The Benefits of Dandelion Are Gradual but Impressive
The benefits of dandelion are many- greater wellness, digestion, sleep and even pain relief. Although dandelion is a common herb, it has been used by herbal healers for hundreds of years. Dandelion is widely available across the globe. Often considered a weed, it thrives persistently, in many environments. The dandelion plant exhibits strength, energy, and determination to survive. Ask any home owner trying to rid his lawn of this nutritious plant. It is almost impossible to “weed it out.” With such characteristics, The benefits of dandelion can be understood Rich vital nutrition helps us be more resilient to stress. Dandelion root is a rich provider of vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, amino acids, natural sugars and starches. The roots are rich in iron, manganese, phosphorous, protein, aluminum and carotenes. They also contain calcium, chromium, cobalt, magnesium, niacin, potassium, riboflavin, silicon, sodium, tin, zinc, and ascorbic acid. Dandelion leaves are high in carotenes, ascorbic acid, potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorous and B vitamins. They also contain magnesium, silica and manganese. The dandelion plant also contains many phyto nutrients such as sesquiterpenes lactones, sterols and flavinoids. The benefits of dandelion can be When our body's systems function well, life feels less stressful. Dandelion has been referred to by many as a general liver cleanser, blood purifier and diuretic. It has also been used to promote digestion and lymphatic cleansing. It is sometimes used for low grade fever, sinus infection and allergies. It is considered a slow acting remedy which works most effectively when taken over a long period of time. Dandelion root tones, nourishes and strengthens the liver. This can be very significant in terms of health since the liver has such a fundamental role in the functioning of the body. Since the liver has more than 500 functions, it is difficult to feel healthy and vital if the liver is stressed. As herbalist Susan Weed explains in her book “Healing Wise”, “one whose liver is not right can not enjoy life.” But with a strong healthy liver, life can be a joy. Dandelion also helps to stimulate the flow of bile. Dandelion is often teamed with burdock root to assist in its liver cleansing action. Dandelion has also been used to strengthen and nourish the spleen, pancreas, immune system, and glandular system, circulatory and lymphatic systems. It has also been used by traditional herbalists to treat rheumatism and chronic skin eruptions. You could say “it gets around”. Perhaps that’s why it can be so useful in helping the body become more resilient to stressful challenges. It is a "natural" for stress relief. Dandelion leaf is an effective diuretic. Since it is also one of the best natural sources of potassium its action tends to be very safe. Dandelion is also said to help dissolve kidney and bladder stones. The leaf is also a “digestive bitter” which is said to increase hydrochloric acid in the stomach and help avoid tummy aches. Overall, the dandelion plant promotes strong digestion and strengthens the functioning of the stomach, bowels liver and kidneys. It is anti bacterial and anti fungal and can encourage deep sleep. (It’s hard to sleep with a stomach ache or indigestion!) One of the benefits of dandelion is frugality Dandelion is an inexpensive herb. Although it is widely available in gardens, lawns and roadsides I recommend that you either purchase it organically grown from your local health food store or harvest it only from areas that have not been chemically treated. Dandelion can be a useful addition to many meals. I like to steam the greens together with sweeter vegetables like parsnips, carrots, potatoes or yams. Then add your favorite seasonings. Both the leaves and the root can be added to soups and stews to increase the nutritional content of a meal. The powered root is particularly useful for soups. Dandelion leaf can also be chopped fine and added to fresh green salads. The yellow flowers are also edible and can be added as a colorful garnish to other dishes. A tea made with dandelion flowers is sometime useful for headaches and even depression. Dandelion plants are a natural way to nourish |