In addition to appreciating the beauty of the flower that spreads with the wind, do you know the benefits of dandelion? Yes, it does, although this plant, also known as bitter chicory, is commonly considered a “weed.”
However, given its use in popular medicine, research has been conducted on its properties and possible contributions to health.
For this reason, in addition to the fact that it proliferates in rural areas, pastures, and roads, this plant is intentionally cultivated by people in their orchards and gardens to use it as an ingredient in the preparation of natural remedies and thus take advantage of all the potential benefits of dandelion.
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What is dandelion, and what are its properties
Dandelion is a medicinal plant known in many parts of the world. According to a publication made in Cambridge University Press, it is a source of various nutrients and biologically active substances. In addition, its roots and leaves contain vitamins (A, K, C, and B complex), minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron), micronutrients, fiber, lecithin, and choline.
This same study highlights that, in addition, the plant has properties such as immunomodulator, digestive stimulant, prebiotic, insulin stimulant, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, antineoplastic, and demulcent. However, despite the various studies, more evidence is required to verify its benefits, safe doses, and efficacy.
To date, research has revealed that dandelion is a plant whose compounds (sesquiterpene lactones, phenylpropanoids, saponins, triterpenoids, and polysaccharides) have a diuretic and digestive effect that helps improve health. In turn, this is considered to help stimulate appetite and reduce inflammation.
Thanks to these properties, dandelion is used in complementary medicine in moderate amounts, either in capsules, extracts, or infusions. It should be noted that it is used as an alternative remedy for humans and animals—especially dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, reptiles, and small birds.
13 benefits of dandelion that you may not have known about
Most of the remedies with dandelion come to be infusions that, when drunk with some regularity, help the proper functioning of the body. Some even use it as an adjuvant to calm the symptoms of certain diseases.
However, in the latter case, the doctor must supervise its consumption, especially if a pharmacological treatment has already been adopted. It should not be ignored that plants can have drug interactions and side effects.
In addition, it must be clear that it should not be used as a replacement for conventional treatment. If the practitioner agrees, dandelion’s potential benefits can be considered a health-promoting supplement. But let’s see in more detail what it is used for and how it can help us.
1. Fight fluid retention
Due to its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, dandelion has been used as a supplement to stimulate the elimination of waste through urine and, in general, all fluids retained in the body. In short, its natural active ingredients improve kidney function when its infusion is drunk twice a day.
2. Improves liver function
Dandelion root is a well-known protector of the liver, not only because it helps to optimize its functioning but also because it prevents and relieves inflammation. It also helps regulate the flow of bile.
A study published in Molecules in 2017 determined that the polysaccharides present in dandelion may benefit liver function. Preparing the root as an infusion and drinking it at least three times a week will be necessary to obtain these benefits.
3. Helps digestion
This plant has digestive properties and a slight laxative effect that helps improve bowel movement, according to information from a study published in Neurogastroenterology and Motility.
So, if you want to take advantage of the benefits of dandelion, an infusion in combination with a diet rich in fiber and antioxidants, as well as good hydration, can help eliminate accumulated waste.
In case of indigestion and intestinal gases, the infusion of this plant is also recommended since it helps to calm the symptoms without affecting the activity of healthy bacteria.
4. Fights anemia
Bitter chicory contributes minerals such as iron, magnesium, and calcium. Due to these benefits, dandelion would be an excellent dietary supplement to speed recovery from episodes of anemia and fatigue.
Although more evidence is required in this regard, research published in Advances in Hematology determined that it can support the formation of red and white blood cells, which helps, among other things, to strengthen the immune system and fight anemia.
Remember that, in addition to including a dandelion infusion in your routine, you must maintain a balanced diet that meets your body’s needs to enjoy health and well-being.
5. Protects visual health
The set of essential nutrients that dandelion contains can also help, in a certain way, to take care of visual health since it minimizes the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other conditions.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two substances (pigments) found in this plant and, to a greater extent, in various foods, such as chard, corn, broccoli, oranges, mangoes, etc.
6. Fight skin problems
Regular consumption of the infusion and application of dandelion compresses are natural solutions for some skin problems. Research published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular notes that its extracts help protects against UVB damage.
Since this plant has anti-inflammatory and healing effects, its use also favors healing superficial wounds and allergies.
7. Relieves inflammation
As demonstrated by a study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology, in addition to the benefits of dandelion mentioned above, this plant has anti-inflammatory components that, when assimilated in the body, help to restore the balance of its inflammatory processes.
8. Controls cholesterol and triglyceride levels
According to research, dandelion consumption helps lower triglyceride and “bad” cholesterol (LDL) levels. This means it can contribute to preventing and developing cardiovascular diseases.
9. Prevents premature aging
Natural bioactive substances in dandelion have antioxidant properties (beta-carotene). Therefore, it protects against cell damage and oxidative stress, helping to prevent premature aging.
10. Helps lose weight
Studies have found a relationship between the consumption of dandelion extract and lipid metabolism, affecting the size of fat cells and helping to reduce body weight.
11. Blood glucose monitoring
Studies have also been conducted on patients with type 2 diabetes who used dandelion extracts. In them, a significant reduction in blood glucose levels was observed, so it is considered that this plant can influence insulin production and have hypoglycemic effects.
12. Cancer prevention
According to research, dandelion root extract contains various phenolic compounds, antioxidants, and triterpenoids, which can inhibit the growth of cells of different types of cancer, including colorectal.
13. Influenza viruses
The consumption of dandelion tea infusion (at least 15 mg) also seems to contribute to treating and eliminating the flu virus, as observed in research in China.
Recommendations and contraindications
Even though this plant can help care for or maintain health, it should not be used as an exclusive treatment for any condition but rather as a complement to the doctor’s recommendations.
Likewise, using the dandelion infusion within the framework of a healthy lifestyle based on a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and combining it with regular exercise is most advisable.
On the other hand, certain groups of people should avoid its use: pregnant women, lactating women, patients with gallbladder problems, and gallstones. If you have any questions, consult with the doctor.