined with other herbs. In Canada, dandelion is a registered drug. The plant acts as a stimulant, especially to the urinary organs, and is an effective natural diuretic. Dandelion is especially good in this use because it is a source of potassium, replenishing whatever potassium is lost through the kidneys. The plant also has hepatic qualities, and can be an effective treatment for liver disease - even serious conditions such as cirrhosis. The bitter compounds in dandelion leaves stimulate digestion, and have a mild laxative effect. These compounds also increase bile production and bile flow from the liver, helping to improve fat and cholesterol metabolism. The plant also contains the antioxidant lutein, which is important for good vision and the prevention of atherosclerosis. Dandelion can be used for general detoxification, blood purification, as an anti-viral agent, to help "good bacteria" in the gastrointestinal tract, and to stabilize blood sugar levels. The plant is beneficial for the liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, stomach, gall bladder, and cardiovascular system. The long list of conditions that dandelion is used to treat includes: gall stones, jaundice, piles, warts, eczema, scurvy, scrofula, anemia, jaundice, nervousness, water retention, hepatitis, poor digestion, calluses, bee stings, sores, liver disease, high blood pressure, rheumatism, arthritis, degenerative joint disease, and PMS. The milky juice from the plant can even be applied to the skin as a mosquito repellent.

Medicinal dosing varies slightly depending on the condition you are treating. To stimulate digestion, or as a general tonic, a typical dose would be three to five grams of dried root in capsule or powder form, five to ten milliliters of a root tincture, or twenty to thirty drops of a fluid root extract - taken three times per day. As a diuretic or appetite stimulant, an appropriate dose would be four to ten grams of dried leaves (added to one cup of boiling water), five to ten milliliters of fresh leaf juice, or two to five milliliters of a leaf tincture - also taken three times per day. Different parts of the plant are often utilized for different conditions; for example, the root is usually used as a hepatic, and the leaf as a diuretic. Dandelion is also grown commercially as a leaf vegetable. The leaves can be eaten cooked or raw, and have a slightly bitter taste. The young leaves are least bitter.

Dandelion is rich in vitamins and minerals; the plant is a richer source of vitamin A than carrots, and has more iron and calcium than spinach. The leaves are high in vitamin C and beta carotene, and are a source of potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, silicon, vitamin B6, chlorophyll, and essential amino acids.

Culinary uses of dandelion include dandelion wine (made with the flowers, and usually combined with citrus for flavor), and dandelion jam. The leaves do well in salads and soups. Ground, roasted dandelion root is also available as a coffee substitute. Dandelion can even be used to make beer, and is a main ingredient in a British soft drink called "Dandelion and Burdock". Despite its common perception as a weed plant, dandelion can reap numerous benefits when taken medicinally. It is available at most health food stores in various forms, and is relatively inexpensive. In addition, it can easily be found for free - merely by taking a brief stroll outside.

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