Lots of people consider the dandelion as an irritating useless weed, but did you know that it is in fact full of vitamins A, B, C, and D, as well as minerals like zinc, potassium and iron? The leaves of dandelion are added to sandwiches, salads and teas to enhance flavor. Its flowers are used in making wines and its roots as substitute for coffee.

In olden times, the roots and leaves of dandelions were used in treating liver problems. While the Native Americans boiled dandelion and drink it in treating kidney problems, heartburn, upset stomach, swelling and skin problems. Dandelion is also used in traditional Chinese medicine in treating appendicitis, lack of milk among lactating mothers, breast inflammation and stomach problems. In Europe, dandelions were used as treatment for boils, diabetes, eye problems, diarrhea and fever.

Nowadays, the roots of the dandelion are used in stimulating the appetite and for problems in the liver and gallbladder. Moreover, the leaves of dandelions are used as a form of diuretic to rid the excess fluid in the human body.

Plant Description

In the temperate regions around Asia, Europe and North America, hundreds of dandelion species thrive. The dandelion is a hardy plant that can reach up to 12 inches in growth. Dandelions are deeply notched, toothy, hairless, and has spatula-like leaves that are shiny. The stems of the dandelions are capped with bright yellow flowers. Its leaves that have grooves act as a funnel during rainy days.

Dandelion flowers open during the rising of the sun in and close at night time or during a gloomy weather. The roots of the dandelions are dark brown in color, fleshy, brittle and are filled with a substance that is white, milky, smelly, and has a bitter taste.

The Benefits of Dandelions

Digestive Aid →Dandelion can be used as a mild laxative to help stimulate appetite, promote digestion and balance the natural good bacteria in the intestine.

Kidney →This superfood acts as a diuretic that aids the kidneys in eliminating waste, excess water and salt. It can also stop the growth of microbes in the urinary system.

Liver →Dandelion has also been proven to help reestablish hydration and electrolyte imbalance and improve the liver function by means of the removal of toxins.

Antioxidants →Each part of the plant is high in antioxidants that inhibit free-radical damage to the DNA and cells, thus resulting to slow aging process of our cells.

Cancer →Dandelion helps in preventing the spread of cancer and slow down its growth. The leaves of the dandelions are rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants which are great in combating cancer.

Diabetes →Recent research on animals have shown potential that the dandelions aid in regulating insulin levels and blood sugar.

High Blood Pressure →dandelions acts as a diuretic, it increases the rate of urination which results to low blood pressure. The fiber and potassium found in dandelions can help control blood pressure.

Cholesterol →Studies conducted on animals have shown that dandelions helps in lowering and maintaining cholesterol levels.

Gallbladder →Dandelions can help in increasing the production of bile and lowers inflammation to aid with gallbladder blockages and problems.

Inflammation →Dandelions have essential fatty acids and phytonutrients that help in reducing inflammation anywhere in the body; it is helpful in relieving swelling and pain.

Immune System →Studies on animals have also shown that dandelions improve the immune function and fend off fungi and microbes.

The leaves, flowers and roots of the dandelions are all edible. Although they a slight bitter taste, it can be minimized by harvesting the dandelions during the fall or spring. Cooking them can also help take out the bitter flavor, and leaves are great for adding to raw salads.

Dandelion is considered safe for eating and medicinal purposes, though a few people do have allergic reactions to the plant. People who are allergic to chrysanthemum, chamomile, daisy, ragweed, marigold or yarrow, they must avoid dandelion. For pregnant and nursing women or those taking medications, they must consult the advice of health care professionals first prior to putting something new in their diet.