Benefits of Dandelion Root

Benefits of Dandelion

Well, how about a dandelion? You know what that is, right?

It’s that plant that has yellow flowers. And the flower head matures into an “achene”, which looks like a ball of fine hairs.

Kids love blowing those hairs into the wind. I know I did. Still do, actually.

Lawn owners and gardners think of dandelions as weeds. However, the leaves can be eaten. Dandelion leaves taste similar to endive---a little bitter. A dandelion salad makes a good lunch.

The leaves can also be cooked like spinach.

NOTE: Dandelion leaves are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, calcium, and iron. They’re a better source of calcium and iron than spinach. And they contain more beta carotene than carrots.

Dandelion Root for Better Health

In French, dandelion is pissenlit, which means “urinate in bed”. It has diuretic properties on the kidneys.

Pharmaceutical diuretics often deplete the body of potassium, but not so with dandelion. It supplies the body with vitamins and minerals.

Dandelion root also detoxes and reinvigorates the liver, improves digestion by promoting bile flow into the small intestine, and it's a laxative.

It's often used to treat hepatitis, yellow jaundice, and liver-related problems.
Did you know that poor liver function causes headaches?

In Europe, dandelion is considered a "liver tonic". It's a rich source of the nutrient lecithin, which is a big protector of the liver.

Side Effects of Dandelion Root

None to report.

However, these people shouldn’t take it:

• pregnant / nursing women

• people taking prescription diueretics

• people with gallstones

Consult your doctor for further advice.

Dandelion Root Extract
in a Supplement

Dandelion root should be standardized to contain 20 percent inuline; the active ingredient. Read the label carefully.

Since dandelion root primarily protects the liver, you'll usually find it only in specially formulated supplements.

The liver is very important. It's the most important organ in fighting disease, it breaks down fats, and it clears the blood of toxins.