Do you complain about the rambling weeds in your garden or scattered around your perfectly kept lawn? Nature has always provided well for the myriad of conditions suffered both by human beings and animals. We are surrounded by an apothecary growing right under our noses. But often, we pull them out and see them as an unwelcome, unruly nuisance. Dandelion is probably one of the most common weeds found in absolute abundance. Both the leaf and the root have been used for centuries and is one of my favourite healers as a great all-rounder. I’m never without it in my kitchen.
The leaf is bitter and can be washed and eaten in salads. Our livers love bitter foods and this weed is certainly one of the best, said to cleanse the kidneys, liver, lymphatic system and blood stream. The leaf can be purchased in teabags (tastes mild) and the root is roasted and marketed as a caffeine free “coffee” (1 heaped teaspoon in a flask of boiling water). Two mugs daily of either is a general recommendation. It is highly diuretic, stimulates digestion and contains an abundance of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals such as potassium, calcium, copper, manganese, zinc, phosphorous, vitamins A, C, B, D, E and K.
Here are some other reported therapeutics benefits that may be found in dandelion:
Ø Weight loss – no herb on its own will substantially reduce weight, but where there is fluid retention, few are better than dandelion – both the leaf and the root. It will assist in digestion, improving liver and gallbladder function, so gently encourages detoxification and improved fluid balance.
Ø Liver protector – Liver and gallbladder – dandelion has been used for liver complaints for centuries. It cleanses and strengthens the liver, stimulates the flow of bile to aid in the breaking down of fats, reducing cholesterol (lowering the risks of heart disease), reducing indigestion, and removal of toxins. Some studies have also shown it to reduce excessive fat in the liver. *Use with caution if you have gall stones.
Ø Prevents the growth of cancerous cells – Dandelion Root extract has anticancer effects against, pancreatic cancer, leukemia, melanoma and colon cancer. However, human studies are limited but those that have been conducted to ascertain the effects of dandelion root extract on cancerous cells, have shown that dandelion extract works to destroy cancer cells within just 48 hours of contact. There are now numerous reported cases where patients have successfully used dandelion root in their cancer treatment. Always discuss with your consultant as it can reduce the effects of chemotherapy.
Ø Boosts immune function – high in antioxidants, dandelion helps combat free radical damage (toxic by-products of oxygen metabolism that can damage living cells and tissues in a process called oxidative stress). Antioxidants are required by the body to combat this process. Some research also indicates that dandelion may have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which can assist your body’s ability to fight infection and reduce over working the immune system.
Ø Anti-inflammatory – research has shown a reduction in inflammation for a number of inflammatory conditions including arthritis. It is reported to reduce uric acid levels in the blood where conditions such as gout, cause severe pain and inflammation due to elevated uric acid levels. High in potassium, it also helps alkalise the blood stream. Raising alkalinity to combat an acidic environment is essential not only in combating inflammation, but in improving general health.
Ø Lowers blood sugar – by stimulating the pancreas to produce insulin and normalise blood sugar levels, dandelion can be useful in controlling or preventing diabetes. Chicoric and Chlorogenic are compounds found in the plant and said to assist in metabolising carbohydrates, thus reducing spikes in insulin.
Ø Boosts the generation of new skin – as a blood and lymphatic cleanser, dandelion helps remove toxins from the system, preventing bacterial build up and inflammation in the skin. The root is also reported to speed up the generation of new skin cells. Conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, rosacea and acne can benefit from including the root in your daily diet.
Ø Healthier gut – the plant is high in inulin – a plant fibre and prebiotic that encourages the natural production of probiotics in the gut. This not only boosts immune function, but can improve digestive disturbances such as bloating, digestive disturbances after anti-biotic use, IBS or food sensitivities.
Using this friendly weed can contribute considerably to your general health in so many ways. It’s cheap, gentle and easily accessible. If you decide to use the leaves in your salads, wash well in apple cider vinegar before consuming. Capsules can also be found in health food stores. If you suffer with any chronic health conditions or cancer, do check with your health adviser before taking.
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