Dandelion: 10 properties and benefits of this plant

Dandelion is a very unique medicinal plant. It has a small, showy yellow flower that can easily grow in the garden, especially in temperate climates. It is highly appreciated by flower growers for its ease of production and rapid growth.

But in addition to its ornamental attributes it has other uses related to health. It is edible and is used in infusions, soups and salads, although the most impressive thing about dandelion are the properties and benefits it has and which are known from traditional medicine.

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Dandelion: 10 properties and benefits of this plant

Dandelion is a very old plant. Its appearance on Earth dates back 30 million years, and traditional medicine has used it to treat various diseases with effective results.

The properties and benefits of dandelion are known throughout the world, so the main health benefits of this plant are shown below. Its high content of phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals stands out.

1. Prevents anemia

Dandelion is an effective alternative to prevent anemia, and is that its iron content is even higher than that found in spinach. It is for this reason that this plant is used as an auxiliary treatment for anemia caused by the lack of production of red blood cells.

Iron concentrations in the body must reach certain concentrations. This ensures that hemoglobin can be formed, but if there is not enough iron supply the red blood cells cannot be produced.

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2. Relieves some skin conditions

Dandelion is used topically to relieve eczema or itching. The dandelion has among its properties and benefits that of acting on the skin and neutralizing conditions because its sap is alkaline and acts as a germicide.

In these cases, its use is external and can be applied to the affected area. For this, an infusion with a high concentrate of dandelion is previously made. A cloth is dipped in and it can already be applied to take advantage of the benefits of dandelion topically.

3. Maintains good liver function

One of the best properties and benefits of dandelion is that it improves liver function. The antioxidants, iron, inulin and saponins that this plant contains work as detoxifiers, maintaining the purity of the blood.

It also works by guaranteeing the correct flow of bile, so that liver processes are favored. To enjoy these benefits of this plant, it is recommended to consume the extract of the dandelion root.

4. Control sugar levels

Dandelion is also used to help control diabetes. Consuming this plant concentrate is very effective in stimulating insulin production, thereby reducing blood sugar levels.

In addition, dandelion has diuretic properties, which can be of great help for people with diabetes by stimulating the release of sugar in the urine. The ideal is to consume it in extract or infusion.

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5. Fight acne

Dandelion can be used in acne treatments. The diuretic, antioxidant, detoxifying and stimulant properties are used to combat hormonal imbalances that cause acne.

You can drink a dandelion extract juice and also put cloths on the affected area previously dipped in the infusion of this plant. This also promotes sweating, facilitating the release of toxins from the body.

6. Regulates the functioning of the digestive system

Consuming dandelion helps the proper functioning of the digestive system. Its compounds act as a digestive tonic, strengthening all the organs related to the digestive process. Not only on the stomach but also the intestines.

For cases of gastritis, constipation, and excessive gas, dandelion can be consumed daily in infusion or extracts. Another of the properties and benefits of dandelion for episodes of constipation is that it acts as a mild laxative.

7. Contributes to eye health

Dandelion helps fight age-related eye problems. The American Optometric Association recommends the daily consumption of 12 milligrams of zeaxanthin and lutein every day. This helps reduce the risks of cataracts and macular degeneration.

Both of these problems are common in the elderly, and the risks of suffering from them have been shown to be greatly reduced by consuming lutein and zeaxanthin. These components are found in high concentration in a single cup of dandelion tea.

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8. Eliminates fluid retention

Another of the properties of dandelion is that it is an effective diuretic. Due to different causes, the body can accumulate fluid in the body and cause swelling and discomfort, as well as a significant increase in weight.

Consuming extract or infusion of dandelion helps to eliminate water through urine. For this reason, it is also recommended as an aid in weight loss treatments, since toxins and small amounts of fat are eliminated through urine.

9. Helps maintain a good mood

Dandelion is also an ally against depression. This plant contains antioxidant compounds and B vitamins, which help maintain a good mood.

Due to these properties and benefits, dandelion can be an excellent aid in treatments against depression. It is also recommended to use it frequently as a nutritional supplement; This helps maintain energy and good spirits.

10. Supports bone health

One of the properties and benefits of dandelion is in strengthening bones. As mentioned, this plant has a high content of iron and calcium, as well as vitamin C and luteolin.

Thanks to these substances, frequent consumption of dandelion helps to strengthen bones. It has the ability to slow down the deterioration process of the bone system associated with age thanks to its antioxidant properties.

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Bibliographic references

• Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments. DK Pub.

• Tannenbaum, C., Farrell, B., Shaw, J., Morgan, S., Trimble, J., Currie, J., et al. (2017). An ecological approach to reducing potentially inappropriate medication use: Canadian Deprescribing Network. Can J Aging, 36 (1), 97–107.

• Vorobyev, G., Alyabyev, A., Ogorodnikova, T., Khamidullin, A. and Vorobyev, V. (2014). Adaptive properties of the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale Wigg. s.l.) under conditions of air pollution by motor vehicle exhausts ". Russian Journal of Ecology. 45 (2): 90–94.