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Majority of the time, whenever one refers to Dandelion, they think of the dried and white version of the flowers that blows out into the thin air with wind. But have you ever wondered about the dandelion benefits when they are in their starking yellow glory in the beautiful meadow? Possibly not, right?
Every part of the dandelion, especially its roots have amazing health benefits that majority of us are not even close to being aware of. It ranges from every major organ to even the minutest ones which is what makes the benefits of dandelion root so pronounced in their results.
In this article, we are going to be focusing on several of the dandelion health benefits that can help you understand the importance of this yellow flower bearing plant a little bit better.
What is Dandelion?
Dandelion encompasses a family of flowering plants that are grown and found in several parts of the world. Known as Taraxacum spp in scientific taxonomy, this plant is often times regarded as the plant that is often considered as stubborn weed littering every person’s lawn.
This plant is way more than that because of the fact that it is revered with beneficial health benefits which is what makes it an amazing herb used for the treatment of several health ailments like that of cancer, liver diseases and associated digestive disorders.
Dandelion Health Benefits
With all the talks about the benefits of Dandelion, it is fitting that one should possibly discuss the actual dandelion uses that helps in positively impacting one’s overall well being.
Check Out the Most Popular Health Benefits of Dandelion.
1. Dandelion Benefits for Liver Cleanse and Liver Health
Dandelion has very protective benefits against the liver cells and tissues when they are generally subjected to stress and other forms of toxins. In a study (R) conducted, the positive impacts of dandelion were found encircling the protection of the liver tissues in mice exposed to doses of Tylenol. The administration of Dandelion was found to be beneficial in the protection of the liver and it was deduced that the same was possible because of the presence of high levels of antioxidants in it.
Not just that, dandelion is also very beneficial in getting rid of the excess deposition of fat (R) that often occurs in the liver owing to poor metabolism. While a majority of the studies have been conducted on mice and there have been no clinical trials, there are still ongoing researchers to cement the scientific evidences behind these claims.
2. Dandelion Benefits as Anti-Inflammatory Agent
Inflammation in the body can subject it to a number of negative impacts which is what the benefits of dandelion root helps cure. Owing to its effective anti-inflammatory properties, the dandelion root is very beneficial in fighting off any presence of inflammation in the body which could pose obstruction to the body functions or even inflict pain.
It is very effective in fighting off inflammation that if often induced by the body’s exposure to plant compounds like polyphenols. Studies (R) have also been conducted to support these claims and possible clinical trials are also expected to be in progress to solidify the proper claims behind these benefits.
3. Dandelion Benefits for Arthritis
Arthritis is characterized by the increased inflammation and pains the joints of the body which is what causes the swelling that we see on the exterior of the body. Consumption of the dandelion root actually does help in reducing this starking inflammation and the primary reason behind the same being the presence of beneficial anti-inflammatory (R) properties in this root.
Even though there is not much evidence about the dosage, it is always best to consult a doctor to get that sorted out so as to ensure that what you are consuming wouldn’t inflict negative impacts on your body.
4. Dandelion Benefits for Stomach Bloating
Dandelion is also very beneficial with the process of digestion. The tea made with the Dandelion roots help facilitate digestion which is one of the most common ways of getting rid of stomach bloating that is often caused because of indigestion or lack of digestion of the ingested food.
It also possesses diuretic benefits (R) which are beneficial in “de-bloating” the stomach by frequent urination.
5. Dandelion Benefits for Constipation
Even though there are not many studies to back the claims up encircling the benefits of dandelion roots in treating the problems related to constipation, it is believed that the consumption of dandelion tea is helpful in relieving the signs and symptoms of constipation because of its mild laxative properties.
It also enhances water retention (R) which helps in softening the stool that ensures to keep the pain during defecation to a bare minimum.
6. Dandelion Benefits for Preventing Cancer
While there have been lingering notions regarding the possible positive benefits of dandelion in the prevention of cancer, it is all in it being a possible cure but not something that’s set in stone. Even though there have been little to no clinical trials conducted regarding this, there have been salient test tube tests conducted which shed light on the actual anti-cancer properties of the dandelion.
The administration of the dandelion (R) leaf extract in the test-tube test significantly revealed to reduce the growth of the cancerous cells. The same when conducted with the flowers (R) or even the roots didn’t reflect similar results which showcase the fact that it is the leaves that portray anti-cancer effects and benefits.
