Dandelion, in general, is considered as a pesky weed among your favorite blooms that adorn your lawn. Nevertheless, how many of you know that it is a potential source of vitamin C, beta-carotene, fiber, assorted minerals, and much more. Touted to be a wonder herb in ancient Chinese medicine, the roots of dandelion have been used to improve the quality and quantity of milk in breastfeeding mothers. Along with being a natural blood purifying agent, dandelion roots are also known to offer remedy for gallstones, piles, and other stomach disorders. Before taking you through the goodness of the roots of this plant, here is short preview about the plant.
The dandelion plant is a hardy and perennial shrub growing in temperate regions. Its thick, long taproot has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Botanically, it belongs to the Asteraceae family and is scientifically known as Taraxacum officinale. Dandelion has been revered since ancient times as one the most sought-after herbs. The Native Americans used the roots to treat kidney disease, stomach problems and skin disorders.
The entire plant is used in the herbal remedies- roots, flowers and leaves. Dandelion root is dark brown, stout and fleshy with a white pulp. The root contains bitter milky latex, which is more concentrated in the leaves and stems. The roots are harvested every year in summer for medicinal purposes.
Dandelion is a rich source of beta-carotene, which gets converted into vitamin A in the body. This flowering plant is a rich source of Vitamin C, fiber, potassium, iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc and phosphorus. It also contains trace amounts of Vitamin D, B complex vitamins and organic sodium. Dandelion provides more than 300 % of the daily-recommended amount of Vitamin A.
Dandelion herb greens (Taraxacum officinale), Fresh,Dandelion root contains several biologically active components, which makes it beneficial for the health. Some of the benefits include:
A good source of fiber, it stimulates appetite, promotes digestion, and also acts as a gentle laxative. It balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines, promoting intestinal health. In addition to this, dandelion roots maintain the flow of bile and stimulates the liver, promoting digestion. This prevents the onset of gastrointestinal diseases.
The diuretic properties of dandelion are so strong that it is called “pissenlit” in France, which means urinating in bed. This herb helps to flush out the wastes, salts, and excess water from the body, thereby preventing the formation of kidney stones. It also inhibits microbial growth in the urinary system, thus shielding the urinary system from various infections.
Luteolin, present in this plant, improves the functioning of liver, thwarting off ageing. The roots contain choline, a liver stimulant, which helps to treat liver hemorrhage. The Vitamin C and luteolin in dandelion root fights viral infection in the liver, preventing jaundice. Take dandelion with sugarcane juice to cure jaundice. It also maintains fluid balance in the body.
Dandelion is a rich source of Vitamin K. It provides more than 600% of the recommended value of Vitamin K. The high levels of vVtamin K in dandelion roots fight neuron damage in the brain, preventing Alzheimer’s disease.
Dandelion contains zeaxanthin, a carotenoid that protects the retina from the UV rays. Regular consumption of dandelion juice also prevents macular degeneration.
Dandelion is a storehouse of fabulous antioxidants that safeguard the DNA and cells from damages caused by free radicals, thus slowing down the ageing process of cells. Dandelion root fights off the microbes and fungi, thus strengthens the immune system. It acts as a tonic for the immunity, destroying acids and other harmful substances in the body. It is very good for people suffering from the nutritive salt deficiency.
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