The Darling Dandelion
The Dandelion is more than just a pesky weed growing in your garden. This golden, orange-yellow flower can help you manage symptoms of conditions such as acne, eczema, high cholesterol, and even Diabetes! Skinny Maverick offers our clients the highest quality Dandelion capsules that could help to alleviate symptoms of Kidney and Liver Disease. This champion herb can bring sunshine to your health and quality of life.
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What exactly is the Dandelion?
The Dandelion plant is considered a common weed that is found just about anywhere. Its official name is Taraxacum Officinale and is known for its fluffy white seeds that we love to blow and admire as they float in the air. These seeds can travel quite a long distance and can be rather difficult to get rid of. However, this plant is more than just a weed. It is a very useful herb that is completely edible from root to flower and foliage. It has been used throughout the ages to treat everything from digestive issues to skin problems. It has also proven to be an amazing source of important vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Potassium, Iron, and Calcium. You can add the leaves to salads and prepare them with spinach for extra health benefits.
Did you know these interesting facts about Dandelions?
Did you know that you can use the roots of the Dandelion herb as a coffee substitute? All you need to do is to roast the roots in the oven for a little while and then turn it into a powder. Boom, you have something that tastes like coffee, but has no caffeine and does wonders for your overall health. The Dandelion is part of the daisy family, which is considered one of the biggest families in the botany world. It is also well known that the Dandelion is a great friend to pollinators such as bees. They also offer a tasty meal to other insects such as butterflies, even birds enjoy eating this sunny flower. Dandelion has a few other very interesting names such as Blowball, Lion’s tooth, Priest’ts crown, and Wild Endive.
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Nutritional info of Dandelion
According to Webmd.com, one cup of raw Dandelion contains roughly:
- Calories: 25
- Protein: 1.5 grams
- Fat: 0.4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5.1 grams
- Fiber: 1.9 grams
- Sugar: 0.4 grams
- This beautiful herb contains plenty of Beta- Carotene, Magnesium, Calcium, Iron, and Zinc.
- Verywellfit.com claims that one cup of Dandelion greens contains 428.1mcg of Vitamin K, 1.7mg of Iron, and 279.4mcg of Vitamin A.
Dandelion has quite a few amazing benefits
It can aid in keeping your digestive system healthy.
The root of the Dandelion can be used as a mild laxative that can help to alleviate constipation and IBS, while its anti-inflammatory capabilities can help to reduce the inflammation caused by conditions such as Acid reflux and gastritis (a general name for conditions that causes inflammation in the lining of your stomach).
Another way that this herb can help is its diuretic properties, which help to reduce the amount of fluid in your digestive system by encouraging your bladder to release more urine more frequently. Removing the excess fluid can help to reduce bloating and water retention, which can have some very uncomfortable symptoms such as swollen ankles and feet, stiff joints, and fluctuations in your weight.
Taking Dandelion could lower your cholesterol and triglycerides.
Triglyceride is a type of fad that your body produces by breaking down calories that your body doesn’t use right away. High triglyceride levels have been linked to an increased risk of developing heart conditions. While cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your arteries. Cholesterol isn’t necessarily bad, but too much of it can be detrimental to your heart health.
According to some research, the leaves from Dandelions have a compound that has been proven to help lower the total amount of cholesterol in your body. The powerful antioxidant properties of this herb can help to reduce the chances of further damaging your arteries because of an excess of cholesterol. The Antioxidants in Dandelion are also believed to aid in the increase of HDL cholesterol (believed to be the better type of cholesterol) and lower the type of cholesterol that can cause heart issues.
Reducing muscle pain caused by inflammation may be possible by adding Dandelion supplements to your diet.
Did you know that Dandelions have some amazing anti-inflammatory capabilities? This herb contains compounds known as phytochemicals and polyphenols, that help to discourage your body from producing cytokines (one of the compounds that cause inflammation in your muscles).
The roots of this incredible herb are also said to help reduce swelling caused when you have an injury or strain your muscles a bit too much. Dandelion doesn’t just reduce inflammation in your muscles, however, it can also help to reduce inflammation in your joints caused by Arthritis.
Dandelion may be able to keep your immune system in good fighting condition.
