The roots have been used for centuries to treat jaundice. Dandelion also acts as a mild laxative and improves appetite and digestion. It is useful for eczema-like skin problems, boils, and abscesses, and is believed to help prevent age spots and breast cancer. Read more about dandelion. From Prescription for Herbal Healing by Phyllis Balch, Copyright © January, 2002, Avery Books, a member of Penguin Putnam, Inc., used by permission.