The dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis) is a widespread wild herb and grows in meadows, rubble heaps, wasteland, but also in gardens, cracks in walls or on roadsides. Some people consider the yellow flower with the distinctively serrated leaves to be a weed. But it is not only very useful as a bee pasture and food: thanks to its ingredients, dandelion is also a potent medicinal plant.
The term “common dandelion” refers to a group of closely related plant species from the genus Dandelion (Taraxacum) from the daisy family. In everyday life, people usually just talk about “dandelion” without making a distinction from the related genusLeontodonThe latter is also known as milkweed or dandelion and plays no role in medicine.
A widespread plant
The perennial herbaceous plant originally comes from Western Asia and Europe, but has spread over large parts of the northern hemisphere with human help. It is less common in the southern hemisphere. Unlike other flowers, dandelions tolerate a high nitrate content in the soil and therefore thrive on grassland fertilized with manure. There they reach heights of 10 to 30 cm and form fleshy taproots 1 meter long. The dandelion's golden yellow petals and deeply serrated leaves are striking. Its main flowering period in Central Europe is March to May. As soon as the dandelion has finished flowering, its fruits form seeds with hairy parasols and make the plant the "Dandelion“.
What active ingredients does dandelion contain?
The main active ingredients of dandelion are certainBitter substances(sesquiterpenoids, taraxacin) as well as phenolic compounds (taraxacoside) and triterpenes. Dandelion also contains a large amount of potassium (up to 4.5 percent) and plenty of inulin (up to 40 percent in autumn). Other interesting ingredients areCholine,Tanninsand phenolic acids andFlavonoids. Both the herb and the root of the dandelion are used medicinally.
Dandelion – good for liver and digestion
TheBitter substances in dandelionpromote the secretion of the digestive glands. Preparations made from dandelion are therefore used for feelings of fullness and flatulence, digestive problems and lack of appetite, but also for disorders of the bile flow. In addition, aliver-protective effectof dandelion extracts. Dandelion is also traditionally used to increase the amount of urine and thus to flush the urinary tract.
Side effects and contraindications of dandelion products
Dandelion preparations are generally well tolerated in the recommended dosage. Higher doses can cause stomach problems. If you are allergic to Asteraceae, you should avoid taking them. If you suffer from gallstones or a blockage of the bile ducts, you should consult a doctor before using them.
Dandelions to eat?
The fresh, young leaves of the common dandelion are ideal as a base for salads (known in Austria as "Röhrlsalat"), but also as a mixed ingredient in a healthy smoothie. The yellow flowers of the flower can be used to make honey-like syrups and jellies as a delicious spread. After the Second World War, the inulin-rich roots were used in Germany as a coffee substitute. This use of the dried and roasted root, born out of necessity, is enjoying a certain popularity again today.
