Indeed, in many parts of the world, dandelions are misinterpreted and given little credit. Although some may view them as weeds, they have long been valued for their culinary and medicinal uses.
Iron, calcium, potassium, and the vitamins A, C, and K are just a few of the many nutrients found in dandelion plants. They also include other bioactive compounds and antioxidants that have a number of health advantages.
Throughout history, dandelions have been used as a natural remedy for a wide range of health conditions, as you mentioned. Here are some of the potential health benefits and traditional uses of dandelions:
Dandelion Health Benefits
Digestion
Dandelion can dramatically aid digestion and helps to balance out the good and bad bacteria within the stomach and the intestines and helps to stimulate the appetite.
Dandelion is also a diuretic, stimulating urine production and aids the kidneys in excreting toxic waste and excess water. It also acts as a mild laxative by softening stools, thus aiding in constipation relief.
Protects Bones
Super rich in Vitamin K, dandelions can contain over 500 percent of your daily recommended intake. Vitamin K is a vital fat-soluble vitamin that is required by our bodies for bone mineralization. Studies have shown that Vitamin K is more efficient at building and strengthening bones than calcium!
Cleanses The Liver
Dandelions increase the liver’s production of superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant that helps fight free-radical damage to cells and DNA, basically meaning that the aging process in our cells is slowed down!
Dandelion has also shown in studies to aid the liver function by helping remove harmful toxins within the body and providing an increased amount of electrolytes.
A 2017 study found that polysaccharides in dandelion are very beneficial to liver function.
Inflammation
Due to their plentiful amounts of essential fatty acids, phytonutrients, and antioxidants, dandelions are able to reduce and control inflammation and pain across many regions of the body, comparable to some harmful prescription medications and without the nasty side effects.
Cholesterol
Dandelion has the potential to lower and control cholesterol levels as shown in a number of studies carried out on animals.
Hight Blood Pressure
Super nutritious and rich in fiber and potassium, dandelions have lots of potentials to help regulate blood pressure.
Immune System
Dandelion has a positive effect on our immune system and immune function. It can help fight off many microbes and bacteria and can be used topically to treat a wide variety of skin irritations.
How To Use Dandelions
Dandelions can be eaten raw and straight from the ground after a quick wash or sautéed in a frying pan at home. Many people also make dandelion tea. The roots are often used to make tea and boast the most impressive health benefits of the whole plant.
They contain very high levels of calcium, potassium and phosphorous and many of the antioxidants found in the roots can help to inhibit the growth of and induce death in cancer cells.
Source: anyavien.com