Rethinking Weeds: Dandelion
Dandelion for bloating, digestion and detoxification

Taraxacum officinale; a culinary staple in Europe for hundreds of years, with medicinal usage dating back to 10th century in Arab culture for liver & digestive ailments. Now considered a common ‘weed’ throughout much of the world, dandelion is not to be confused with Cats ears or false dandelion, which is covered with simple hairs and grows flat to the ground with several flowers, whereas True dandelion only has one flower.
Traditionally the leaves have been used for their diuretic action supporting kidney function. This was supported by one study which found a significant increase in the frequency of urination in the 5 hours after the first dose. Whereas the root has traditionally been used to support liver and gallbladder function, such as to stimulate the appetite and detoxification processes, assist digestive complaints and mild constipation.
A 2020 scientific review found dandelion had an anti-obesity effect via several mechanisms including lipid metabolism, reduction of liver inflammation/oxidation and improvement of insulin resistance. Another 2021 review of dandelions effect on human health examined 54 studies and found 12 medicinal properties found in scientific literature namely diuretic, hepatoprotective, anticolitis, immunoprotective, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antiarthritic, antidiabetic, antiobesity, antioxidant and anticancer effects. These require further human studies to understand these further.
Dandelion can be used as a tea or added to salads, smoothies, juices omelettes, fritters or flowers dipped in batter. The roots can be roasted and ground for non-caffeine coffee substitute. The leaves are highly nutritious vitamins and minerals particularly iron & B vitamins.
Dandelion Orange Salad (Isabell Shipard)
1 teaspoon orange rind
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
½ cup orange juice
3 tablespoons olive juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 clove crushed garlic
Mix together with 4 handfuls of dandelion leaves & serve

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This information is intended for educational purposes only. Please consult a health care provider before pursuing any herbal treatments. Herbs can interact with pharmaceutical medications. References available on request.