The secret medicinal power of dandelion

Next time you decide to get rid of dandelion in your back garden, read our article which explains the numerous health advantages of dandelion tea. Maybe being aware of the benefits will change your attitude towards dandelion. You may even stop considering it a nuisance and start honouring it as a powerful medicinal plant.

In Chinese Medicine, dandelions have been used to detox the liver and to restore chi within the body. It is thought that depression and anger originate from the liver and that dandelions help to clear up these feelings. Chinese traditional medicine has also used dandelion to treat a multitude of ailments, ranging from tumours, haemorrhoids, mumps to pneumonia. The health advantages come from consuming the entire plant, including its roots.

In Ayurveda, dandelion is used to rid the body of waste. Similar to the beliefs of Chinese Medicine, dandelion is thought to improve clogged up energy by improving bile flow and cleaning the gallbladder and liver. Ayurvedic medicine employs dandelion as a tonic which cools the body and combats infection and chronic health conditions, including cancer.
Around the world, dandelion is known as a potent liver tonic. Dandelion is used to produce a pharmaceutical product for treating gallstones and liver issues.

As the liver performs such an important function for our body, many health problems improve when our liver function is fully restored. For instance, menstrual issues may improve, as the liver gets rid of unnecessary hormones. Women suffering from menopause benefit from consuming dandelion roots which contain phytosterols which prevent hot flashes.
Furthermore, dandelion leaves are a naturally diuretic whilst the roots are a fantastic blood purifier. Dandelion leaf tea is one of the best natural diuretics which helps the body to lose excess weight and nourishes the kidneys by ridding them of accumulated toxins. Hence, dandelion tea can help with weight reduction. Dandelion stimulates bile production which in turn facilitates digestion.

Dandelion tea can be consumed by pregnant women. It is rich in calcium and vitamin A and helps with swelling, a common issue during pregnancy. It is a good pregnancy tonic. However, due to its diuretic properties it should only be consumed in small quantities.
Moreover, dandelion tea is good for those struggling with gout, a type of arthritis caused by inflammation and high levels of uric acid. Dandelion tea can possibly reduce uric acid build up and thereby diminish pain.
Dandelion tea, especially with the ground up roots, is remarkably effective in combating major ailments, such as pneumonia, and even boils. Anaemia is another condition which dandelion tea can effectively combat due to its high vitamin and mineral, including iron, density.
Acne vulgaris may be helped when dandelion tea is regularly consumed. When the liver is purified, skin impurities improve. Hypertension might be relieved. The roots and leaves contain mannitol, an essential compound which is successfully used to treat elevated blood pressure level symptoms. Accordingly, diabetic patients or people suffering from elevated blood sugar can particularly find relief by drinking dandelion tea. The organic compounds found in the dandelion plant normalise blood sugar levels.

Besides, dandelion tea benefits vision by providing the body with essential A and B vitamins which are necessary for good eye sight and night vision. The beta-carotene found in dandelion leaves is transposed into 11-cis retinal. This chemical compound is the major element of the important protein, rhodopsin, which our retina requires. Chinese medicine also advocates consuming dandelion leaves to treat conjunctivitis and styes.

The raw leaves can also be used to prepare a healthy and delicious salad. Just finely chop the leaves and add some lemon juice and olive oil or any other vegetables, such as tomatoes and avocado.

Some people may experience side effects when consuming dandelion tea, such as gastric discomfort. Some may be allergic to dandelion, just like they are allergic to chamomile and ragweed plants. If this is the case, stop taking dandelion. Medications may interact with the compounds found in dandelion and it is best to consult a doctor.

The FDA hasn't assessed the statements. The information is provided for informational purposes only. It's not intended to substitute medical advice or diagnosis by your doctor or other medical professionals. These herbs and products aren't meant to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any illness. Please always consult your healthcare professional.