The Health Benefits of Dandelion
Knowing the health benefits of dandelion may make you take a different look at those dandelions growing in your yard. Their nutritional and medicinal value is very high -- ninth best of all vegetables including grains and fourth best of all herbs.
Dandelions are rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, lecithin, niacin, phosphorus and zinc as well as vitamins A, D, C, and several of the B vitamins.
The potassium content of dandelion greens makes them an excellent diuretic - good for high blood pressure and other heart problems. The diuretic effect also relieves the water retention caused by PMS.
Dandelion can also be used for:
Dandelions contain the fatty acids, linoleic and linolenic acid, which helps regulate blood pressure. These acids also reduce inflammation and therefore are useful for treating arthritis.
The pectin content of dandelion makes it useful for treating diarrhea. The pectin plus the vitamin C in dandelion is important for lowering cholesterol.
Dandelion is good for diabetics because it contains Inulin which converts to fructose in the stomach and can form glycogen in the liver without insulin.
Dandelion sap or milk is said to remove warts over time.
All parts of the dandelion are used -- the leaves, stems, sap, roots, and even flowers. While the flowers are not eaten, they are used to make dandelion wine. Dandelion leaves, when picked young, are used in salads and soups. Dandelion roots when roasted are used to make a coffee like drink. Dandelion capsules and dandelion extract are available at health food stores.
Some people may have an allergic reaction to the sap. Anyone with bile duct obstruction or gall bladder problems should not use dandelion. Anyone taking lithium, diruetics, or are suffering from hypoglycemia should not use dandelion. As with most herbs, consult with your physician before using dandelion for treatment.
Go ahead! Enjoy the health benefits of dandelion by adding them to your diet. It's one of those foods that is good for what ails you.
More Information:
Herbal Remedies for Constipation Home Remedies for Upset Stomach Foods That Lower Blood Pressure
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