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Dandelion – What are Dandelion Health Benefits? | Medicinal Values Of Dandelion | Health Benefits Of Dandelion

Dandelion leaves contain abundant amounts of vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamins A, C and K, and are good sources of calcium, potassium and fair amounts of iron and manganese, higher than similar leafy greens such as spinach. They contain 15% protein and 73% carbohydrates, 37% of which is fiber. The leaves also contain smaller amounts of over two dozen other nutrients, and are a significant source of beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. A cup of dandelion leaves contains 112% daily recommendation of vitamin A, 32% of vitamin C, and 535% of vitamin K and 218 mg potassium, 103 mg calcium, and 1.7 mg of iron. Dandelions are also an excellent source of vitamin H, which is proven to aid in weight loss when ingested.

The medicinal properties of dandelion root and leaf are well known and commonly accepted throughout Europe the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy recommends dandelion root for indigestion and loss of appetite, and in Germany the expert panel known as Commission E recommends products containing dandelion for treatment of liver disorders, appetite loss, indigestion, and fluid retention.

Women that suffer from premenstrual syndrome may find that the diuretic action of dandelion helps relieve symptoms of bloating and water weight gain.Dandelion flowers also have medicinal properties. They are an excellent source of lecithin, a nutrient that elevates the brain’s acetylcholine, a substance that helps maintain brain function and may play a role in slowing or even stopping the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Lecithin also helps the body maintain good liver function, so it is no surprise that dandelion is widely recommended by herbalists and naturopathic physicians for liver detoxification.Recent research supports the traditional use of dandelion for treatment of liver disorders; one Japanese study showed that taking jiedu yanggan gao, an herbal preparation containing dandelion root in combination with other herbs, improved liver function in people with hepatitis B.

Dandelions, flowers, roots and leaves, have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine & medicinal teas, most notably for liver detoxification, as a natural diuretic and for inflammation reduction. Unlike other diuretics, dandelion leaves contain good amounts of potassium, a mineral that is often lost during increased urination. There is also evidence that this property of dandelion leaves may normalize blood sugar.Dandelion is regarded as one of the finest liver remedies improving such conditions as liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis, gallstones, and jaundice, as well as clearing potentially toxic substances.

Health Benefits. Dandelion is a rich source of nutrients and other compounds that may improve liver function, promote weight loss, possess diuretic activity, and improve blood sugar control. In fact, the dandelion contains greater nutritional value than many other vegetables. It is particularly high in vitamins and minerals, protein, choline, inulin, and pectin. It has more vitamin A than carrots. In addition, dandelion is an excellent source of vitamin C, B1, B2 and B6, as well as calcium, copper, manganese and iron. It is also a rich source of medicinal compounds that have a “toning” effect on the body, and both the greens and the roots can be used for this purpose.

Vitamin A is important in fighting cancers of epithelial tissue, including mouth and lung.Potassium rich foods, in adequate quantities, and particularly in balance with magnesium, helps keep blood pressure down and reduces risks of strokes.Fiber fights diabetes, lowers cholesterol, reduces cancer and heart disease,risks, and assists in weight loss. High fiber vegetables take up lots of room, are low in calories, and slow down digestion so the food stays in the stomach longer and you feel full longer.Calcium in high concentrations can build strong bones and can lower blood pressure.B vitamins help reduce stress.