Dandelion
Latin: Taraxacum Officinalis
Parts used: Leaves, roots, flower
Flavors: Bitter
Energetics: Cooling, drying
Actions: Bitter tonic, hepatic, cholagogue, diuretic
Affinities: digestive system, liver, kidneys, urinary tract, gallbladder, skin
Dandelion is a premier bitter carminative in Western herbalism that can be found growing in the northern temperate hemisphere of the world. As a bitter tonic, Dandelion has an affinity for the liver and gallbladder, as well as the entire digestive system. It promotes the production and secretion of bile from the liver and gallbladder, pancreatic enzymes, and GI secretions, promoting healthier assimilation of nutrients and overall bodily function.
As a alterative, it supports the elimination of excess dampness and cools excessive heat in the body. Dandelion is an excellent herb to work with for those who need help cleansing the lymphatic system, kidneys, and liver, or for those with edema (water retention), as it helps the cells to evacuate water—moving excess water from the organs to the kidneys for elimination.
