Ingredients
Dandelion(Taraxacum officinale)
Parts Used: leaves and root
Active Compounds (38 in number)
The principal constituents responsible for dandelion's effects are the bitter principles. Previously referred to as taraxacin, these constituents are:- Sesquiterpene lactones
eudesmanolide, and germacranolide types. - Triterpenes
taraxol, taraxerol, beta-amyrin - Phytosterols
taraxasterol,stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol - Phenolic acids
caffeic and hydroxyphenylacetic acids - Fatty acids
myristic acid - Carbohydrates
glucans, mannans, inulin, - Sugars
fructose, glucose, sucrose - Carotenoids
lutein, violaxanthin - Flavonoids
apigenin, luteolin - Miscellaneous
choline, mucilage, pectin
Dandelion is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The leaves have a very high content of vitamin A as well as moderate amounts of vitamin D, vitamin C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, zinc, and manganese.
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, although its diuretic action is likely different from that of pharmaceuticals. At very high doses, the leaves have been shown to possess diuretic effects comparable to the prescription diuretic Furosemide (Lasix).
History
Dandelion is commonly used as a food. The leaves are used in salads and teas, while the roots are often used as a coffee substitute. Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for hundreds of years (since the 3rd century) to treat problems of the joints, liver, gallbladder, and kidneys. In some countries, dandelion is considered a blood purifier and is used for ailments such as eczema and cancer. Dandelion has also been used historically to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver, including hepatitis. Dandelion has two particularly important uses: to promote the formation of bile and to remove excess water from the body. The root affects all forms of secretion and excretion from the body. It acts as a tonic and stimulant by removing toxins and poisons from the body, and increases the flow of urine in patients with liver problems. It is slightly laxative.