Dandelion
Taraxum officinale
For me dandelions have always been a
sign of spring. Yellow beds of flowers signalise that winter has finished and
that everything has come back to life.
Although we can admire their blossoming
beauty particularly in April and May, dandelions belong to the small group of
plants that stay green throughout most of the year.
And I think that happens for a
purpose. Not only have dandelions been known for their medicinal properties,
but they are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. They nourish and they revitalise the body and mind. They help us to come back to life anytime we want.
Description
Dandelion is widespread and abundant
in all grassy places. Flowers February to November, but especially April and
May. Large golden-yellow flowers with a sweet scent, followed by fluffy heads
of numerous seeds. Long, stout taproots with milky sap.
What’s in it?
Dandelions are packed with vitamins
A, B, C, D and K as well as minerals such as potassium, iron, magnesium,
phosphorus and zinc. The roots contain inulin, taraxacin and levulin –
substances that help balance blood sugar level.
Properties and Use
Digestive system
- It’s used for gallbladder, kidney and liver complaints; it relieves upset stomach and heartburn and helps digestion
- Dandelion has been used to treat appendicitis, diabetes, diarrhea, constipation, chronic indigestion, intestinal gas, gallstones, jaundice, hepatitis, cirrhosis
- It promotes gastro-intestinal health
- It helps to cure/ prevents anemia as it stimulates the appetite
Circulatory system
- The herb lowers blood pressure
- The plant lowers and controls cholesterol levels
Urinary system
- Leaves are diuretic and encourage urination
Immune system
- Dandelion supports the immune system of the body and eliminates the toxins
Skin
- It soothes burns, stings, swellings, boils, warts (sap)
- It clears acne, skin eruptions and eczema
Food
- Use young leaves in salads, smoothies and sandwiches
- Roots can be roasted and then ground – used as a coffee substitute
Other
- It’s been used to relieve sore breasts in breastfeeding mothers and stimulate the milk flow
- Dandelion is very rich in antioxidants which prevent damage of our cells and slow down the aging process
- It may be used to aid the treatment of viral infections and cancer
- Joint pain
If you are allergic to the group of
plants the dandelion belongs to, such as marigolds, daisies or chrysanthemums,
avoid dandelion.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Herbs may cause allergic reactions, interfere with other medications and supplements or lead to unknown side effects. You should always speak to your doctor if you have any health concerns.
For a full MEDICAL DISCLAIMER, click here.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Herbs may cause allergic reactions, interfere with other medications and supplements or lead to unknown side effects. You should always speak to your doctor if you have any health concerns.
For a full MEDICAL DISCLAIMER, click here.
All parts of the plant can be used – roots, stems, leaves and flowers.
Dried and fresh dandelions are used in herbal medicine. They can be used to
prepare teas, infusions, syrups, wines, decoctions, and tinctures.
acne, aging process, anemia, appendicitis, boils, burns, cancer, cholesterol, cirrhosis, constipation, detoxification, diabetes, diarrhea, diuretic, eczema, gallstones,heartburn, hepatatis, high blood pressure, indigestion, intestinal gas, jaundice, joint pain, sore breasts, stings, swellings, upset stomach, viral infections, warts
Reading list:
McVicar J.(2013) Grow Herbs, DK
Ltd: London
http://www.altnature.com/gallery/dandelion.htm
http://www.sunwarrior.com/news/11-health-benefits-of-dandelion-and-dandelion-root/
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