More research concerning this is still in progress, especially its effects in clinical trials for curing the cancerous growth in affected human individuals.
7. Dandelion Benefits for Diabetes
Dandelion plant, roots, flowers and leaves, have been considered as an effective treatment for diabetes because of its combination of not just anti-hyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant (R) properties.
Even though there is still an extensive ongoing process of research going to chalk out the entirety of the process, it is believed that the benefits of Dandelion are more pronounced in the treatment of Type II Diabetes. It is primarily because of the presence of polyphenolics, triterpenes, phytosterols (R) etc. which helps regulate the levels of glucose in the blood.
8. Dandelion Benefits for Weight Loss
There are no conclusive data encircling the effect of dandelion in terms of weight loss but it is believed that the active compounds present in the dandelion help in aiding weight loss. A study (R) conducted on mice administered with dandelion supplements experienced a substantial loss in their weight. This was suggested to be an accessory finding because that was not the primary focus of the study.
It is also believed (R) that the carbohydrate metabolism capability along with the reduced rate of fat absorption is yet another factor that could possibly contribute to the reduced weight but that hasn’t been scientifically proven or backed up with facts.
9. Dandelion Benefits for Digestion
Dandelion uses also extend to the proper digestion of the ingested food. Even though there are not many clinical trials to back up the claims, it is believed that the consumption of dandelion supplements helps in inducing contraction and movement of the GI tract (R) which effectively helps in pushing the ingested food to the small intestine for further digestion and absorption.
It is also rich in the fiber, Inulin which has beneficial properties (R) in reducing the signs and symptoms of constipation and boosting the intestinal movement.
10. Dandelion Benefits for Women Fertility
The use of Dandelion for boosting the signs and presence of fertility in women has been very predominant. That being said, a majority of the experts tend to suggest the usage of this herb because of its beneficial cleansing properties which contribute inducing fertility and increase the chances of pregnancy in an individual.
If you want to detoxify your body or need to boost your well being with the packed nutrition that one gets from the dandelion, try and opt for the supplements or even for the tea which is now available in surplus quantity because of its amazing and pronounced health benefits.
11. Dandelion Benefits for Gallstones
The activity of the gallbladder is more or less dependent on how one’s liver is working. If there are any possibilities of lack of liver functions, chances are that the same is going to adversely affect the gallbladder as well, the primary associated problem being that of the development of gallbladder stones which tend to adversely seize and affect the functioning of the gall stones.
Because of its effective diuretic properties (R), it also helps flush out the gall stones out of the body which is definitely an added bonus.
12. Dandelion Benefits for Insomnia
Even though there are no conclusive studies explaining the dandelion health benefits in treating the sleeping disorder of Insomnia, there have been experts suggesting for a fact that it very well could be the liver cleansing property of the Dandelion that could very well be the contributing factor to inducing a good night’s sleep.
You are probably confused with this as well, right? The properly functioning liver is what helps contribute to a properly regulated blood glucose levels in the body that helps in prevention of sudden waking up during the night which is one of the primary reasons behind insomnia.
13. Dandelion Benefits for Kidney Stones
The consumption of dandelion induces diuretic properties in an individual which is exactly what anyone needs to help relieve the presence of kidney stones in the body. The more the urination, the more are the chances of the stones being broken down into small ones and finally being flushed out of the body.
The best way of administering Dandelion for kidney stones is by consuming the tea which has beneficial effects in inducing urination (R) which helps in getting rid of the stones at a much faster pace.
14. Dandelion Benefits in Improving Bone Health
Dandelion root has amazing benefits in affecting one’s bone health and that too, for the better. It is loaded with effectual vitamins and minerals which imposes effective results in strengthening the bones and the muscles as well. Not only that, the combination of effective concentration of calcium along with Vitamin K help in contributing to bettering one’s condition of the bones as well, making them sturdy and stronger.
15. Dandelion Benefits for Urinary Tract Infection
The effect of dandelion in the treatment of Urinary Tract Infection is primarily dependant on its effective diuretic properties which help in flushing out the bacterial infestation (R) through frequent urination. If you are on the lookout for good remedies for UTI with the inclusion of dandelion, opt for the combination of dandelion and uva ursi.
