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The health benefits of dandelion

The health benefits of dandelion

The dandelion is very rich in vitamins C and D . It is found everywhere in our gardens and is also very well known as dent-de-lion. Dandelion still contains fatty acids, antioxidants, iron, manganese and calcium in good quantity. It is eaten in salads when young and is also used as a food supplement in many ailments.

History of the medicinal properties of dandelion

Just over 3,000 years ago, Arab doctors already described the virtues of dandelion and Native Americans also used it to treat certain ailments . Since then, dandelion has been used throughout the centuries for treatments in:

  • The gallbladder
  • The liver
  • Anaemia
  • Fever
  • Water retention
  • Some skin problems
  • Rheumatism

In China, Taraxacum mongolicum dandelion has been used for centuries in the most diverse pathologies such as:

  • Cancer
  • Hepatitis
  • Inflammation of the mammary glands
  • In respiratory infections
  • Strengthening the immune system
  • Certain respiratory tract infections

Take a dandelion cure

After talking to their doctor, people take dandelion cures as a dietary supplement when they suffer from:

  • Liver function disorders
  • Urinary stones
  • Gallstones
  • Minor digestive disorders

Use of dandelion

Dandelion is eaten in spring in blanched salad like spinach. We only use the tender young shoots . In the past, flowers were used to make wine fortifying . Dandelion can also be used instead of coffee by drying its root then roasting it.

Dosage

In herbal tea , it is possible to use dandelion leaves as an infusion. Three to four grams of dried leaves per cup are needed. It is possible to consume it three times a day. In mother tincture , the dosage is two to five ml per day. In liquid extract , just take one to two tablespoons three times a day.

The roots of the dandelion are used in decoction . It is enough to boil three to five grams for ten minutes in a bowl three times a day. There are also dandelion root extracts in tablets or capsules . It is possible to take between 750 and 1250 mg per day. Dandelion root tincture is still used. Follow the dosage indicated on the bottle.

Traditional use of dandelion

Thanks to minerals and vitamins contained in dandelion leaves and root, herbalists claim the plant to be beneficial to the hepatobiliary and digestive systems . This plant is also used for its diuretic power still unexplained to this day. At the same time, people using it as such, would have no loss of potassium through the kidneys in some animal studies.

Use of dandelion in a weight loss diet

When you want to lose weight, consuming dandelion can be helpful. Its diuretic properties help to promote elimination and drainage against cellulite and water retention . For a diet accompanied by dandelion, it is necessary to consume the plant daily in infusion or decoction.

Filter the liver

To cleanse the liver, dandelion is of great help. You have to bring a bowl of water to a boil and leave to macerate as many dried leaves in it for ten minutes. This drink is to be consumed three times a day. The roots can also be used in the same way at the rate of three to five grams per 150 ml bowl three times a day.

Note :these indications are given for information only and if a person has liver disease, they must consult their doctor before consuming these herbal teas and decoctions. If the consumption of dandelion drinks is allowed, it is advisable to take it before the main meals.

Precautions and contraindications

When someone has gallstones or there is an obstruction of the bile ducts due to stones, it is essential to see a doctor before taking dandelion. This plant is formally not recommended for people with allergies with plants of the Asteraceae family such as chicory for example, because they can also be sensitive to dandelion.

Adverse effects

Dandelion stems contain latex and can be an source of allergens . They cause skin allergies. Dandelion consumption can also cause heartburn and some nausea .

Possible interactions

If a person uses herbal diuretics, the effects of dandelion are added. The same is true when a person takes diuretic drugs .

All this information about dandelion is given as a guide only. When a person consumes dandelion, it is not recommended to abuse it , because it could disrupt its digestive system and experiencing diarrhea although dandelion gives very few side effects. On the other hand, consumed in reasonable quantities, dandelion is reputed to greatly improve the digestion of fats .