Dandelion's Benefits to the Body

One little known song asks the question, "How many dandelions this year will grow?" Indeed, many find this weed a nuisance and do whatever they can to get rid of it. However, you may regret doing this when you learn the benefits of this wild plant.

It is officially Taraxacum officinale but commonly called dandelion. The name comes from the French words 'dent de lion,' that mean 'lion's tooth.' This is a reference to the jagged-edged leaves. Dandelion in your yard is identical to the herb with so many benefits. Let's see what some of them are.

All the dandelion plant is useful. The roots can be eaten as vegetables or roasted and ground to make a type of root "coffee." A cursory look through the internet reveals the flowers are used to make wine, in cooking (dandelion flower cookies?), a syrup, jam, and an oil to rub on sore joints. But the leaves have the most diverse list of uses.

Dandelion is generally regarded as safe, though some have allergic or asthmatic reactions to this herb. The danger is heightened in those who are allergic to ragweed or daisies. Patients with liver or gallbladder disease are warned to stay away from dandelion but others feel there is no danger.

Dandelion leaf is famous for its ability to purify the blood and body. It cleanses the liver and increases its output. It also increases the flow of bile into the intestines and the activity of the pancreas and spleen. This makes it effective for the treatment for hepatitis, yellow jaundice, and other liver related problems. Its purifying skill makes it a treatment for some types of anemia. The leaf also helps with weight loss because the acids in the blood build up with weight loss and dandelion destroys them. Dandelion also builds energy and endurance and helps with low blood pressure.

Dandelion has special benefit for female issues. It will enrich breast milk in nursing mothers and this benefits both mother and child. It is beneficial both before, during, and after pregnancy. The diuretic action of dandelion helps relieve some of the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Yes, dandelion is healthy and safe for men, woman, children, and animals.

Dandelion flowers are an excellent source of lecithin, a nutrient that elevates the brain?s acetylcholine. As a result, it may help retard or stop regression of mental ability caused by Alzheimer's disease. Lecithin also helps the body maintain good liver function as mentioned before. Dandelion also opens the urinary passages as part of its cleansing work.

The flowers of dandelion are an excellent source of lecithin. This increases the brain's acetylcholine resulting in retarding or stop regressing of mental disability caused by Alzheimer's disease. Lecithin also helps maintain good liver function, and opens urinary passages.

Dandelion leaves and flowers are best when freshly picked. If this is not possible, the leaves can be refrigerated up to five days when wrapped in a plastic bag. Be sure to wash the leaves thoroughly before using. Leaves may also be frozen for longer periods of time. You can also dry the flowers and leaves yourself and store them in a dark, dry, and cool place. Use them in the bath to treat yeast infections, or to make your own dandelion tea (steep about 1 tablespoon of dried leaves in 1 cup hot water). Dandelion may also be purchased in capsules, tinctures, and powdered form.

Dandelion is generally regarded as safe, but some people report allergic or asthmatic reaction to this herb, especially those with allergies to ragweed or daisies. Traditionally dandelion is not recommended for patients with liver or gallbladder disease but some feel this advice is erroneous.

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With such potential for strengthening your health, cut dandelion leaf surely deserves a try, wouldn't you say? Make sure you get cut dandelion root that is quality so as to make sure you reap the full benefits.

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