While the dandelion ensures frequent urination, the uva ursi imposes anti-bacterial properties which helps in eliminating the bacteria growth and thus contributes to curing the problem from the root itself.
16. Dandelion Benefits for Jaundice
Characterized by a yellowish tint on one’s skin and even the eyes, Jaundice is primarily caused because of affected liver functions. The consumption of dandelion has a pronounced effect in reducing the signs and symptoms associated with jaundice as it helps curb the root problem that’s causing it.
It helps in cleansing and detoxifying the liver (R) which further contributes to the better functioning of this pivotal organ. The dosage more or less is dependent on what the doctor suggests. Make sure that you are abiding by them because the excess consumption of the dandelion roots or leaves can often result in negative implications.
17. Dandelion Benefits for Anemia
Anemia has beneficial impacts on one’s overall quality of life. There have been conducted studies (R) to deduce the possible effect on consumption of dandelion extract in boosting the blood cell count in patients suffering from anemia.
The results concluded in the study conducted on the mice stated that the administration of the dandelion helped in boosting the production of the mean haemoglobin count which is exactly what contributes to aiding with the condition of anemia which affects the normal production of healthy red blood cells in the body.
18. Dandelion Benefits for Blood Pressure
Heightened blood pressure can stem from a number of varying reasons and be the cause behind a number of health ailments as well, the most predominant one being the negative impacts on the heart. The diuretic property of the dandelion, in this case too, helps in getting rid of the hypertension that one experiences because of several reasons.
Not just that, dandelion also helps in regulating the cholesterol levels in the body and increases the levels of HDL in the blood which also indirectly helps in lowering the blood pressure if the same roots from any kind of obstruction in the blood (R) vessels.
19. Dandelion Benefits as an Appetite Stimulant
If you are having a hard time digesting food and thereby having a gradually depleting appetite, chances are that the consumption of dandelion, either in the form of extract or even tea can help in relieving the problems associated with the situation.
The better the digestion and the inner well being of an individual, the better is their appetite. While there are no scientific evidences to claim how it actually serves as an appetite stimulant, it is believed that it actually does boost one’s will to eat which might have been affected otherwise.
20. Dandelion Benefits to Reduce Cholesterol
The combination of antioxidant as well as the hypolipidemic properties of the Dandelion work together to rid the body of the impending stress as well as the excess levels of cholesterol in the body which could otherwise inflict negative effects on one’s overall well being.
The consumption of dandelion helps increase the levels of HDL in the body which helps in the proper channelling of the cholesterol properly to the liver for further metabolism which is often what helps in preventing risks of atherosclerosis.
21. Dandelion Benefits for Fighting Bacterial Infections
There is little evidence to support the claims about the anti-bacterial benefits (R) of dandelion on aiding with the process of healing of the infection. With that out the way, it is also believed that the noticeable presence of Vitamin C in the dandelion is a beneficial factor deducing the healing process when it comes to any form of bacterial infestation in the body.
It is also believed that the topical application of dandelion benefits by healing the infection without inflicting any form of negative side effects.
22. Dandelion Benefits in Boosting Immune System
The immune system is subject to a number of threats, both internal and external. The mild antioxidant property of the dandelion is very beneficial in treating any kind of problem relating to lack of immunity. They are also loaded with amazing nutrients, vitamins and minerals which contribute to building one’s immunity from within.
If you are opting for dandelion as a remedy to boost your immune system, make sure to stick to either the tea or the extract for effective benefits.
Dandelion Skin Benefits
Not just for the overall inner health, Dandelion also has promising benefits in healing the problems on one’s skin as well. The mild antioxidant as well as the Vitamins and Minerals in the dandelion help in getting rid of all the marks and blemishes that could otherwise caused issues on the skin.
23. Dandelion Benefits for Acne
Acne can be because of a number of reasons, toxic blood, and excess production of oil on the face being the common reasons. It is believed that the consumption of dandelion root on a regular basis helps in cleansing of the blood because of the improved functions of the liver which is what contributes to the lessening of the appearance of acne on the face.
If you are wondering about how much dandelion root one needs to consume, make sure that the levels of consumption are always discussed with the doctor before you start consuming it. Run your medical history with your doctor and then proceed with consuming it for the treatment of acne.
