Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a plant belongs to the Asteraceae family. Already in the Middle Ages it was used as a remedy for the liver and even today, thanks to its purifying and anti-inflammatory properties, it is considered an excellent ally in the treatment of diseases related to the liver. Let’s find out the characteristics and side effects of dandelion.
Dandelion: characteristics and properties
Dandelion is a perennial herbaceous plant with a large taproot, simple leaves with a toothed margin and a golden-yellow inflorescence. The fruits are achenes with a tuft of white hairs that, thanks to the wind, facilitates the dispersion of the seed.
Dandelion has purifying properties, useful for stimulating biliary, hepatic and renal function. Rich in triterpene alcohols, sterols, vitamins, inulin, minerals and bitter principles, the plant performs a tonic and digestive action.
Dandelion also contains flavonoids and potassium salts, useful for stimulating diuresis, useful in case of water retention, cellulite and hypertension.
The side effects of Dandelion
Dandelion may have some side effects, such as:
- gastric acidity,
- allergy.
It is not recommended to take it in case of ulcers, gastritis and gallstones, and it is always useful to seek the advice of a doctor before using it
