Dandelion’s Benefits to the Body

One little known song asks the question, “How many dandelions this year will grow?” Indeed, many find this weed a nuisance and do whatever they can to get rid of it. However, you may regret doing this when you learn the benefits of this wild plant.

It is officially Taraxacum officinale but commonly called dandelion. The name comes from the French words ‘dent de lion,’ that mean ‘lion’s tooth.’ This is a reference to the jagged-edged leaves. Dandelion in your yard is identical to the herb with so many benefits. Let’s see what some of them are.

Though the leaves are used in the most diverse ways, all the dandelion plant has healthful benefits. A few uses for the flowers include making wine, syrup, and jam. They are used in cooking (dandelion flower cookies?), and are made into an oil to rub on sore joints. The roots can be roasted and ground to make a type of root coffee, or be eaten as a vegetable.

Dandelion is generally regarded as safe, though some have allergic or asthmatic reactions to this herb. The danger is heightened in those who are allergic to ragweed or daisies. Patients with liver or gallbladder disease are warned to stay away from dandelion but others feel there is no danger.

Dandelion leaf is famous for its ability to purify the blood and body. It cleanses the liver and increases its output. It also increases the flow of bile into the intestines and the activity of the pancreas and spleen. This makes it effective for the treatment for hepatitis, yellow jaundice, and other liver related problems. Its purifying skill makes it a treatment for some types of anemia. The leaf also helps with weight loss because the acids in the blood build up with weight loss and dandelion destroys them. Dandelion also builds energy and endurance and helps with low blood pressure.

Dandelion is good for female organs. It enriches breast milk in nursing mothers and this, in turn, benefits both mother and child. It is good for women both before, during, and after pregnancy. Women suffering from premenstrual syndrome may find that the diuretic action of dandelion helps relieve some of the symptoms. In short, dandelion is safe and healthy for men, woman, children, and even animals.

Some herbs are not recommended for pregnant or lactating women. Dandelion on the other hand is beneficial. It actually enriches breast milk in nursing mothers. It benefits a mother throughout pregnancy and after. The symptoms of premenstrual syndrome are often relieved because of dandelion’s diuretic action. Yes, dandelion is good for everyone, even your pet.

Native Americans used it to treat kidney disease, indigestion, and heartburn. Traditional Chinese Medicine uses dandelion to treat upper respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia.

Dandelion leaves and flowers are best when freshly picked. However, the leaves can also be refrigerated up to five days as long as you wrap them in plastic. Be sure that the leaves are thoroughly washed before using. Leaves may also be frozen without losing their value. Another way to preserve them is to dry the flowers and leaves and store them in a dark, dry, and cool place. Try adding them to bath water to treat yeast infections. Or make your own dandelion tea (steep about 1 tablespoon of dried leaves in 1 cup hot water). Dandelion may also be purchased in powdered form, in capsules, and as a tincture.

Dandelion leaves and flowers are best fresh. However, they can be stored in the refrigerator for five days wrapped in plastic, or frozen for longer periods. Be sure to wash the leaves with water before you use them. Another way to preserve them is to dry the flowers or leaves and store them in a cool, dark, dry place. Some add them to their bath to treat yeast infections. Others use the dried plant to make their own dandelion tea (steep one tablespoon of dried leaves in one cup hot water). You can also purchase it in tinctures, capsules, and powdered form.