Wild spring green pizza with dandelion… dandelion greens with
double garlic… creamy quesadillas with fresh greens and dandelion…
Yup, you heard right! Dandelions! Once considered a useless weed,
dandelions have shown fantastic health effects,
such as reducing inflammation and having the potential to help manage blood sugar levels.
Plus, there are so many ways to enjoy dandelions.
You don’t have to settle for just dandelion tea to get this plant's excellent health benefits.
Are you interested in the wonderful health benefits dandelions may be hiding? In today’s
video, we’ll be discussing just this and more. So, settle in and keep watch until the end…
1. Dandelions are packed with nutrients Dandelions offer a wealth of nutrients
in both their roots and flowers. Whichever part you eat, you'll benefit from essential vitamins,
minerals, and a reasonable fiber content. Enjoy dandelions in various ways—cooked
or raw. They serve as an excellent natural source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with folates and
a satisfying array of essential B vitamins. Dandelions also boast a good mineral profile
featuring magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium, all of which benefit your body's requirements.
Should you opt for the dandelion root, you'll obtain a generous supply of soluble fiber,
further enhancing its nutritional value. This can help improve gut bacteria and keep your digestive
system working optimally. 2. Has antioxidants
Dandelions are packed with antioxidants. It is one of the reasons why dandelions
are considered to have medicinal properties. If there are too many free radicals in your body,
they can cause oxidative stress. This would cause damage to your cells and result in
chronic diseases. Antioxidants help get rid of the free radicals in your body.
Dandelions have a good amount of the antioxidant beta-carotene. This antioxidant is particularly
effective against oxidative stress. It helps make sure there is no damage to your cells.
Dandelions also have an antioxidant called polyphenols. This antioxidant is primarily
contained in the flower. But some traces can be found in the roots and leaves as
well. Research has found that eating diets rich in plant polyphenols for a long time
can help protect against the development of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes,
and neurodegenerative diseases. Yet another reason to munch on green
dandelion salad. Isn’t it? 3. Fights inflammation
The polyphenols present in dandelions also help reduce inflammation. Although
inflammation is a normal response from the body to infection or injury, it shouldn’t be
a long-term issue. If you have inflammation for a more extended period, there's more of a risk
that it will damage your tissues permanently. A test tube study conducted using dandelion
extract showed that cells treated with the dandelion had much lower markers for inflammation.
Another study was conducted on mice that had an inflammatory lung disease. The results
showed that the group of mice that were given dandelion significantly reduced inflammation.
Still in doubt? Maybe the following benefit on our list will make you order
dandelion root instantly. 4. Helps manage blood sugar
If you want to try natural ways to manage blood sugar levels, try dandelion.
It has two compounds named chicoric and chlorogenic acids. These compounds are
effective in reducing your blood sugar levels. These compounds help regulate blood sugar levels
by improving the production of insulin. Insulin is the hormone responsible for helping regulate
your blood sugar levels. It also helps make sure your muscles get the glucose they need.
The polyphenols in them help boost insulin production, improving how sensitive your body
is to insulin. This means your blood sugar levels stay nice and steady, just the way they should be!
Studies on animals have shown that chicoric and chlorogenic acids reduce the digestion
of starchy foods. This further enabled the body to regulate blood sugar levels.
5. Lowers cholesterol levels Dandelion has compounds that can be
effective in reducing your cholesterol levels. They also help bring down triglyceride levels.
If either or both are at a higher level, it can increase the risk of heart-related issues.
A test tube study used dandelion extracts from the fruit and leaf.
The results showed a marked decrease in triglyceride accumulation in the fat cells.
An animal study was conducted on rats using dandelion leaf extract for four weeks.
The results showed the dandelion helped bring down both the triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
Another study was conducted on rabbits that were given a high-cholesterol diet. When
dandelion roots and leaves were given to the rabbits, their cholesterol levels dropped.
High cholesterol levels can be very dangerous to your health. You should also check out this video
to learn more about foods that help lower your blood cholesterol levels naturally.
6. Improves liver health Dandelion extract is also
believed to help with liver issues. A study was conducted on mice that
were exposed to sodium dichromate. This is a compound that causes liver injury. The results
showed that the mice given dandelion extract were more protected against liver damage.
Other animal studies have also shown the effectiveness of dandelion extract.
The extract helped bring down any excess fat accumulated in the liver.
It also helps in preventing oxidative stress. 7. Helps in reducing weight
Looking to shed a few pounds? Try dandelions. They have a few compounds that can aid your weight loss
regime. This is because dandelions can increase your metabolism and reduce fat absorption.
