An ingredient of 'Bitters' as a digestive aid. Contains magnesium salts, sodium salts and silica. Contains the hormone gastrin. Called 'Dens Leonis' by the Romas and 'Dent De Lion' by the French. No less than 85 different insects banquet on its pollen and the bees use its nectar in their honey.
Seeds are also very appealing to song birds.
In the North country of England the folk have used the root in combination with burdock to make a beer which acts as a tonic and blood purifier. He's got some great recipes for this garden charm. Can also be made using fresh leaves and roots. Spread newspapers outside and empty flowers onto them giving the insects a chance to crawl away. Wash the flowers and place them in a crock.