24. Dandelion Benefits for Anti Aging
One of the most common benefits of Dandelion lies in its anti-aging properties. Loaded with beneficial antioxidant properties, the consumption of dandelion is very effective in getting rid of the fine lines and wrinkles that litters one’s skin.
It also helps nourish the skin with its beneficial nutrients and minerals and prevents the sagging of the skin which is one of the primary signs and symptoms related to ageing in an individual. It firms up the skin and gets rid of the dark spots, thereby further aiding in preventing the signs of ageing. If you want to witness such benefits, include dandelion in your daily diet.
25. Dandelion Benefits Overall Skin Health
The dandelion sap that is often underrated amidst all the other components of the plant imposes beneficial alkaline properties along with antimicrobial properties which combined helps in getting rid of any kind of skin disease easily.
If you are witnessing consistent itching and irritation, the application of the dandelion sap can effectively help heal the problem and cure it completely. That being said, it is always best advised to keep this away from the eyes because the same can inflict irritation in the eyes which is definitely not something you want.
Dandelion Hair benefits
Much like the plethora of benefits that dandelion has for the overall health as well as skin, it is also beneficial effects in treating hair related problems, much like the dry and scaly scalp as well as the persistent loss of hair.
26. Dandelion Benefits for Treating Dandruff
One of the primary reasons behind the excessive dandruff on the scalp is because of the excessive production of the sebum and oil on the scalp which is what contributes to excess accumulation of dirt on the scalp and hence to the formation of dandruff. A quick rinse with dandelion roots or even the leaves can actually be very helpful in regulating the oil balance on the scalp for a healthier scalp.
What To Do?
- Boil some water in a pot
- Add a few pieces of dandelion root and leaves to the pot and bring it to a boil
- Let the ingredients boil for around 10 minutes
- Following that, let all the ingredients steep for 10-15 minutes and let the concoction cool down completely
- Strain the liquid and use this to rinse your hair a last time before ending your shower
- Repeat this once or twice a week to help get rid of dandruff from the scalp
27. Dandelion Benefits for Preventing Hair Loss
Hair loss can stem from several reasons, be it poor lifestyle or even the poor condition of the scalp. Dandelion is rich in Vitamin A, C as well as E which have beneficial properties in boosting the growth of hair. Apart from these, Dandelion also has a good composition of choline, magnesium as well as iron which fights the symptoms of hair loss and promotes hair growth. The benefits of dandelion root help stimulate hair growth.
What To Do?
- Steep some dandelion leaves or root in a pot of boiling water
- Let them steep for 15 minutes or till the concoction cools completely
- Strain the liquid and use this as a conditioner to rinse your hair after shampoo
- Repeat this process once or twice a week for noticeable results
How to Eat Dandelion?
More or less, every part of the dandelion plant is edible which is what makes it an amazing ingredient for boosting one’s overall health. While many people often tend to just uproot the plant, it is necessary to be very careful while harvesting a dandelion plant because of the fact that they are delicate and the roots of the dandelion play a very crucial part in the field of alternative medicine.
When it comes to eating dandelion, there are a few ways that one can actually opt for. In this section, we have mentioned a few common ways that one can enjoy the dandelion health benefits by its consumption.
For the Roots:
The roots of the dandelion plant are possibly the most important part when it comes to correlating with the health benefits. But, there are often times when people are not really that sure with how to actually consume it to extract the maximum benefits out of it.
- For the first variant, get some dandelion roots and clean the dirt off of them to make them suitable for consumption. Cut them into small pieces and sundry them to increase their shelf life. To make tea with the dandelion roots, boil some water in a pot and add some dandelion roots to it and let it boil and steep f0r 10-15 minutes in the liquid itself. Strain the liquid and then add a teaspoon of honey to it to cut down the bitterness from the roots. Drink this once or twice daily to enjoy the amazing benefits that it has.
- For the second variant, you can also switch up the dried, roasted and ground dandelion roots for your regular dose of caffeine from the coffee. Use this instead of roasted coffee by brewing it in the coffee pot and you can even add some cream and sweetener to it much like how you would do with normal coffee.
For the Flower and Petals
The vibrant yellow blossoms of the dandelion plant are also beneficial for health and are edible as well. If you are here wondering how one can eat a flower, I am here to help you with it.
