Dandelion is a very unique medicinal plant.. It has a small showy yellow flower that can easily grow in the garden, especially in temperate climates. It is highly prized by flower growers for its ease of production and accelerated growth.
But in addition to its ornamental attributes, it has other health-related uses. It is edible and is used in infusions, soups and salads, although the most impressive thing about dandelion is the properties and benefits it has and that are known by traditional medicine.
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Dandelion: 10 properties and benefits of this plant.
The dandelion is a very ancient plant.. Its appearance on Earth dates back 30 million years ago, and traditional medicine has used it to treat various diseases with effective results.
The properties and benefits of dandelion are known worldwide, so the following are the main health benefits of this plant. Its high content in phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals is outstanding.
1. Prevents anemia
Dandelion is an effective alternative to prevent anemia.Its iron content is even higher than that found in spinach. It is for this reason that this plant is used as an auxiliary treatment for anemia caused by the lack of red blood cell production.
Iron concentrations in the body must reach certain concentrations. This ensures that hemoglobin can be formed, but if there is not enough iron in the body, red blood cells cannot be produced.
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2. Relieves some skin conditions
Dandelion is used topically to relieve eczema or itching.. Dandelion has among its properties and benefits to act on the skin and neutralize conditions because its sap is alkaline and acts as a germicide.
In these cases, its use is external and can be applied on the affected area. To do this, an infusion with a high concentrate of dandelion is made beforehand. A cloth is dipped and can be applied to take advantage of the benefits of dandelion topically.
3. Maintains good liver function
One of the best properties and benefits of dandelion is that it improves liver function.. The antioxidants, iron, inulin and saponins contained in this plant work as detoxifiers maintaining the purity of the blood.
It also acts by ensuring the proper flow of bile, so that the liver processes are favored. To enjoy these benefits of this plant, it is recommended to consume the dandelion root extract.
4. Controls sugar levels
Dandelion is also used to help control diabetes.. The consumption of the concentrate of this plant is very effective in stimulating the production of insulin, thus reducing blood sugar levels.
In addition, dandelion has diuretic properties, which can be of great help to diabetics by stimulating the output of sugar in urine. Ideally, it should be consumed as an extract or infusion.
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5. Combats acne
Dandelion can be used in acne treatments.. The diuretic, antioxidant, detoxifying and stimulating properties are used to combat hormonal imbalances that cause acne.
You can drink a dandelion extract juice and also put cloths on the affected area previously immersed in the infusion of this plant. This also promotes sweating, facilitating the release of toxins from the body.
6. Regulates the functioning of the digestive system
Consuming dandelion helps the digestive system to function properly.. Its compounds act as a digestive tonic, strengthening all the organs related to the digestive process. Not only on the stomach but also on the intestines.
For cases of gastritis, constipation, and excessive gas, dandelion can be consumed daily in infusion or extracts. Another of the properties and benefits of dandelion in cases of constipation is that it acts as a mild laxative.
7. Contributes to eye health
Dandelion helps to combat age-related eye problems.. The American Optometric Association recommends daily consumption of 12 milligrams of zeaxanthin and lutein every day. This helps reduce the risks of cataracts and macular degeneration.
These two problems are common in older people, and it has been shown that the risks of these problems are significantly reduced if lutein and zeaxanthin are consumed. These components are found in high concentration in a single cup of dandelion tea.
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8. Eliminates fluid retention
Another of the properties of dandelion is that it is an effective diuretic.. Due to different causes the body can accumulate fluid in the body and cause swelling and discomfort, as well as a significant increase in weight.
Consuming dandelion extract or infusion helps to eliminate water through urine. For this reason it is also recommended as an aid in weight loss treatments, since toxins and small amounts of fat are eliminated through urine.
9. Helps maintain a good mood
Dandelion is also an ally against depression.. This plant contains antioxidant compounds and B vitamins, which contribute to maintain a good mood.
Due to these properties and benefits, dandelion can be an excellent aid in treatments against depression. It is also recommended to use it frequently as a dietary supplement; this contributes to maintain energy and good mood.
10. Promotes bone health
One of the properties and benefits of dandelion is in the strengthening of bones.. As mentioned above, this plant has a high content of iron and calcium, as well as vitamin C and luteolin.
Thanks to these substances frequent consumption of dandelion helps strengthen bones. It has the ability to slow down the process of deterioration of the bone system associated with age thanks to its antioxidant properties.
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Referencias bibliográficas
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Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments. DK Pub.
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Tannenbaum, C., Farrell, B., Shaw, J., Morgan, S., Trimble, J., Currie, J., et al. (2017). An ecological approach to reducing potentially inappropriate medication use: Canadian Deprescribing Network. Can J Aging, 36(1), 97–107.
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Vorobyev, G., Alyabyev, A., Ogorodnikova, T., Khamidullin, A. yVorobyev, V. (2014). Adaptive properties of the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale Wigg. s.l.) under conditions of air pollution by motor vehicle exhausts”. Russian Journal of Ecology. 45 (2): 90–94.