Family Name: Compositae
Botanical Name(s): Taraxacum Officinale
Popular Name(s): Blowball, Cankerwort, Puffball, Swine Snout,
White Endive, Wild Endive, Foreign Dandelion.
Parts Used: Leaves and Root
Habitat: Dandelion is grown commercially in the United States
and Europe.
Description: Dandelion is a perennial with a thick taproot. The
saw-toothed leaves form a rosette at the base of the plant. Solitary,
bright yellow flowers appear from spring to autumn. Ribbed fruits
bearing tufts of fine, white hairs follow flowers. Dandelion is well
known as a garden weed.
Uses: Dandelion is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals.
Dandelion is commonly used as a food. The leaves are used in salads and
teas, while the roots are often used as a coffee substitute. Dandelion
leaves and roots have been used for hundreds of years to treat liver,
gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some countries, dandelion is
considered a blood purifier and is used for ailments such as eczema and
cancer. Dandelion has also been used historically to treat poor
digestion.