- The flower petals are often times first dehydrated, either in the microwave or sometimes even under the sun. These dried flower petals can be effectively used as a cheeky garnish for the salads. The young dandelion petals have a very sweet and honey like flavor to them while the mature ones are slightly on the bitter side but both of them are healthy and nutrition for one’s health. Add them to your salad or even flavor your rice with it, doesn’t really matter; tastes just as good.
- The flowers can also be dipped in a thick tempura batter and deep fried as eaten as a fritter. If salads are not your thing, try making these fritters with the flowers and eat them hot with a sprinkle of salt.
For the Leaves
- For the young and tender leaves, wash them thoroughly first and add them into your salad because they are good enough in taste to be eaten raw in a salad without making the taste worse.
- For the mature leaves, you need to be a bit creative with them because of the fact that they taste bitter for the most part. Wash them first and blanch them in some boiling water for a few minutes to get rid of the bitterness as much as possible. Then, add a tablespoon of oil to a frying pan and add some chopped garlic to it and sauté it for a few seconds till it browns. Add the blanched leaves to the pan and cook it. Add some salt and pepper and your side dish is ready to be enjoyed.
- The leaves of the dandelion plant are also useful in making some tea. You can simply steep some leaves in some boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and add some honey and lemon to it and drink this once or twice a day.
Side Effects of Dandelion Root
Much like every other ingredient in the field of alternative medicine, even dandelion root has a few side effects that can adversely affect one’s overall well being which is why it is always advised to consult a doctor before proceeding with the consumption of the dandelion root.
Some of the common side effects of Dandelion root include:
1. Digestive Problems
While there are not very pronounced studies explaining why but the excess consumption of the dandelion root tends to aggravate the process of digestion in a few individuals, causing inflammation in the stomach along with diarrhea or even causes heartburn.
2. Urinary Tract Problems
Several people who have consumed the dandelion root tea have complained about having witnessed inflammation in their bladder which resulted in burning sensation during urination accompanied with pain. Because of the diuretic property, the excess consumption of dandelion can even induce frequent urination in individuals.
3. Allergic Reactions
If you are finding yourself being easily prone to allergy to the common variants of plants in this similar category like chamomile, marigold and all that, consumption of dandelion root or any part of the plant might not be a very suitable option for you. Some of the common allergy symptoms related to dandelion root include runny nose, inflamed eyes and even the red rashes and constant itching.
4. Negative Interactions with Medications
Because of the several characteristic features and compositions of the dandelion root, there are chances that it might hinder the functioning of several of the medications that you are consuming. If you are on medications for severe health conditions, it is always best to stay away from dandelion root because it tends to flush the medication out of the body at a very faster pace which is definitely the complete opposite of what one wishes for. People on blood thinning medications need to completely steer clear of this because it can induce bleeding. Not just that, the consumption of dandelion root tea often hinders with the medication that’s prescribed for the patients suffering from bipolar disorder.
5. Pain
This is one of those side effects that don’t really have any back-up evidence to support the claims. It tends to induce pain in certain individuals which can root from a number of reasons, which, for the most part, are unclickable.
Dandelion Root Nutrition Facts
Explaining the nutritional benefits of Dandelion root is often taken for granted, even though they are loaded with amazing benefits and healthy ingredients which make it ideal for consumption. In order to make it easier to understand the dandelion uses and nutritional benefits, it is sorted out in a tabular form.
| Compound | Amount (per 55 gms) |
| Calories | 24.7 kCal |
| Carbohydrates | 5.1 gm |
| Protein | 1.5 gm |
| Fat | 0.4 gm |
| Fiber | 1.9 gm |
| Vitamin K | 428 mg |
| Vitamin A | 5588 international units |
| Vitamin C | 19.3 mg |
| Calcium | 103 mg |
| Iron | 1.7 mg |
| Vitamin E | 1.9 mg |
| Manganese | 0.2 mg |
Chart source: https://draxe.com/dandelion-root/
The vivid composition of beneficial vitamins and minerals like folate, potassium, phosphorus, copper and even zinc make the dandelion roots an amazing remedy for the cure of a number of health ailments. The only thing to be assured of is to consume this in permissible quantities and not overdo its consumption because the same can often inflict negative impacts rather than the benefits.
The dandelion benefits are something that is always going to leave you baffled and shocked. The list of benefits is definitely effective in a plethora of ways which is what makes it one of the most sought after herbs in the market nowadays.
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