Tonic Herb of the Month
Dandelion

Dandelion

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Parts Used: Root, leaf, flower

Actions: Diuretic, hepatic, cholagogue, antirheumatic, laxative, tonic bitter

Energetics: Cooling, drying

Indications: All parts of Dandelion have long historical uses but here we will talk about the leaves and the roots. Do keep in mind that many of the qualities of both root and leaf are interchangeable. Starting with the root, there is direct action on the liver and gallbladder. Dandelion aids these organs in their job of detoxifying the body. When there is fluid retention in the body, such as edema, gout or rheumatism, we know the kidneys need support and the diuretic action of Dandelion will assist. In this case we look to Dandelion leaf.

Signs of liver and gallbladder disturbance, such as skin eruptions and skin with a yellowish hue, point to Dandelion root. Keep this in mind for chronic complaints of acne and eczema. Dandelion also contains high amounts of calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorous and vitmains A, B, C and D. This “weed” was, and still is, one of our most popular wild foods with uses ranging from coffee substitute, delicious salad green to being used in brewing beer and wine.

This plant is so resilient and strong it grows up through city sidewalks and survives extreme chemical assault from pristine lawn keepers. It helps us to be more resilient as well. As a bitter, Dandelion aids the digestive system by increasing digestive enzymes and enhancing absorption. In early spring pick your Dandelion greens and eat them in salads. The bitter greens will help detoxify your body from a rich and heavy winter diet. Dandelion is a beloved herbal ally that is often overlooked. Yet it is one of the first herbs we learn to identify as children and one of the most commonly known plants to humans across the world.

Preparation: Chop and eat young roots and leaves in a variety of dishes. Make a decoction of the root by using 2-3 tsp of dried root per 1 cup of water, bring to a boil and then simmer for 10-15 mins, drink freely. Tincture root in 100 P. vodka if fresh or 80 P. brandy if dried, dose is 2.5 – 5 ml, 3x day.

*Dandelion is a diuretic and will increase urination.

You can find Dandelion root in our Carob Cafe and Liver Tonic Tea

UPCOMING EVENTS

Downtown Cozy Crawl Specials: 

November 7- 22

Tonic will be offering Kava Chai during these days AND on Fridays Nov. 7th, 14th & 21st our friend Terrie will be in the store with her crystal bowls offering complimentary sound baths in the store from 4-6 pm. Stop in to sip on a relaxing cup of kava, surrounded by soothing sounds and spicy scents, and take comfort in the moment of suspended chaos.

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Community Medicine Making Circles

with Jen Halima  

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Next one: November 22nd

Aromatic Herbal Incense

Together we’ll explore all the sweet and spicy scented plant that can be harvested locally.  Scent is a beautiful place to linger and explore, a simple way to transform a space, a mood… a call to presence. As we settle inside for the winter months make herbal burn bundles and incense cones. You’ll take home a few incense cones and an herbal burn bundle.

Register Here

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Grounded Sound Bath

Saturday November 29th & Saturday December 20th

6:00 pm

Connect with Mother Earth as you immerse yourself in the soothing sound of crystal and Tibetan singing bowls and other meditative instruments for a deeply relaxing & healing inward journey. Join for one or both of the sessions. Grounding mats provided.

Register Here

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Plant Allies for Stress, Depression, and Fatigue

with Kat Maier

Saturday January 31st, 2026, 10am – 5pm

The season of winter is a time of hibernation and restoration. This class will share ancient as well as new medicines for restoring our balance and providing deep resilience for the body, mind, and soul. We will also acknowledge February 1, known as Candlemas, a Celtic celebration honoring the return of light. We will learn practical and easy-to-follow teas and recipes to strengthen our immunity for the times that lie ahead.
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Sunday Morning Tea Ceremonies

with Silvy Franco

Join Silvy for a meditative ceremony to commune with Camelia sinensis. Come for quiet reflection as you sip on several cups of tea following Japanese tradition. Ceremony begins at 9:30 am and goes for an hour. Pre-registration is required.

Suggested Donation: $25

Register Here