Dandelion is a flowering plant that has yellow flowers. They are known as taraxacum spp, however, taraxacum officinale is the common scientific name used. Medical experts use the root, stem, leaves, and flowers of the dandelion for medical reasons. This plant originated from Eurasia and currently, it has been introduced to many countries as such South America, North America, Australia, India, and New Zealand. It has so many health benefits some of them are as highlighted below.
Health benefits
1.Promotes digestion
A carbohydrate known as inulin is very useful in maintaining a healthy gut. Dandelion is one of the plants which has a high amount of inulin. Therefore, if you add it t your diet it will contribute to a high amount of bacterial flora at the intestinal tract. These supplements can also assist in stimulating the liver, maintaining the proper flow of bile and aiding digestion.
Since dandelion is also very rich in fiber it can aid in lowering irritable bowel syndrome, risk of diverticulosis and dyspepsia. Medical experts usually prescribe dandelions for children who have constipation issues.
2.Skincare
Dandelion milk/sap is usually used in treating skin diseases that are caused by fungal and microbial infections. The reason behind it is that the milk is highly alkaline and has fungicidal, insecticidal and germicidal features. You can also use this sap as a remedy for bruises, eczema, ringworm, itches and other skin conditions. One will not have a risk of getting hormonal disturbances or side effects that are usually caused by over the counter skin treatments.
3.Weight loss
Dandelions normally promote urination, thus release of waste of products without any side effects. This plant product is very low in calories and naturally sweet, a thing which makes it be used oftenly as a low sugar sweetener.
4.Boosts immune system
According to research dandelion can be used in relieving symptoms of hepatitis. Dandelion can also protect the immune system by developing therapies against certain diseases. It also has anti-microbial features that can aid in preventing bacterial infections.
5.Contains many antioxidants
The dandelion plant has numerous antioxidants that can help in curbing or neutralizing the negative side effects of free radicals in the body. Normally the body produces free radical during metabolism, however, they can cause be destructive if they are many in your body. For instance, they can accelerate aging and some diseases.
Dandelion also has chemicals known as beta-carotene which are known to offer strong protection against oxidative stress and cellular damage. There are also other antioxidants known as polyphenols which are very high in the flower although they are also present in the stems, leaves, and roots.
6.Can assist in controlling blood sugar
Dandelion contains tow bioactive compounds which are Chlorogenic and chicoric acid. These compounds are found in any part of this plant and can assist in reducing blood sugar. Some studies have shown that these compounds can increase the secretion of insulin from the pancreas and also improve the absorption of glucose in muscle tissue.
This leads to insulin sensitivity. These compounds can also limit the digestion of starchy carbohydrates foods.