Although more research is needed, current animal studies have shown certain promising effects.
One particular study was conducted on mice using dandelion extract.
The results showed the compounds present in dandelion cut down on fat absorption.
This, in turn, helps with weight management. Another study in mice focused on the chlorogenic
acid present in dandelion. The results showed that it helped reduce weight and even changed
some proteins connected with weight control. It also reduced fat accumulation in the mice.
8. Can help prevent cancer While dandelion has many health
benefits, perhaps it's more impressive benefit is its potential effects in preventing cancer.
Certain compounds, like polyphenols, present in dandelions can ensure cancerous cells stop
growing and spreading in various organs. Though research on the impact of dandelion
on cancer cells in humans is underway, studies on animals have raised hope.
One such study was conducted on rats for four weeks. The results showed that giving
dandelion extract helped modify the pathways that helped stop the growth of breast cancer cells.
Test tube studies have also been conducted to determine dandelion’s anti-cancer properties. The
results showed dandelion extract can also slow the spread of cancer cells in the liver and stomach.
9. Helps with constipation Dandelion is commonly used in
traditional medicine. This is especially true when treating cases of indigestion and constipation.
A study was conducted on rats to see the effect of dandelion extract. The results
showed that the rate at which stomach contractions occurred and the rate at
which the stomach emptied increased significantly. The root of the dandelion is an excellent source
of inulin. It is a prebiotic fiber that can help reduce constipation. It also helps improve your
digestive system and the movement of food. For every cup of cooked dandelion, which
comes to 105 grams, you can get 3 grams of fiber. The more fiber you have in your diet, the better
your bowel movements will be. Dietary fiber also helps reduce the risk of certain digestive issues,
such as hemorrhoids. 10. Helps boost immunity
Dandelions have compounds that have antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
These compounds can help your body fight off any infections it may be exposed to.
Several test tube studies have shown that dandelion extracts can prevent a virus from
replicating itself. This way, dandelions make sure your immune system remains strong. Research has
also shown some active compounds in dandelions that keep your body free from bacteria attacks.
11. Keeps bones healthy Dandelion is packed with essential nutrients
such as vitamin K and calcium. These nutrients are key to keeping your bones healthy and strong.
The inulin found in dandelions is also good for your bones. This insoluble
fiber keeps your gut health in check and improves your digestive system.
Research shows that eating foods high in vitamin K is good for your bone health as they lower the
levels of the protein osteocalcin. Eating more leafy vegetables like dandelion will help prevent
bone loss. Dandelion also prevents your bones from feeling the effects of oxidative stress.
Possible Side Effects Of Dandelion So, now that we've learned about all the fantastic
health benefits of dandelion, does that mean we can start including it in our diet right away?
Well, not just yet! Only after you learn about the possible side effects of this healing plant.
Experts believe dandelion is a low-toxicity plant and is relatively safe for consumption.
But you have to keep in mind that the available research on the potential
benefits of dandelion is still limited. This means Dandelion isn’t entirely risk-free.
People prone to allergies need to be cautious while eating dandelions. It can cause allergic
reactions in people, especially those who are allergic to plants like ragweed.
If you have sensitive skin, handle dandelions with care, as it can cause contact dermatitis.
Few studies have found dandelions to be capable of interfering with medications like anticoagulants,
antibiotics, and blood sugar drugs. If you are getting treated for any of these chronic diseases,
please consult your healthcare provider first before including dandelion in your daily diet.
Another thing that might be causing some confusion is the recommended
daily intake of dandelion. Right? Experts suggest different dosages
for different forms of dandelion. Eating 4 to 10 grams of fresh or dried dandelion leaves
daily is safe. If you opt for fresh roots, take no more than 8 grams daily. Fresh dandelion leaf
juice is another choice you have, but make sure you take only 1 teaspoon twice daily,
which is about 5 milliliters one time. In the case of dried dandelion powder, you are free to take
250 to 1000 milligrams four times a day. There is no doubt that dandelions have
some impressive health benefits. But what about other herbs, like rosemary?
Are you curious about several other herbs and spices with impressive health impacts?
Why not watch a video or two to learn more… Watch 7 Herbs & Spices With The Most Powerful
Health Benefits Or
This Is What Happens When You Eat Rosemary Every Day
Go ahead, click one. Or better yet, watch both and learn more about the health benefits of herbs and
spices. Are you planning on including dandelion in your diet? Let us know in the comments below!