Dandelion more commonly known as an annoying weed is indeed being proven by scientists to be a valuable herb for healing various digestive system related problems.
Dandelion is believed to be rich in various nutrients such as B complex, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, zinc and potassium. Extracts from dandelion was used by the Americans for treating problems of the liver, kidney and upset stomach while the Chinese traditional
medicine followers used the same to treat breast problems and appendicitis. Today dandelion is used as an appetite stimulant and a diuretic.
Plant Description:
There are a hundred varieties of
dandelion which grow across the temperate regions of Europe, Asia and the United states. They grow up to a maximum length of twelve inches and have grooved leaves which allow for the flow of rainwater to the roots. Being sensitive to light, the leaves open in the presence of the sun and close at sunset. The roots are brown and fleshy and contain a liquid which slightly produces an odor and is milky white in color.
Medicinal Use:
Dandelion leaves are natural diuretics which increase urine production and the roots are used to stimulate the appetite. Dandelions are used in the treatment of a wide range of diseases such as liver malfunction, improper digestion, loss of appetite and high blood pressure. One aspect where the use of
dandelion as diuretic scores better than synthetic diuretics is that dandelion is rich in potassium, a mineral which is often lost from the body when we use synthetic diuretics. The roots of dandelions are used as a laxative to improve digestion. Some studies support the view that
dandelions normalize blood sugar levels in animals. However the same has not been proved yet for humans and hence the use of dandelions for diabetes is still a debatable topic.
Dosage:
Children: The recommended adult dose must be reduced as a proportion to the child’s weight.
Adults: The dosage depends on the form in which the herb is taken. For example, if it is taken in the form of dried leaf infusion, a ten gram dosage can be taken thrice a day.
Precautions:
• Herbs can sometimes interact with other herbs and cause reactions in the body. Hence it is advisable to taken dandelion herbs under medical supervision.
• No side effects are usually present when one consumes herbs. However some people may develop an allergy when they come in physical contact with the plant or develop sores in the mouth when they consume it.
