Most people see the common dandelion as an invasive and annoying little weed that seems to spring up out of nowhere, but did you know that dandelions are actually an incredible natural medicine and source of food? Packed full of amazing nutrients, vitamins and earthy goodness, they are one of the most nutritious plants around.
Dandelions have been recorded throughout history as a useful and effective medicine to treat psoriasis, many blood disorders, anemia, eczema and depression.
They are jam packed with Vitamins A and C, potassium, iron, fiber, calcium, zinc, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus as well as being super rich in many trace minerals such as Vitamin K and Vitamin D. Pound for pound they have more protein than spinach!
Dandelion Health Benefits
Digestion
Dandelion can dramatically aid digestion and helps to balance out the good and bad bacteria within the stomach and the intestines and helps to stimulate appetite.
Dandelion is also a diuretic, stimulating urine production and aids the kidneys in excreting toxic waste and excess water. It also acts as a mild laxative by softening stools, thus aiding in constipation relief.
Protects Bones
Super rich in Vitamin K, dandelions can contain over 500 percent of your daily recommended intake. Vitamin K is a vital fat-soluble vitamin that is required by our bodies for bone mineralization. Studies have shown that Vitamin K is more efficient at building and strengthening bones than calcium!
Cleanses The Liver
Dandelions increase the liver’s production of superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant that help fight free-radical damage to cells and DNA, basically meaning that the aging process in our cells is slowed down!
Dandelion has also shown in studies to aid the liver function by helping remove harmful toxins within the body and providing an increased amount of electrolytes.
A 2017 study found that polysaccharides in dandelion are very beneficial to liver function.
Inflammation
Due to their plentiful amounts of essential fatty acids, phytonutrients, and antioxidants, dandelions are able to reduce and control inflammation and pain across many regions of the body, comparable to some harmful prescription medications and without the nasty side effects.
Cholesterol
Dandelion has the potential to lower and control cholesterol levels as shown in a number of studies carried out on animals.
Hight Blood Pressure
Super nutritious and rich in fiber and potassium, dandelions have lots of potential to help regulate blood pressure.
Immune System
Dandelion has a positive effect on our immune system and immune function. It can help fight off many microbes and bacteria and can be used topically to treat a wide variety of skin irritations.
How To Use Dandelions
Dandelions can be eaten raw and straight from the ground after a quick wash or sautéed in a frying pan at home. Many people also make dandelion tea. The roots are often used to make tea and boast the most impressive health benefits of the whole plant.
They contain very high levels of calcium, potassium and phosphorous and many of the antioxidants found in the roots can help to inhibit the growth of and induce death in cancer cells.
