✅What is Pu Gong Ying?Pu Gong Ying, also known as dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), is a traditional Chinese herb used to support liver detoxification, improve digestion, and clear skin conditions such as acne. It works by reducing internal heat and toxins through the Liver and Stomach meridians, and has been clinically shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic-support properties.
You’ve seen it growing between sidewalk cracks and sprinkled across spring lawns — but what if we told you this sunny little plant is one of the most powerful natural detoxifiers in Chinese herbal medicine?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Pu Gong Ying is treasured for its ability to cool internal heat, move toxins, and support liver health — benefits that modern research now links to acne reduction, better digestion, and even blood sugar regulation. From root to leaf, this misunderstood weed may just be the herbal upgrade your wellness routine needs.
In Western culture, people forgot dandelion’s historic medicinal use in both Native American and European herbalism.
In contrast, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) never stopped using it—classifying it under “Clear Heat and Resolve Toxicity” for skin, liver, and inflammatory conditions.
| Pin Yin Name | Pu Gong Ying (蒲公英) |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Taraxacum officinale |
| TCM Category | Clear Heat, Resolve Toxicity |
| Meridians | Liver, Stomach |
| Taste & Temp | Bitter, Sweet / Cold |
| Used Parts | Root and Leaf (dried, powdered, decocted) |
Stimulates bile production, promoting toxin elimination
May help relieve sluggish liver function, skin outbreaks, and hormonal imbalance
Clears internal heat and dampness, which often manifest as breakouts
Used in TCM for boils, abscesses, eczema, and red, irritated skin
Enhances digestion by promoting healthy bile flow
Helps with bloating, indigestion, and post-meal heaviness
May help stabilize post-meal blood glucose
Contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health and insulin response
Dandelion leaf supports fluid metabolism without depleting electrolytes
Gently eases water retention or puffiness
In TCM, Pu Gong Ying is a bitter-cold herb that:
Clears Heat and Toxins from the Liver and Stomach
Disperses swelling and abscesses
Moves Damp-Heat to reduce internal inflammation
Used for conditions like red acne, swollen lymph nodes, breast abscesses, and ulcers
| Form | Dosage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Decoction (root) | 6–15g/day | Simmer 30 min in water; best on empty stomach |
| Powder | 1–3g/day | Add to water, tea, or smoothies |
| Capsules/Extract | Per label | Choose GMP-certified source |
| Leaf (tea) | 2–4g | Mild diuretic; often blended with chrysanthemum or burdock |
Easy Liver-Skin Tea RecipeIngredients:
10g dandelion root
5g burdock root
3 slices fresh ginger
2 cups water
Directions:
Simmer for 25 minutes. Strain and enjoy warm 1–2x daily for gentle detox and skin clarity.
| Herb | Main Use | Why Combine With Dandelion |
|---|---|---|
| Milk Thistle | Liver regeneration | Dandelion detoxes, milk thistle rebuilds |
| Burdock Root | Skin health & lymph | Enhances skin-clearing synergy |
| Rehmannia | Nourishes yin | Balances dandelion's cool nature |
| Licorice | Harmonizing | Helps soften dandelion’s bitterness |
May cause allergic reaction in those sensitive to ragweed, daisies, or marigold
Avoid during pregnancy or bile duct obstruction
Monitor potassium if taking diuretics or managing kidney disease
Safe for most adults in tea or extract form when used as directed
A: Yes. In TCM, dandelion clears Liver Heat and Dampness, which often manifest as cystic or hormonal acne.
A: Yes. Many use dandelion root as a daily tea for digestion and gentle detox. Always check with your practitioner if taking medications.
A: Root is for liver and digestion. Leaf is for diuretic and fluid balance.
A: Dandelion may interact with lithium, antibiotics, or diuretics. Check with a licensed healthcare provider.
“I started drinking dandelion tea for digestion and detox. Within two weeks, my skin cleared and I felt lighter. I had no idea a weed could work this well.” — Maria H., Verified Buyer
Dandelion herb, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as Pu Gong Ying (蒲公英), is a powerful yet gentle detoxifier used to support liver function, skin health, digestion, and metabolic balance. Both the root and leaf are used—root for liver detox and digestion, leaf for natural diuretic effects.
In TCM, Pu Gong Ying clears internal heat and toxins through the Liver and Stomach meridians, making it effective for conditions like acne, eczema, bloating, and inflammatory disorders. Modern research confirms its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-modulating properties.
Commonly consumed as a tea, powder, or extract, dandelion is well-tolerated when used appropriately. However, individuals on diuretics, antibiotics, or with ragweed allergies should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Looking for pure, tested, premium dandelion?
Buy Organic Dandelion Root (Cut & Sifted) » See All Forms Below
Written by: Sarah Johnson, MS Holistic Herbalist
Reviewed by: Dr. Mei Len, DACM, Licensed TCM Herbalist
Last Updated: August 2025
Hepatoprotective effects in liver injury models
— PubMed: 27556481
Anti-inflammatory activity linked to antioxidant compounds like chicoric acid
— PubMed: 26959565
May improve glucose metabolism in diabetic models
— PubMed: 19797832
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