What is Dandelion?
Dandelion is a perennial plant characterized by a large yellow flower which then turns into pappus. The dandelion is a wild flower that can be found in the city as well as in the countryside. Also called dent-de-lion (Taraxacum dens leonis), dandelion has been known for its health benefits for thousands of years.
It is found in natural treatments in the Arab world, in India, in traditional Chinese medicine and in several European countries. Its name, “piss-in-bed” originally, comes from its diuretic properties.
What are the benefits of dandelion?
Dandelion has many benefits and can relieve many ailments.
- Rich in iron and potassium, it helps fight against fatigue and contributes to the proper functioning of the body.
- The dandelion is known for its diuretic virtues which promote the elimination of water in case of retention, edema or cellulitis, but also to stimulate the secretion and evacuation of bile (choleretic and cholagogue action), which makes it a fairly popular depurative.
- We find in the roots of dandelion a natural fiber called inulin, which acts on the digestive system. It allows to reactivate the transit and thus to fight against bloating and constipation (it is a prebiotic fiber).
- In addition, the polyphenols contained in the flower have antioxidant propertieswhich allows the body to be less prone to certain cardiovascular pathologies.
- Eaten raw, the dandelion is also a source of vitamin Aof vitamin C or even of vitamins B6 And B9. These vitamins contribute to the development and functioning of the body, protect against cell aging and preserve the skin.
- Dandelion is finally used as part of a cure for rheumatism, because it is rich in calcium, silica and sulfur. Its remineralizing action is also interesting to fight against periodontal disease.
How to eat dandelion?
All parts of the dandelion are useful, and each of them has virtues.
- For example, we use the dandelion leaves in infusion, in particular to relieve arthritis. It can also be consumed in the form of mother tincture, to relieve digestive problems. Dandelion leaf juice can be drunk in small quantities to fight against water retention.
- It is also possible to consume dandelion roots to treat various ailments. The decoction of the dried roots eliminates toxins from the body by allowing hepatic drainage, among other benefits. They can also be found in the form of tablets or mother tincture in order to make food supplements.
- It is finally possible to consume the raw dandelion flowers in salads to benefit from its various nutritional contributions.
Are there any contraindications to dandelion?
It is not recommended to consume dandelion for people suffering from obstruction of the bile ducts, liver disorders, ulcers or even kidney failure.
In any case, it is important not to carry out a dandelion cure that is too long, and to limit it to a few weeks.
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