Yellow Dock Extract
Species Name: Rumex crispus
Also Known As: Curled Dock, Curly Dock, Yellow Dock Root, Sour Dock, Narrow Dock, narrow-leaved dock, and garden patience.
What is Yellow Dock:
Native to Europe and western Asia, Yellow Dock is a perennial flowering plant that has been naturalized in much of the temperate regions of Australia, New Zealand, and much of North and South America.
Yellow Dock grows freely in roadside ditches. The leaves of this plant are curled and six to ten inches long.
The plant produces multiple clusters of three-winged flowers.
The roots of the Yellow Dock are the part of the plant that is used medicinally and are eight to twelve inches long, about 1/2 an inch thick.
The root is fleshy, a rusty brown outside color and a bright yellow below the thick root bark.
Benefits and Uses of Yellow Dock Extract
Yellow Dock Extract is made from the dried root of the plant. It is typically available in capsule, tea, and tincture form.
Historically, Yellow Dock was used to treat several symptoms and illnesses including constipation and diarrhea, dermatitis and venereal diseases. It was also used as a mouthwash and toothpaste.
Today, Yellow Dock Extract is mainly used in the treatment of constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids and minor skin wounds.
Yellow dock extract is rich in iron and works as a blood cleanser, because of this it is often recommended for anemia and chronic skin disorders.
Yellow Dock Extract works as a gentle laxative aiding in digestion. It relieves constipation by stimulating peristalsis and the gallbladder.
Yellow Dock Extract may also be recommended for nasal and lung congestion.
Scientific research has been done on the compounds contained in the Yellow Dock roots.
These compounds have been clinically verified to bind with heavy metals like lead and arsenic, and then the compound expels them from the body by stimulating biliary liver function.
Side Effects of Yellow Dock Extract:
Yellow Dock Extract has not been proven safe for pregnant or nursing women, young children, or those with severe liver or kidney disease.
Any laxative should not be taken if there is an intestinal obstruction and Yellow Dock works as a laxative.
With overuse, possible side effects include cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and dependence on laxatives.
Yellow Dock extract contains oxalates and should not be used in excess, especially for those with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones and hyperacidity.
