Yellow Dock

Yellow dock is derived from a weed native to Europe and Asia which also now grows in the United States. Some Europeans eat it as a vegetable and Asians have long used dried yellow dock to treat rashes and external inflammation.

Yellow dock treatments

Herbalists today recognize yellow dock as a treatment for skin conditions like psoriasis, acne, herpes and eczema. Intestinal discomfort can be eased with yellow dock and it has laxative properties. People have been known to include yellow dock in formulas for enemas and douches.

Yellow dock dosage

Yellow dock can be used as a powder and applied to rashes and sores for relief. For inflammation a patient can also make a potent tea or take a pill.

As a pill a daily dose of 2.5 to 5 milligrams is effective, depending on the severity of symptoms.

In a tea, combine an ounce of yellow dock with burdock roots, sarsaparilla root, red clover and stillingia. Drink three cups of this tea daily. This should help combat psoriasis, eczema and acne.

Side effects and precautions

Yellow dock causes mild discomforts such as nausea, diarrhea (due to its laxative effects) or stomach pains. Report any problems to your doctor or herbalist immediately.

Excessive amounts of yellow dock harms the blood by decreasing iron or causing blood acid disorder. These conditions can be fatal if not promptly treated.

Using yellow dock while pregnant may cause miscarriage. It should also be avoided while breast feeding. If you were using yellow dock around conception, tell your doctor.

Yellow dock may cause dizziness or deplete blood calcium. People with heart disease, kidney disorders and diabetes should also avoid yellow dock.

Modern research

Make sure to use yellow dock sparingly and cease use if any side effects occur. Yellow dock has not been endorsed by any medical research, though it has shown some promise as a topical anti-inflammatory, though doctors are unsure why.