Overview
The
dandelion has been a staple of the traditional herbal
pharmacopeia for centuries. In Europe, the dandelion is still
respected as the nutritional and medicinal powerhouse that it
is, and here in the United States we are beginning to rediscover
the benefits of including dandelion and dandelion root in our
diets.
Among
other things, dandelion root and other plants of the dandelion
have been used as a gentle laxative, a digestive aid, to treat
liver and kidney problems and to relieve inflammation, boils,
fever and diarrhea. Dandelion root is known to stimulate the
appetite and promote digestion. While the dandelion is still
regarded as a noxious weed here in the United States, in Europe
dandelion greens are often added to salads and used in the same
way as lettuce and other greens, and dandelion root is believed
to help regulate blood sugar levels.
What
Dandelion Root Does:
Dandelion root provides vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D and
vitamin B complex, as well as zinc, iron and potassium. Because
of its iron content, it is widely used as a remedy for liver
ailments, and has a diuretic effect that can help rid the liver
of toxins. Potassium is also necessary for proper kidney
function, and can help lower blood pressure. Vitamins A, C and
B complex are all important for heart health, and there is some
suggestion that dandelion root may help lower cholesterol.
Health
Benefits of Dandelion Root:
Dandelion root is often used as a liver tonic. Among the health
benefits attributed to dandelion root are:
-
Dandelion root functions as a mild diuretic. Because
potassium is often lost when using a diuretic, dandelion
root is often a better choice for a diuretic than synthetic
formulas.
-
Because of its high iron and zinc content, dandelion root is
often used as a treatment for anemia.
-
Dandelion root has mild laxative properties and is often
used to help maintain regularity.
-
Dandelion root is also a mild appetite stimulant, and teas
made from dandelion root and leaves are often used to help
relieve digestive problems like flatulence, fullness and
constipation.
-
In
Europe, dandelion root is highly regarded as a ‘liver
tonic’.
-
Dandelion root is high in Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin A
and the B complex vitamins, all of which have antioxidant
properties. For this reason, a number of ongoing studies
are examining its effectiveness in fighting tumors and
preventing cancer. The early results are mixed, but
promising.
-
There are also a number of studies examining the potential
of dandelion root to lower cholesterol. Early results of at
least one study show that dandelion root supplements may
affect the cholesterol profile in diabetic mice positively
by lowering LDL and triglycerides while increasing HDL.
Again, research is in the early stages, and not all studies
show the same promising results. It could, however, be an
excellent addition to the diet to help keep total
cholesterol and sugar levels within normal ranges.
-
The
B vitamin family in particular helps stabilize moods and is
often recommended to those suffering from depression.
Dandelion root is a high source of B complex vitamins.
-
Because of its positive effects on the liver and digestion,
dandelion root may help boost the effectiveness of other
vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
Possible
Side Effects of Dandelion Root
When
taken as directed, dandelion root has shown no harmful side
effects, though there have been rare reported cases of an
allergy to dandelions. In addition, those taking pharmaceutical
doses of lithium should not take dandelion root preparations
without consulting a doctor as some studies have suggested that
dandelion may increase the side effects of lithium.
Summary
Dandelion root has a long history in traditional medicine as an
all-around digestive aid and beneficial liver preparation, and
modern research is confirming a good deal of what’s been
accepted in other cultures. Because dandelion root promotes
good digestion, it’s an excellent addition to health and
nutritional supplement products that provide other vitamins,
minerals and enzymes.
