Shelf Life of Dandelion Root Powder

About Dandelion Root Powder

• Taraxacum officinale, or common dandelion, grows in every state in the U.S. and is an invasive weed with bright yellow flowers and broad leaves. Its thick, tapered root can grow up to 6 inches in length. The leaves and root of the plant contain the important vitamins A, C, D and B-complex, along with several minerals such as magnesium, iron and potassium. You can harvest the roots yourself in the spring or early summer, which is when they provide the best nutritional value.

Uses

• Commonly used in folk remedies for a number of ailments, including use as a diuretic, dandelion root powder helps stimulate urination and at the same time replaces the potassium lost with its rich stores of the mineral. The root powder stimulates the liver and gallbladder to rid the body of waste. It works as a blood purifier by restoring balance and nutrients in the blood.

Storage

• Dandelion root powder keeps best when you store it in a dark, dry place. Keep it in a sealed container in a pantry that is not too close to a stove or vents. When stored properly, dandelion root powder lasts up to one year.

Precautions

• You should not use dandelion root powder if you have gallbladder problems or gall stones. If you have an allergy to the daisy flower family, you need to use caution with dandelion root powder.