Dandelion is a sturdy perennial plant that can grow to nearly 12 inches tall. The plants have toothy, spatula-like leaves that are shiny and hairless and have bright yellow flowers. The flower opens with the sun in the morning and closes in the evening or during gloomy weather. Dandelion greens are edible and are a rich source of vitamins.
Traditionally, dandelion was used as part of Chinese, Native American and Arabic medicine, and was most commonly used to treat liver and kidney diseases and problems with digestion, skin and spleen. In Europe, dandelion was used in remedies for fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea. There’s no compelling scientific evidence that dandelion is useful in the treatment of any medical condition but preliminary research suggests that dandelion may help improve liver and gallbladder function.
Dandelion is sometimes considered a pesky weed, but it’s chock full of vitamins A, B, C, and D and minerals – potassium, and zinc. Dandelion provides the natural, active plant nutrients flavonoids and terpenoids, and contains natural antioxidants that help your body get rid of free radicals.
How dandelion is used:
- Herbalists use dandelion roots to detoxify the liver and gallbladder.
- Dandelion leaves are used to help kidney function.
- The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, are used fresh or dried in teas, capsules, or extracts.
- Dandelion leaves are used to add flavor to salads, sandwiches, and teas or cooked green
- The dandelion flowers are used to make wine.
- The roots are used in some coffee substitutes.
- Dandelion smoothies are a rich source of antioxidants.
Dandelion can be found in a number of different ways, but you should only use it in one form at a time. Fresh or dried, alone or combined with other dietary supplements, dandelion can be found as tinctures, liquid extract, teas, tablets, and capsules. The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening your body and treating disease, however, you should take herbs with care, under the supervision of your doctor or health care provider.
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Althea
Althea A. McLeish Wilson, RN, MSN
Promoting inner health & outer beauty!
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References:
National Institute of Health – Dandelion♦
University of Maryland Medical Center- Dandelion♦
