Dandelion

Scientific name: Taraxacum officinale

Common name: tarassaco, dente di leone, soffione, pisciacane,

English name: dandelion

Parts used: root, leaves and flowers

Components: inulin, bitter principles, carotene, flavonoids, caffeic acid, potassium. Root- rich in inulin (up to 40%), diverse polyphenols, coline, caffeic acid. Leaves- carotenoids (lutein), Vitamin A, B, C and D.

Properties: diuretic; purifying; improves liver and intestinal functions.

Suggested use: folk medicine has recognized this plant as having liver stimulating and blood cleansing functions. It also possesses a potent diuretic activity that justifies its use as a purifying and draining plant, i.e. the elimination of toxins by the body through the natural excretory systems of the liver, kidneys, intestines and skin.

The leaves, useful for improving diuresis, also perform their action when eaten fresh with flowers in salads.

Taraxacum officinale is free of contraindications except in the presence of bile duct occlusions and gallbladder congestion.