This flower commonly seen on roadsides, is Chicory (Cichorium intybus). The root is used similarly to Dandelion in that it can help alleviate liver congestion, increase bile movement, and therefore help the bowels to move more easily.
Also like dandelion, it can be used like a coffee substitute when the roots are roasted. It is an ingredient found in Teeccino, Cafix, Caflib and Pero products which are sometimes found in the coffee section of your grocery store or in health food stores. But too much chicory can also cause problems in the abdomen and head from venous congestion, so use it modestly.
Grieve’s Modern Herbal has an wonderful monograph about Chicory that I couldn’t possible do justice to here because it uses terms like bilious torpor and pulmonary consumption. I love old timey terms! http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/chicor61.html#par
Jen Williamson, ND is a native of Buffalo, New York who earned her Bachelor of Science at Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania and a Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona. While in medical school, she became very involved in the student community, most notably as the President of the Student Government Association. For her service, upon graduation she was given the Outstanding Leadership Award.
In the spirit of Docere, the Naturopathic principle of the doctor’s role as teacher, Dr. Williamson was an adjunct professor in the Complementary and Alternative Therapies program at Daemen College. She has had articles in a variety of publications, including Naturopathic Doctor News and Review, SheKnows.com, local Buffalo magazines and papers, as well as her own newsletter, blog and website. While practicing in Buffalo, she also offered over 30 different classes to the public at various events and locations.
In 2012, Dr. Williamson moved to Vermont to expand her practice of Naturopathic Medicine as well as provide an atmosphere that resonates with her medicine for her son, Victor, and husband, David. As a Primary Care Physician at Avalon Natural Medicine, Dr. Williamson focuses on mental/emotional, gastrointestinal, and endocrine disorders. Most of her treatment plans include a combination of nutritional, herbal and homeopathic remedies, but she has also received additional training in Hair Trace Mineral Analysis and Bowel Nosodes.