Dandelion is possibly the most famous, yet least understood of all medicinal herbs. Common in many backyards across the globe, often played with by children and usually considered to be a weed, the dandelion has left most completely unaware of its excellent array of both medicinal and culinary uses.
Description
The Dandelion (Taraxacum officindale), a hardy perennial herb, is also referred to as swine’s snout and royal herb and is a member of the daisy family.
Originally from Europe and Asia, dandelion is currently found across almost every corner of the world. The spread of dandelion is generally attributed to its hardy nature and strong ability to reproduce and send its tiny seeds floating large distances in the wind.
Dandelion is in most cases invasive and is classed as a noxious weed in many areas.
When in bloom, the dandelion bears its distinctive small yellow flowers made up entirely of petals.
In the past, dandelion has been used in the treatment of various illnesses by the ancient Chinese and Europeans.
The medicinal benefits of Dandelion
It is astounding that there are so many medicinal benefits of dandelion considering that it is such a common plant. Although specific cultivars are preferred for medicinal use, most types do possess these properties to a reasonable extent.
A rich source of vitamins and minerals
It is astounding that there are so many medicinal benefits of dandelion considering that it is such a common plant. Although specific cultivars are preferred for medicinal use, most types do possess these properties to a reasonable extent.
Skin cleansing properties
When used externally, dandelion has very strong cleansing characteristics that are known to benefit various skin problems and conditions such as eczema and acne. Regular external use of dandelion as a skin cleanser can clean out pores and add vitality to the skin leaving it generally cleaner and healthier in appearance.
A diuretic
The Dandelion has reasonable diuretic properties. A Diuretic is a drug that stimulates the kidneys to produce urine, in turn clearing out the bladder and urinary tract. Urinary infections and other similar problems such as thrush can be treated using dandelion as a diuretic. Water should be consumed regularly to help the dandelion do its job properly.
A substitute for coffee
Yes, it’s true! Dandelion, when made into a tea has a similar flavour to coffee, and even resembles its colour.
For those who have issues with caffeine, or who drink too much coffee (which is generally unhealthy), dandelion tea is a brilliant alternative.
Drinking an excessive amount of coffee can have side effects such as anxiety, nausea, excessive sweating and headaches, so why not try some dandelion tea instead?
Cleanse your liver
The use of dandelion can be of high advantage to your liver as it has the ability to cleanse the liver by increasing the rate at which it can function.
Reducing blood pressure
Dandelion has been known to lower or even prevent high blood pressure. Studies have also shown that the regular use of dandelion can reduce the risk of stroke. It is always extremely important to consult your doctor when dealing with blood pressure issues. Although other treatments may be better suited to blood pressure problems than dandelion in some people, dandelion can be used as an aid to most treatments.
Appetite stimulant
Dandelion has been known to stimulate the appetite, which can be beneficial in the treatment of some eating disorders, or helpful to those who are just trying to gain weight for any reason.
Digestion aid
When made into a tea, dandelion is an excellent remedy to aid in the digestion of food as it encourages the body’s natural digestive process. The tea can also be consumed to help prevent heartburn.
During pregnancy
There is no question as to the benefits of taking dandelion during pregnancy.
Aside from the obvious advantages of vitamins and minerals, it has been said that dandelion may be able to prevent birth defects that occur in unborn babies. Dandelion tea is thought to encourage milk production and relieve sore, tender breasts caused by breastfeeding.
Performance enhancer
For those who participate in sports, dandelion can be of high benefit aiding in stamina and endurance. Dandelion encourages the body to build up energy and is loaded with nutrients, allowing the user to carry on longer and stay focused.
Insect bites
When rubbed over insect bites and stings such as those from mosquitos and ants, dandelion is known to reduce inflammation and often reduces pain and itchiness as well. Users have said that after rubbing a dandelion based solution over a fresh bite or sting, symptoms were reduced almost immediately.
Other common uses of the dandelion plant
Skincare
Dandelion is sometimes used as an addition to skincare products such as exfoliates and cleansers due to its ability to improve the overall condition of the skin.
Usually, it is added to a solution in the form of essential oil, although on occasion it has been utilised in a powder like form. The oil is extremely rich in vitamins a, c, d and e and is said to have powerful effects on the skin.
Culinary uses
Fresh dandelion leaves can be used as a flavoursome culinary herb in the kitchen. The leaves of the dandelion are very bitter and can seem almost inedible to some people, and so blanching is often preferred in order to reduce the bitter flavour.
Once the dandelion leaves have been blanched they make a nice addition to an evening meal as a vegetable. Thinly sliced dandelion roots can be added to a salad to create an interesting new flavour. When using dandelion in any recipe you gain all of the medicinal benefits, while enjoying the food as well.
Tea
Dandelion tea is constantly growing in popularity, and often served with milk, cream, honey or sugar just as a normal tea or coffee would be.
Tea is usually the preferred method for taking dandelion internally.
Many say that after drinking dandelion tea, they feel revitalised and full of energy.
