Yellow dock is often described as helping strengthen the blood; however, very few laboratory or human studies have been conducted to confirm this traditional use.

Yellow dock is one of the original plants in the Native American anticancer herbal formula now known as Essiac®. In some versions of Essiac® yellow dock is substituted for the sheep's sorrel.

The roots have been taken internally to build healthy blood, protect the liver, or act as an antifungal or laxative. As a seed tea, yellow dock may heal mouth sores and help diarrhea. Externally, yellow dock has been used to dissolve lumps and as an antitumor and antifungal. Yellow dock root (herb and salad green) is an astringent that has been banned in Canada.

Curled dock, curley dock, curly dock, Polygonaceae (family), Rumex crispus, Rumex obtusifolius, yellow dock root.

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.