Medicine?

to breakdown and digest our food more efficiently. Dandelion root offers safe and gentle support for a sluggish digestive system, and is useful for relieving symptoms like bloating and constipation.

Ways to take dandelion

Fresh, young dandelion leaves can be washed and added into soups, stews and salads. Just be sure to pick them from an area which has not been sprayed with weed killer or other chemicals. Dried dandelion leaf can be bought as tea bags or as loose tea. Use 1tsp of loose dandelion leaf to make each mug of tea, drink up to three cups a day for a medicinal effect.

Dandelion roots are normally dug up when the plants are two years old. The roots are dried and then roasted in the oven. Roasted dandelion roots are then used to make a decoction: boil a tablespoon of dandelion root in water for 5 to 10 minutes, strain and then drink black or with milk. Roasted dandelion root can easily be found for sale online. Dandelion decoction is useful wherever the liver needs support, for example for skin issues or poor digestion.

Dandelion leaf or root can also be bought as a tincture. This is an extract of the plant in alcohol. Tinctures are stronger than teas or decoctions so smaller doses can be taken, usually 2.5ml to 5ml in a little water once or twice daily, or as directed on the bottle.

Dandelion leaf and root are generally very safe as herbal medicines, but it is always sensible to check with your local herbalist or health care provider before self-prescribing, particularly if you are already taking some medicines or have complex health issues.

Ellie Holly is a highly qualified and experienced Medical Herbalist and Nutritional Therapist. She has over twenty years experience treating patients with a wide range of health conditions. She also teaches nutrition at the City Lit in Covent Garden. She is opening a clinic in Hurst Green this spring. Ellie offers a free ten minute telephone appointment to all new patients so you can find out how herbal medicine or nutrition may help you. Contact Ellie on 07949463288 or email ellie@ hollyhealthcare.co.uk or visit her website: www.hollyhealthcare.co.uk