Dandelions. Weeds or Liquid Gold?!?

Most people see dandelions as pesky little weeds in their yards but what they don't know is that those pesky little yellow flowers you see in your yard actually have all kinds of health benefits. Botanists consider dandelions to be herbs. People use the leaves, stems, flowers, and roots of the dandelion for medicinal purposes.

Topical Use or Ingested

Whether you use the Dandelion topically or ingest it the health benefits are many, just to name a few.

1. Reducing Cholesterol

2. Regulating Blood Sugar

3. Reducing Inflammation

4. Lowering Blood Pressure

5. Boost Metabolism and Immune System

6. Aides Digestion

7. Keeps Skin Healthy

8. And many more...

Packed full of Antioxidants, Vitamins, and Minerals

Antioxidants work to neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. The human body produces free radicals naturally, but they cause harm by accelerating aging or the progression of certain diseases.

Dandelions contain beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Research shows that carotenoids such as beta-carotene play a vital role in reducing cell damage.

The flower of the dandelion is also full of polyphenols, which are another type of antioxidant

The root is particularly rich in Mineral Concentration, some of the minerals packed in this little flower are Iron, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium. These minerals will hydrate the tissues and support the function of the skin and help fight free radicals. Dandelions contain Vitamin A, C, and K. They also contain Vitamin E, Folate, and small amounts of other B Vitamins. In addition to that, they are Antifungal and Germicidal!

This little weed or Herb packs a powerful punch!

In traditional Chinese and Native American medicine, dandelion root has long been used to treat stomach and liver conditions. Herbalists today believe that it can aid in the treatment of many ailments, including acne, eczema, high cholesterol, heartburn, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes. Some of the claims are better supported by research than others.

Helps to Reduce Inflammation

The fact that dandelion contains certain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols means that it could prove useful when it comes to fighting inflammation. Some studies indicate that dandelion extracts and compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body. In one 2014 study, researchers found that chemicals present in dandelions had some positive effects on reducing inflammatory responses.

Keeping Skin Healthy

Dried dandelion root is often ground into a paste and mixed with water to create a soothing paste for skin disorders like acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, and boils.

While there is little evidence that dandelion can treat these conditions better or faster than leaving the skin alone, it does appear to have anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itching) properties.

Research also suggests that it may help prevent sun damage. A 2015 study from Canada reported that dandelion extracts are able to block harmful ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation when applied to the skin, protecting it from sun damage and lowering the risk of skin cancer. Protecting the skin from UV damage can help a person look younger for longer.

The polyphenols in the dandelion extract helps to improve collagen production in the skin. As a result, the therapy enhances the natural plumpness and firmness of your epidermis. Dandelion is also high in antioxidants. These antioxidants work in your bloodstream to remove free radicals. Free radicals are dangerous particles that cause cell oxidation resulting in the signs of aging. When free radicals build up in the bloodstream, it results in the signs of aging, such as wrinkles and lines in the face. 

Aids in Digestion

One of the best reasons for using dandelion extracts is to improve the immune response. More than 70% of the immune system lies within the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, by improving the health of your digestive system, you can increase your immune response and help yourself avoid disease.

Dandelion is full of fiber and nutrients. Dandelion greens are an excellent source of soluble fiber, and you can eat them in salads or add them to morning smoothies to gain the nutrients from the fresh greens. Dandelions can help increase pancreatic secretions, and they can help the liver in a similar way, allowing it to expel waste much more effectively and speedily than without.

Boosts Immune System

As mentioned, more than 70% of the immune system resides in the gut. As a result, it’s very critical that we take care of our digestive health to boost our immune system. When we have a low immune system, we are more exposed to contracting viruses and bacteria that can cause harm to our health. By boosting the immune system, you prevent pathogens from replicating in the body, allowing the immune system to expel them before they have a chance to colonize and create severe illnesses.

People that have low immune function are often sick, and they are at high risk of developing severe diseases or complications from minor illnesses. One of the best ways to boost the immune system is with dandelion plant extract. The fresh plant extract is excellent in building the health of the immune system. Adding a few drops to your diet every day is all it takes to increase your immune response and avoid getting sick during the annual flu season. 

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It might surprise you to find out that dandelion can be effective in helping with so many things. It really is quite a remarkable little plant. So is it a Weed or Liquid Gold, I will let you decide!