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Alterative, tonic, depurative, astringent, cathartic, antiscorbutic, anti-syphilitic, detergent, antiscrofulous, nutritive (leaves).
Yellow dock is considered to be the most medicinal variety of the dock family. The roots of yellow dock have been found to contain as much as 40 percent iron compounds, thereby making yellow dock one of the best blood builders in nature. It is very effective as a blood-purifier, and excellent for the lymphatic system. It is very valuable for all skin disorders and has therapeutic characteristics that are similar to sarsaparillas (Smilax officinalis) and turkey rhubarb (Rheum palmatum).
A 1-5 foot perennial, growing from a deep, yellow root. The alternate basal leaves are wavy edged & blue-gree. Leaves on the flower stalk, are similar to those at the base but half the size. The tall flower spikes of inconspicuous greenish flowers are followed by 3-winged fruits which turn dark brown in the fall. A common weed throughout North America in waste places & fields.
The young leaves can be used for cooked greens. If bitter, cook in 2 or more changes of water. They are rich in Vitamins A, C. It is a astringent, chologogue, & tonic. A tea of the leaves is used for fevers, inflammation & scurvy. The root tea is historically used for constipation or diarrhea, excessive mentrual bleeding, skin diseases, arthritis, indigestion, liver congestion, poor digestion, jaundice, skin eruptions, nervousness, a laxative, mild astringent, tonic, blood purifier & for skin problems. A decoction is made by boiling 1 teaspoon of the root in 1 cup of water. Take 1-2 cups a day. Use in small doses.
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