Loaded with vitamins A, C, D and B, dandelions also contain iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium, boron and potassium. Powerful antioxidants in dandelions help fight cancer and heart disease.The use of dandelions isn't new. Chinese medical practitioners used them to treat digestive and low milk flow problems for nursing mothers. Europeans used it to treat and heal boils, diarrhea and fevers. Native Americans boiled dandelions and used the liquid to help cure kidney disease, skin problems and digestive disorders.
Dandelion is a rich source of iron. There is long history of use among herbalists to treat anemia with herb.
PMS and Bladder Infections
Dandelion is rich in potassium and will not deplete this important mineral like conventional diuretics.The dandelion root taken in capsule form or in tea can act as a gentle, natural diuretic by stimulating the kidneys and bladder to assist in excreting urine. Since it also contains potassium, the risk of losing too much of this valuable nutrient isn't as high as with synthetic diuretics. This also helps lower high blood pressure because it decreases the amount of fluid in the body.
Dandelion root is a mild bitter or appetite stimulant. Bitters aid in releasing digestive juices and bile. The increased juices aid in proper digestion and increased bile relieves constipation. Bulgarian studies published in the scientific publication Internal Disorders in 1981 found that dandelion root improved regularity and eliminated pain in 95 percent of IBS sufferers after 15 days of treatment. The dandelion root works to improve feelings of fullness, gas and constipation. It also has a mild laxative effect. Since it stimulates the elimination of waste and toxins, overall digestion will be improved.
Liver Problems and Gallstones
The bitters in dandelion increase bile flow and production in the liver. This increase helps those with sluggish liver function improve the state of their liver. It has a long history of use as a treatment for jaundice by herbalists and other natural health practitioners. Dandelion reduces the risk of developing gallstones. However, do not use dandelion if you already have gallstones.
Dandelion has abundant amounts of boron, which increases estrogen levels in the blood. Higher estrogen levels reduce bone loss. It is also high in calcium, which has been a well-established component of healthy bones.
Weight Loss
Dandelion as a weight loss aid is popular with European herbalists. Its diuretic effect reduces water weight. It can also assist the liver in regulating blood sugar, which prevents the binge eating accompanied by hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The increase in bile flow also aids in fat metabolism.
Dandelion root tea contains the B-complex vitamins, which help stabilize mood. Dandelion root tea may be recommended to those suffering from depression.