Dandelion root is known to be an excellent blood cleanser, specifically for the liver, as well as a mild laxative. The roots are slightly more diuretic when harvested in the spring and more for the liver when harvested in the fall. Dandelion is a slow,but excellent liver cleanser. It is not used for fast dramatic liver action, but as aconstant slow liver cleanser. Drinking a cup of dandelion ‘coffee’ once a day for 1 - 12 months can do wonders for the liver. It will also tone up the hepatic structure, remove liver ‘stagnation’, improve digestion, decongest the portal system and remove problems resulting from ‘heat’ rising to the skin.

Dandelion also works on the lymphatic system, especially removing damp heat. When the stomach or bowels are irritable, it should not be employed. In Chinese medicine, it is considered one of the best remedies for reducing ‘liver fire’ and ‘fire poison’ (abscesses, boils, sores etc.). It is most often used for slow lingering heat, not fast hot heat. Michael Moore says it is specific for skin conditions, wheezy lungs, colon congestion and “leaky gut syndrome.”