Dandelions for Skincare: The Story Continues

August 5, 2020Lise

People with gardens (and particularly lawns) might look at the blossom in the picture up there and think ‘useless and annoying weed’, but herbalists know better. They immediately recognize a beneficial plant that is a useful source for some medical conditions and ailments.

Taraxacum officinale (that's the botanical as well as INCI name for dandelions) are

antioxidative
anti-inflammatory
antimicrobial (to some degree)
diuretic
and a tonic

Even science says these plants ‘warrant further study'.

Science usually says this kind of thing when it finds evidence that some of the claims aren't all wishful thinking from enthusiastic plant-loving geeks.

And it's true: there is hidden treasure in this multifunctional plant.

Which Part is Best

You might be surprised to learn every last bit of this plant - from tip to root - has nutrients and beneficial qualities that can both nourish and help heal. The most recent scientific articles I have been able to source are focused on which part of the plant has the most to offer in the way of actives. Some studies are focused on the root, others are examining flowers while leaves & stems are a third area of interest.

Optimal harvesting time is even under study, as there is a measurably higher concentration of nutrients in certain parts of the plant at certain times of year/in a season.

Methods of Extraction

The most efficient method of extraction is also being examined. Ethanol extraction seems to be getting the most attention, although there are a few scientific souls looking into oil extraction/maceration.

If you want to see where I've been digging around for information, check the links below.

Dandelion Balm Experiment

I’ve been working with my own batches of handcrafted extracts using leaves & stems and/or blossoms - both wild-harvested and purchased - with an increased interest over the past couple of years.

Combining infused oils of the different plant parts with other plant-based ingredients can make a wonderful synergy of herbal components.

My dandelion balms have been quite effective for my (and my testers) minor aches and pains. For me, the main interest has been soothing tired aching feet that have been standing too long after a day in the lab.

My testers have been equally positive, and although I can’t claim miracles and magical disappearance of all aches pains, and ailments, I can say the response has been positive enough to where I keep making batches.