Found in temperate regions in the planet, dandelion or common dandelion is a flowering perennial plant valued for its culinary and medicinal benefits. It is famous for its round balls of silver from its yellow flower heads that scatter when the wind blows, hence gaining the name blowballs. Some may consider it as a weed but for some it is one of the many miraculous plants for it medicinal value in herbal medicine. And case in point, can one use Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) to treat anal fissure?
As food, the flowers of the dandelion are made into dandelion wine or jam. It is also a leaf vegetable. The greens or young leaves are used in salads and it can also be cooked to make soups or stew. Hard boiled eggs are usually added to the dandelion salad. Dandelion is rich with essential nutrients making it ideal as part of a healthy diet. It is a good source of beta-carotene, vitamins A, B, C and D, and important minerals like potassium, zinc and calcium. It is also said to have more iron than spinach.
Perhaps it is safe to say that using Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) to treat anal fissure is a bit misleading because if the plant is taken as part of a healthy meal, it can lower the risk of getting constipation which might cause anal fissure. Repeated episodes of diarrhea could also cause anal fissure. When you pass large or unusually hard stool, you tear the special lining in the anal canal to the anus. This crack causes pain during and after bowel movement as well as rectal bleeding. To use Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) to treat anal fissure, one has to discuss with one’s physician the possible side effects if taken with medications for the treatment of anal fissure.
There is a long list of health benefits said to have gained from the use of the plant. But there is yet to be found enough scientific evidence to fully support these claims. In herbal medicine, the plant is used to treat intestinal gas, digestive disorders, joint and muscle pains, bile and liver problem, gallstones, eczema and bruises. It is also used to fight infections and as a laxative, sometimes even used to increase one’s appetite. But what dandelion is known for especially in Canada is its use as diuretic. It can also be used as a remedy for wart while its sap could be used as a mosquito repellent.
Relating to its poison content, dandelions have been found to have low none which makes it safe as a tea even on a regular basis. But the plant has contraindications when you are taking blood thinners like clopidrogel, aspirin and warfarin. It might increase your risk of bleeding. When used as diuretic, refrain from taking other prescription diuretics to prevent risk of electrolyte imbalance. If you are allergic to ragweed, marigold daisies and yarrow, you might also be allergic to dandelions. Some suffer allergic reaction when they touch the plant.
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