"Yellow Dock Can Relieve Many Digestive Problems Such As Constipation"

Yellow dock has seen a rich history of use as a treatment for a number of conditions. For years, herbalists have recommended it for such varied conditions as syphilis, menstrual disorders and anemia.

Although the scientific evidence for many of these reputed claims is limited, it does have several therapeutic uses, primarily related to the digestive system, skin disorders and liver function.

The primary role of yellow dock is that of a mild laxative. It contains relatively small amounts of two chemicals that function as laxatives, when taken in larger doses.

In fact, it contains much higher levels of these two chemicals then the same substances that are found in therapeutic rhubarb.

It can help provide relief from many additional digestive disorders.

For example. it has seen use as a treatment for conditions such as bowel infections and peptic ulcers.

It can also function as a digestive aid.

For many years, it has been used as a treatment for a number of skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, poison ivy and rashes.

When used in conjunction with other cleansing herbs, such as burdock and dandelion, it becomes particularly effective in eliminating toxic substances from the body.

This makes it easier to deal with conditions such as acne, boils, eczema and psoriasis

Like many other plants, yellow dock contains large amounts of tannins.

Tannins have astringent qualities, making them useful in treating minor skin wounds and hemorrhoids.

One of the functions of the liver is the secretion of bile.

First of all, bile is secreted by the liver, stored in the gallbladder and subsequently excreted into the intestines. There it helps with the digestion of dietary fat and the removal of waste products.

Yellow dock can assist with the digestive process and the removal of wastes, by stimulating the production of bile and digestive fluids.

Another condition that is associated with the liver is jaundice.

When the liver is functioning properly, it produces adequate amounts of bile.

One of the components of bile is a waste product known as bilirubin. If inadequate amounts of bile are produced, bilirubin levels are increased in the blood.

When this happens, an individual's skin will turn yellow, which is known as the condition called jaundice.

As this herb assists with the production of bile, it helps to prevent this condition from occurring.

It helps to minimize levels of uric acid in the body, which, in excess levels, is the cause of gout.

Here are a few other conditions that it is reputed to treat:

• Fibroid Tumors
• Anemia
• Headaches
• Emphysema
• Asthma or Bronchitis
• Fungal Infections
• Vaginitis

A tea that is made from the root of this herb can be an effective remedy for constipation.

To make a tea, boil one quart of water, reduce the heat and add 1 cup of fresh or the dehydrated form of this herb.

Cover the container and let simmer around 10 minutes.

It may be sweetened with honey, and drank as often as four times daily for relief from constipation.

This decoction can also be applied to the skin for problems such as itching and inflammation.

A syrup that is made from yellow dock is also an effective treatment for numerous respiratory problems such as emphysema.

To make a syrup, take a pint of distilled water; boil 1/2 pound of the root of this plant until the liquid has evaporated to approximately 1 cupful.

Strain the liquid, and throw away the boiled root.

Add 1/2 cup of dark honey, 1/2 cup of blackstrap molasses and 1 teaspoon of pure maple syrup to the liquid. A pinch of vanilla may also be added to enhance its taste.

Blend these ingredients by hand until you achieve a smooth thick liquid. This may be taken 1 teaspoon at a time for bronchitis, asthma or congestion in the lungs.

Although, in my opinion, yellow dock is not quite the cure-all that many herbalists claim it to be, it does have some therapeutic value.

It has shown promise as a home remedy for many digestive problems, liver conditions and gout, making it a useful treatment for these conditions.