Dandelions get a pretty bad rap in the garden. While some see them as a pesky weed that needs to be pulled or sprayed, in reality these self pollinating herbs are packed with amazing health benefits and worthy of a second look.
Tidbits About Dandelion
The Latin name “Leontodon taraxacum” was given to the dandelion plant in 1753 by Linnaeus. The Greek version was taken from the French word “dent de lion” and transcribed to “Leontodon” meaning ‘lion’s tooth’.
The dandelion plant is so useful medicinally that the generic name is thought to be derived from the Greek taraxos, meaning “disorder,” and akos, meaning “remedy” (Longe 2005).
Dandelion is part of the Asteraceae family of plants. Other members of the Asteraceae family include the aster, daisy and sunflower. Dandelion has a solo yellow flower head which gives way to a ball shaped cluster that is blown loose in the breeze or sometimes by a child making a wish. The plumes can spread over a great distance.
Dandelion plants can literally be used in all forms: the roots, the leaves and the flowers. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals the dandelion is an excellent herb and vegetable to include in your diet. For instance, dandelion can be consumed as a leafy green, raw or cooked, made into tea from the leaves or roots and wine or jam from the flowers.
Health Benefits of Dandelion
Liver Detoxification
Dandelion root is a known liver detoxifier because it contains a bitter compound named taraxacerin which increases the level of bile flow released by the gallbladder. This helps the liver to detoxify more easily. Dandelion leaf helps to reduce insulin resistance and reduce fat accumulation in the liver. Because of the high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients it is a good blood purifier as well, increasing the health of the liver.
Diuretic
In cases where circulation is compromised there is a need to aid the body in the removal of excess water in the system. Dandelion, being a natural diuretic can be very beneficial in these cases. Additionally, Broom, Lilly of the Valley and Yarrow are good compliments to Dandelion for this use. Mainstream diuretics can cause a potassium deficiency aggravating heart problems. Therefore substituting with Dandelion is helpful. Dandelion has a very high level of natural potassium giving it immense value as an alternative to chemical diuretics.
Female Hormone Balance
Because dandelion increases bile production in the liver it is helpful for breaking down estrogen and progesterone byproducts to remove them from the body normally through excretion. This helps to balance the hormones naturally alleviating many uncomfortable symptoms such as PMS, hot flashes and urinary tract infections.
Clearer Skin
- Antioxidants in dandelion make for a great topical application. The antioxidants fight free radicals giving the skin a clear glowing complexion.
- The minerals magnesium, zinc, potassium and phosphorus detoxify the skin and have anti-inflammatory properties to calm inflammation.
- Vitamins B, C, E and K nourish your body from the inside out giving you a youthful glow.
- Anti-fungal and germicidal properties in dandelion fight infections, itching and bacteria for clearer looking skin.
- Eating dandelion greens creates an alkaline environment for better overall health and better looking skin.
Blood Sugar Balancer
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that:
“Preliminary animal studies suggest that dandelion may help normalize blood sugar levels and lower total cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL (good) cholesterol in diabetic mice. Researchers need to see if dandelion will work in people. A few animal studies also suggest that dandelion might help fight inflammation.”
How to Use Dandelion
The entire plant of the dandelion herb can be used for teas.
- Flowers of the dandelion plant can be used for making tea or wine.
- Leaves can be brewed into a tea.
- Roots are used for a stronger more medicinal tea.
The green leaves of the dandelion plant can be eaten.
- Raw leaves can be substituted or added to other salad greens in salads.
- Leaves can be sautéed or cooked much the same as collard or mustard greens.
The roots and leaves can be used in poultices.
- The roots and leaves made into a poultice is useful for abscesses and sores.
- Works well combined with Myrrh.
Precautions
If you’ll be wild harvesting your dandelion please take these precautions.
- Avoid areas where pets may have relieved themselves.
- Avoid areas that could potentially have been sprayed with herbicides and pesticides.
Check with your doctor before consuming any herb. If you are prone to allergies dandelion may prove to be problematic for you.
Get a FREE Printable of Dandelion Herb Profile HERE.
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Disclaimer
The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to bolstering and strengthening the body and as a natural, chemical free way to treat disease. Always keep in mind that herbs can trigger side effects and interact with supplements, medications or other herbs,. Herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a qualified herbalist or doctor well versed in the field of botanical medicine.
I am not a doctor and do not claim to be. I am a seeker of pure, healthful living. Always talk with your doctor or qualified health care professional before taking any herbal remedies to ensure safety, especially if you are already on medications. The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. None of these statements are intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always consult with your medical practitioner or other qualified healthcare provider.