by Darcia Helle

Created on: April 17, 2009

Dandelion is a perennial herb found throughout the temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. The dandelion grows to be several inches in height, with a bright yellow flower, thin stem, and jagged leaves. The root, leaves, and stem all contain a milky fluid.

More than one theory exists on the origins of the dandelion's name. The most generally accepted theory is that the shape of the leaves inspired the French phrase dent de lion, meaning lion's tooth. This phrase eventually evolved into the word dandelion.

However, some argue that the phrase dent de lion was meant to describe the way the leaves resembled the angular jaw of a lion fully supplied with teeth. Others claim the yellow flowers can be compared to the golden teeth of the heraldic lion. And yet another claim is that the whiteness of the root is the feature which provides the resemblance.

In the 1879 book Pharmacographia, Fluckiger and Hanbury claim that the name dandelion was given to the plant by Wilhelm, a surgeon who was so impressed by the virtues of the plant that he compared it to Dens leonis (Latin for lion's tooth).

Regardless of the name's origin, most people consider the dandelion to be an annoying weed. Yet this "weed" is actually quite a nutritious herb. The dandelion is rich in nutrients that include vitamins A, B-complex, C, and D; iron; magnesium; potassium, manganese; zinc; copper; choline; and calcium.

The first known mention of the dandelion's medicinal use is in the works of the Arabian physicians of the tenth and eleventh centuries, where it is mentioned under its Latin name Taraxacon as a type of wild Endive. In the thirteenth century, Welsh medicine alluded to the dandelion's medicinal properties.

The root and leaves of the dandelion appear to have separate beneficial effects. The root has been used in traditional medicine worldwide as a treatment for a variety of liver and gallbladder ailments. The detoxifying effect of the dandelion root aids in the removal of waste from the body. Common uses of the root include treating illnesses believed to be caused by a sluggish or congestive liver, including constipation, headaches, fatigue, and various skin problems.

Due to the dandelion root's effect on bile secretion, the German Commission E recommends that those with obstruction of the bile ducts or any serious disease of the gallbladder only use it with the guidance of a healthcare practitioner.

Dandelion leaves are best known for their diuretic effect. Their potassium content makes dandelion leaves a safe alternative to the prescription diuretics that normally deplete the body's store of potassium.

Of all the greens available, dandelion leaves contain the highest content of vitamin A. Dandelion leaves may be eaten raw, used in a stir fry, or boiled.

Dandelion has no known drug interactions. However, caution should be used if combining dandelion with prescription diuretics.

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