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Dandelion Root Tincture
I absolutely love dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). It is probably my favorite herb. You can literally use every part of dandelion, however in this article we will be focusing on dandelion root, it’s benefits and properties. AND…I’m going to share with you my recipe for dandelion root tincture.
This dandelion root tincture has so many health benefits including simply supporting overall health and wellbeing…plus it’s super simple to make.
What Is Dandelion Root Good For?
Dandelion root is one of the most effective detoxifying herbs. It works mostly on the liver and gallbladder to help remove waste products while also stimulating the kidneys to remove toxins in the urine.
That said..dandelion root can be used to treat a variety of illnesses and ailments. Here are a few of them:
stomach, digestion, and gastrointestinal conditions
constipation
detoxification of the liver
acne
eczema
high cholesterol
heartburn
disorders
diabetes
cancer
joint stiffness
What Are The Side Effects Of Dandelion Root?
Dandelion root is generally considered safe and well tolerated in adults if consumed in moderation. Some people have reported side effects, including heartburn, diarrhea, upset stomach, and irritated skin.
Dandelion also contains iodine and latex, so avoid it if you have allergies to either of these substances.
Pregnant women, nursing women, and children are advised to avoid dandelion remedies due to the lack of research into their long-term safety.
What is a tincture?
Before learning how to make a tincture, it is important to learn what a tincture is!
Tinctures are a method for extracting and preserving the medicinal constituents of herbs in a solvent other than water.
Using a solvent like alcohol, vinegar, or glycerin, you can extract a greater spectrum of the whole plant and preserve the medicine much longer than an infusion or a decoction.
Alcohol is an excellent solvent to use because it works so well to extract the widest range of plant properties and allows for the easy absorption of its healing compounds into the body.
Folk Method Dandelion Root Tincture
For this tincture I will be preparing it using the folk method which means I will simply be eyeballing the measurements rather than measuring precisely or using a strict ratio.
I have found that eyeballing root tinctures still gets good results.
Tip: When using the folk method, I recommend keeping a notebook of your recipes so that they may be ajusted or reproduced to create consistent results.
Making the Dandelion Root Tincture
- Dig enough fresh dandelion root to fill a jar 2/3 of the way full of finely chopped roots.
- Pour high proof alcohol (vodka or brandy) over the herbs until the alcohol level is an inch above the top of the herbs. If using dry herbs, they may absorb the liquid, so check and add alcohol as needed.
- Cover tightly with a lid and place the jar in a dark cupboard and allow to soak or macerate for 4-6 weeks.
- Give the jar a gentle shake every 2-3 days. Make sure the roots are still covered with alcohol. If not, add more alcohol.
- After 4-6 weeks, strain your liquid from the roots. To strain, you can pour your liquid through a fine mesh sieve into another wide mouth jar, or through cheesecloth. If using cheesecloth, squeeze the bundle tightly to get all the liquid out. Whatever you prefer is fine.
- Allow the liquid to settle overnight. Strain again if necessary.
- Transfer into labeled, amber bottles and store in dark place.
Dandelion Root Tincture Dosing
The book Backyard Medicine offers recommendations for dandelion tincture dosage:
- For Maintaining General Health ~ 1/2 teaspoon twice daily.
- Acute Skin Eruptions ~ 10 drops in water frequently throughout the day.
- Arthritis, gout, eczema, psoriasis & liver trouble ~ 1 teaspoon 3 times a day in water.
- Indigestion ~ 10 drops in water every hour until resolved.
More About Dandelions
Check out thes other posts to get more information on dandelions and a great danedlion salve recioe,
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Sources:
Bruton-Seal, Julie. Backyard Medicine Updated & Expanded Second Edition: Harvest and Make Your Own Herbal Remedies Paperback. 2nd ed., New York, NY, Skyhorse Publishing, 2019.
Martinez M, Poirrier P, Chamy R, et al. Taraxacum officinale and related species-An ethnopharmacological review and its potential as a commercial medicinal plant. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;169:244-262. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2015.03.067
Disclaimer- I am not a medical professional. All information shared here is for information and entertainment only. Do your own research and consult your health care provider before treating yourself with any product, plant or mixture.
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