[Sca-cooks] Newbie question about dandelions

Terry Decker t.d.decker at worldnet.att.net
Tue Mar 11 09:23:08 PDT 2008


I believe you are incorrect in this statement.  Digitalis is mostly derived 
from digioxigenin (IIRC) found in members of genus Digitalis.

My notes show that dandelions contain caffeic acid which may cause renal 
problems and cancer when the roots are used as an infusion (dandelion 
coffee).  Dandelions can also interact with diuretics, diabetes medications 
(probably due to the inulin in the plant), and ulcer medications.

Reactions to the plant are commonly presistent stomach ache and/or constant 
diarrhea.  Occasionally there is an allergic reaction (skin rash, itching, 
etc.).

Milkweed contains alkaloids in the sap, ranging from irritating to extremely 
dangerous, depending on the species.  Digitalis is glycoside and , to my 
knowledge, not found in milkweed.

I would be interested in the source(s) of your information, since they 
contradict what I know and I am interested in determining why the 
contradiction occurs.

Bear

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Cindy Sorenson" <wolfhawke81 at hotmail.com>


An added note on this wondrous plant:  the greens are a very good source of 
vitamin C, but definitely use the young greens.  Dandelions fall into the 
category of 'poisonous' because the white milk contains digitalis - a heart 
stimulant.  Two others in this category are salsify and milkweed.

(another newbie quietly watching from the sidelines)





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