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Dandelion is considered to be one of the newest additions to the herbal repertoire. Historians have noted that there is no mention of the dandelion plant in Western history until its first appearance in the Ortus Sanitatis of 1485.

In traditional Chinese medicine, dandelion was also not mentioned until later times. The dandelion did not become a popular Chinese herbal plant until the 7th century. The name of the dandelion has always invoked curiosity.

How did this herb get its funny name? The story goes that the dandelion got its name from a surgeon in the 15th century, who thought that the shape of the dandelion leaves resembled a lion's teeth.

Dandelion is also interesting because it is used differently in different parts of the world. In the West, for instance, it is customary to separate the leaves and the root of the tree. However, in traditional Chinese medicine, it is customary to keep the plant intact when preparing herbal remedies.

The taste of dandelion has been described as cool, sweet, and sometimes bitter. The leaves are known to contain bitter glycosides, vitamins A, B, C, D, several minerals, including salt, iron, and potassium.

The leaves of the dandelion plant also contain carotenoids, terpenoids, choline, and potassium salts. The root of the dandelion plant contains tannins, volatile oils, triterpenes, sterols, bitter glycosides, asparagus, and inulin. The leaves of the dandelion plant are thought to be diuretic in nature.

They are also believed to have the ability to treat liver problems, and to serve as a strong digestive tonic. The root of the dandelion plant is also used. The root is mostly thought of as a liver tonic, antirheumatic, and diuretic. It is also believed to promote the flow of bile.  

An Interesting Herb Fact

The root of the dandelion plant can also be used to treat chronic toxic conditions including skin problems (acne, eczema, etc.) and joint inflammations. It is also considered a powerful tool for treating chronic constipation.

The Dandelion plant can be found in a number of herbal remedies. Dandelion leaves can be consumed raw by adding a few springs to a spring salad as a cleansing herb. A juice can also be created from the dandelion leaves. Simply puree the leaves and take the juice whenever a diuretic action is sought.

Dandelion leaves are often infused to create a hot tea that helps treat toxic conditions such as eczema, acne and even gout. It also serves as a very gentle liver and digestive stimulant that has a gentle cleansing action.

The Dandelion can also be made into a tincture that can be taken for a variety of reasons, including as a herb to help heal a failing heart. The root can also be turned into at tincture to great gout, acne, and eczema.