People hate dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) and classify them as dreaded weeds when in fact they are nature’s greatest medicine. Most people know what a dandelion looks like but to review, a dandelion has a single yellow flower atop a hollow smooth stalk. Smooth, serrated, bitter leaves grow out of the base. The root is quite long and can exude a white, milky sap.
Researchers at Kangwan National University in Korea reported in the January 2008 issue of the Journal of Ethnopharmacology that in lab tests the entire dandelion plant showed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Healthy Benefits from Dandelion Leaves and Roots
The spring leaves are especially pleasing in a salad mixed with other greens. The dandelion leaves are very nutritious – especially rich in potassium, calcium, iron, vitamin A and vitamin K. Dandelion leaves arouse the appetite and improve digestion by relieving constipation and gas. Promising research reported in the May 2008 issue of the International Journal of Oncology, found that in lab cultures dandelion leaves decreased the growth of breast and prostate cancer cells.
Researchers from the Czech University of Agriculture reported in 2004 that dandelion root tea stimulated 14 strains of bifidobacteria, a probiotic. Probiotics are living microorganisms that live in the intestines. They are first-rate for digestive health and counteract bad bacteria that causes diarrhea. In addition, dandelion roots tone and enhance the liver, helping it do two of its numerous jobs – purifying the blood of toxins and boosting bile production (the digestive juice that breaks down fats in the small intestine).
Dandelion roots affect the kidneys by acting as a natural diuretic, which means urine flow increases for those with water retention problems. Yet the all-important body-water balance between sodium and potassium is still maintained because the roots do not deplete potassium as most diuretics do. Moreover, the diuretic action of dandelion roots flushes out the urinary system and helps prevent the formation of gall bladder and kidney stones.
Dandelion Recipes for Tea, Coffee and Wine
Dandelion root tea – Purchase commercially or make yourself: Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of finely chopped root, with or without leaves, 1 cup of cold water and bring to a boil; simmer for 10 minutes then drain. (This tea is actually called a decoction.)
Dandelion coffee – Scrub roots, dry for several hours, and roast in a 350-degree oven until brown. Then use a coffee grinder and measure out 1 teaspoon per cup.
Dandelion wine – Wash 2 quarts flower heads, put in a bowl with 2 thinly sliced lemons and 2 oranges, pour in 1 gallon of boiling water, cover tightly, and let set for 10 days. Then strain and stir in 3 pounds of sugar, sprinkle ½ ounce yeast onto a slice of toast and float on top. Cover; set for 3 days, remove toast, strain. Pour into sterilized bottles, cork, and enjoy. (Adapted from Dandelion: Celebrating the Magical Blossom.)
Let Dandelions Thrive
The Chinese and Native Americans have traditionally used dandelions for health maintenance, and information passed through the American generations as folk lore. Researchers are just beginning to evaluate the medicinal qualities of the dandelion plant. Eat washed dandelion leaves raw, but be very observant where you pick them – not near roads or lawns that have been sprayed with chemicals.
This is an educational article only. Consult with a physician for liver, kidney and gall bladder problems.
Reference
“Fried Dandelion Flowers.” Suite 101, accessed May 5, 2009.
Wilensky, Amy. Dandelion: Celebrating the Magical Blossom. San Francisco: Council Oak Books, 2000.
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