A plant related to the daisy family, taraxacum officinale, commonly known as dandelion, is a medicinal plant whose roots, leaves, and flowers are non-toxic and edible. Dandelion can be consumed as food, in beverages like herbal infusions and coffee alternatives, as well as taken in supplement form as capsules and tinctures.
Vanessa Nemec a New Mexico-based Herbalist, Reiki Master and creative with a passion for health and wellness at her core exudes: “Dandelion is a TREASURE. So misunderstood to be a weed, but the earth provides the most healing medicine in abundance and there’s no shortage of this baby all over the place. It’s amazing for the liver, kidneys, digestion, gut healing, and so much more. Pure magic.”
In fact, much more than a weed, dandelion - from the French “dent de lion,” which means “lion’s tooth” in reference to its sharp leaves - is an herb native to Europe, Asia and North America that flourishes throughout temperate climates in the northern hemisphere. Dandelion is high in vitamins A, C, and K, with moderate amounts of calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, and manganese. The roots and stems also contain potassium and inulin, a soluble fiber with probiotic qualities. Due to this potent profile, it’s often labeled as a natural antibiotic in Western herbology.
Similarly, in Traditional Chinese Medicine, dandelion - called Pu Gong Ying (from pinyin) - is used frequently to clear heat from the liver, reduce swelling and stave off colds. It is also used to treat “stomach fire” such as gastrointestinal troubles, appendicitis, and even lack of milk flow for lactating women.
Furthermore, for centuries Native Americans have used dandelion to treat kidney disease, swelling, skin problems, heartburn, and upset stomach. In Europe, dandelion has been historically used as a remedy for a variety of ailments, including fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea.
In addition to being nutritious and versatile, a short list of this beauty’s bevy of benefits include:
Heart Health
Dandelions contain bioactive compounds that have been shown to be supportive of a healthy heart by reducing blood lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides.
Antioxidant + Antinflammatory
The presence of carotenoids (such as beta carotene) and polyphenol compounds in dandelions may help neutralize harmful free radicals, prevent premature aging, protect against chronic disease, and help reduce inflammation.
Weight Management + Healthy Gut
Bioactive compounds found in the dandelion plant may improve blood sugar management, carbohydrate metabolism and reduced fat absorption. Additionally, the root of both dandelion and chicory (a closely related plant from the endive family), contain the carbohydrate inulin, a prebiotic fiber proven to improve digestive health by nourishing gut microbes, easing constipation, and helping the body absorb nutrients like magnesium and calcium. Both are also high in antioxidants and minerals. There are even studies suggesting dandelion as a safe treatment for type 2 diabetes.
Detoxifying
Dandelion has a diuretic effect, resulting in the belief that it can stimulate and detoxify certain organs like the liver and kidneys. Dandelion is also believed to prevent crystals from forming in the urine that could lead to infections in the kidneys and urinary tract. Furthermore, diuretic medicines are often used in Western medicine to rid the body of excess fluid, therefore decreasing blood pressure levels.
Lower Blood Pressure
Though there is not yet any evidence directly linking dandelion to low blood pressure, dandelions are high in potassium and clinical studies do show that potassium can significantly reduce high blood pressure.
Immune Support
Dandelion is believed to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which help support the body’s ability to fight infection.
Now that we know the why, what about the how?
Back to Vanessa Nemec: “Each part of the dandelion (leaf, flower, and root) all carry beneficial healing properties. Tdhere are tons of ways to enjoy this plant, but two of my favorite super simple ways to introduce this plant into your diet include:
- Toss dandelion greens into any salad to immediately pump up the nutritional value
- Steep a small handful of dried dandelion root in hot water for 5 minutes or more to create a dandelion root infusion. You can add milk or a little maple syrup if the flavor doesn't suit your palate, or instead, you could throw a teaspoon of dandelion root into your teapot with your favorite tea. It tastes great alongside a chai blend, and can also make for a great coffee substitute.
You can get dandelion root at any specialty herb store. Some of my favorites include Mountain Rose Herbs and Starwest Botanicals.”
Please note that while dandelion is non-toxic and considered to be generally safe, it may trigger side effects or interact with other herbs, supplements or medications. To be safe, consult with a doctor before beginning any herbal protocol.
Health