Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)

Botanical Identification

• Common Name: Dandelion Root
• Latin Name: Taraxacum officinale
• Plant Family: Asteraceae
• Parts Used: Root

Energetics & Taste

• Taste: Bitter
• Energetics: Cooling, drying

Clinical Actions & Affinities

• Primary Actions: Bitter, Liver tonic
• Target Body Systems: Digestive system, Liver, Gallbladder
• Indications: The ultimate liver and gallbladder stimulant. It triggers bile production, which is essential for breaking down heavy fats and getting a sluggish bowel moving. It acts as a natural, gentle laxative to get stagnant digestion moving.

Preparation & Clinical Dosage

• Best Extractions: Decoction (long simmer), Tincture
• Standard Dosage: 1-2 tsp dried root per cup of water

Safety & Contraindications

• Precautions: Generally recognized as safe.
• Contraindications: Gallbladder obstruction or severe gallstones (due to bile stimulation).
• Known Interactions: None widely noted; always consult a physician regarding medication interactions.