5. DANDELION

Dandelion is not just an ordinary ‘weed’, it is also excellent food and herbal medicine that anyone can find, grow, and put to use.

It has been used in traditional Chinese healing for breast concerns, appendicitis, and stomach problems. Native Americans boil and drink dandelion extract to help treat digestion problems, skin ailments, inflammation, liver injury, kidney disease, and heartburn.
Early Europeans used it to remedy diabetes, high fever, and diarrhea.

Dandelion is a very rich source of beta-carotene which we convert into vitamin A. This flowering plant is also rich in vitamin C, fibre, potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus. It’s a good place to get B complex vitamins, trace minerals, organic sodium, and even some vitamin D, too. Dandelion also contains protein, more than spinach.

The Dandelion Herb
1. Promotes and Stimulates Digestion
It acts as a mild laxative that promotes digestion, stimulates appetite, and balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines. It can increase the release of stomach acid and bile to aid digestion, especially of fats.

2. Prevents Water Retention in the Kidneys
This weed-like superfood is a natural diuretic, which helps the kidneys clear out waste, salt, and excess water by increasing urine production and frequency of urination. This inhibits microbial growth in the urinary system and prevents urinary tract infections.

3. Detoxifies the Liver
Dandelion has been shown to improve hepatic function by detoxifying the liver and re-establishing hydration and electrolyte balance. It also increases the production and release of bile.

4. Boosts Antioxidant Activity

5. Has Been Used In Cancer Research

6. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels
The leaves are especially rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients which combat cancer. Dandelion root extract, on the same note, has shown its ability to induce apoptosis or cell death in prostate and pancreatic cells.

7. Aids in the Management of High Blood Pressure
As a natural diuretic, dandelion increases urination which then lowers blood pressure. The fibre and potassium in dandelion also help regulate blood pressure.

8. Reduces Cholesterol Levels

9. Protects the Gallbladder

10. Fights Inflammation with Its Antioxidant Properties

11. Boosts the Immune System

12. Prevents UVB Damage on the Skin at the Cellular Level