Dandelion Root with Burdock

Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale)

Digestive effects - Dandelion comes under the category of a bitter herb. It is believed that the bitter principles stimulate the initial phase of digestion, this involves the release of salivary and gastric juices. It is also involved in stimulating the release of bile from the liver and gallbladder.
Liver effects - The effect of Dandelion on bile flow is two fold.
Cholerectic effect - Affects liver directly by causing an increase in bile production and flow to the gallbladder.
Chologogue effect - Exerts a direct effect on the gallbladder, causing contraction and the release of stored bile. The high choline content of the root may be a major factor in dandelion's ability to act as a liver tonic.
Diuretic and weight loss effects - Dandelion has a confirmed diuretic action. Because dandelion replaces potassium lost through diuresis, it does not have some of the potential side effects of other diuretic drugs, such as hepatic coma and circulatory collapse.
Pre-menstrual syndrome - Dandelion's gentle action on the liver, especially its lipotropic action can be put to good use in the clearance of Oestrogen and other hormones from the liver. If dandelion can improve the liver's ability to detoxify these hormones, symptoms may be improved.

Burdock (Arctium Lappa)

In western medicine herbalists consider the root of Burdock the most important part.
Detoxifying - It is used primarily as a cleansing and an eliminative remedy, especially effective when there is a build up of toxins.
Skin - Burdock has shown to be helpful in alleviating certain skin disorders, such as dry or scaly skin - psoriasis and eczema. This positive affect may be due to its anti-microbial action.
Digestion - The bitter glycosides within this herb may also enhance digestion. This bitter principle has shown to effectively stimulate the digestive juices (gastric) as well as promoting the production of bile.
Appetite - This herb has been used with some success in eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa because of its ability to aid digestion as well as stimulate appetite.
Anti-inflammatory - Burdock is also purported to have an effect as an anti-inflammatory. Especially in arthritic conditions where there is a connection with psoriasis.

Dosage

350mg of the combined herbs (one capsule) 1-3 times daily.

Potential applications

Conditions where toxicity exists, specifically aimed to support the liver. Helpful in conditions that may be subject to a sluggish liver and bacterial infection of the skin. Useful in skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema, as well as more general dermatological problems. Beneficial in the detoxification of excess oestrogen via the liver. This is often relevant in pre-menstrual syndrome or other high oestrogen conditions such as fibroids. Eating disorders such as anorexia or general poor appetite may be stimulated by the action of the combination of these herbs.

Known contraindications

Dandelion has been shown to have extremely low side effects and is considered safe in very high doses. No known contra-indications known for Burdock.

Interactions

None known.

Use in conjunction with

Can be used with other treatments for PMS i.e. Magnesium, B6, Agnus Castus, Dong Quai, EFAs. Helpful in a skin support programme such as Psoriasis, Eczema. Use alongside Zinc, Vitamin A, and Quercetin.

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