In these chaotic times, it is more important than ever to maintain a good immune system. Cue Dandelion! It is said that this little herb has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which help your body fight off any infection that tries to ruin your day. A few lab studies show that the extracts from Dandelion can reduce a virus’ ability to replicate in your body, which gives your immune system time to ensure that the virus never gets the chance to become a problem. The Vitamin A and Vitamin C found in Dandelion help to improve the efficiency of your immune system.
A few studies have shown that Dandelion is particularly effective against the flu, which is good news for us this upcoming winter. Like Echinacea (read more about this herb in this blog-insert link) Dandelion contains Polysaccharides, which are a group of compounds that have been proven to maintain the balance of the immune system. There are a few other compounds that make this herb a true immune-boosting superhero, such as Sesquiterpene Lactones (a compound naturally found in Dandelion) and Phenylpropanoids (also a compound found in Dandelion).
Your bones may benefit from Dandelion supplements.
Dandelion has gained some attention for its potential bone health benefits. This is thanks to Dandelion’s relatively high concentration of vitamin A, Vitamin K, Calcium, and magnesium, all of which play a big role in the health of your bones. They also help your bones by helping your body to absorb minerals that aid in the formation of bones such as Phosphorus and Zinc.
Dandelion has an Alkalinizing effect, which is important not only for healthy bones but for your overall health as well. Thanks to these benefits, Dandelion may help to reduce the risk of developing bone-related conditions such as osteoporosis and Arthritis. It may also help to alleviate the symptoms that go along with these conditions, thanks to Dandelion's anti-inflammatory capabilities.
Dandelion has the potential to lower blood pressure.
It is well known that Dandelion has been used for ages as a diuretic. This means that it has the ability to reduce the amount of fluid in your body by making you go to the bathroom more often. This helps to lower your blood pressure since it lowers the amount of fluid in your blood vessels.
This helps to reduce the amount of work your heart has to do to pump blood throughout your body. Dandelion also contains compounds such as Polyphenols that help to lower your blood pressure further. Another way that Dandelion helps to keep your blood pressure under control is its higher concentration of Potassium, according to several studies.
You may be able to improve your blood sugar levels by taking Dandelion supplements.
Many individuals around the world are concerned about their blood sugar levels, especially those individuals with diabetes. Good news! Dandelion may be able to help you manage your blood sugar levels. Dandelion contains a compound that is called inulin, It acts as a prebiotic, which helps beneficial bacteria in your digestive system to grow.
Thanks to the healthier microbiome, you could have a better glucose tolerance and be more sensitive to insulin. The anti-inflammatory capabilities of Dandelion may also contribute to lower blood sugar levels as inflammation has been proven to greatly affect your insulin sensitivity. Dandelion also contains Chicoric and Chlorogenic acids which could help to further decrease your blood sugar levels. Some studies have shown that these two acid compounds also help to lower the amount of starch-related carbs your body absorbs.
It is important to know that starches are turned into glucose (a type of sugar) in your body during digestion. Since Dandelion limits the amount of starch your body digests, the amount of glucose that these starches create is also lowered. Studies have shown that Dandelion has the potential to reduce fasting glucose levels in individuals with type 2 Diabetes.
There are some risks and side effects associated with Dandelion
If you are allergic to plants from the Asteraceae family, such as ragweed and daisies it is important to avoid Dandelion supplements, as they may cause allergic reactions. Speak to a health care professional or avoid use if you suffer from conditions such as kidney diseases, gallbladder conditions, or gallstones. Also, avoid using this supplement, or speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding as there is not enough evidence to suggest its safety.
Although this supplement is considered safe for most people, there may be a few side effects such as heartburn and an increased amount of stomach acid. It may also cause sores in or around your mouth.
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Interactions between Dandelion and other medications
According to MountSinai.org, Wellness Warrior, and drugs.com, possible interaction with Dandelion includes:
- Antacids: Dandelion may decrease the efficiency of this product as it could increase the amount of acid in your stomach.
- Blood thinners, either anticoagulants or antiplatelets such as Aspirin, Warfarin, and Clopidogrel: it is best to avoid using these medications along with Dandelion as the two together may cause excess bleeding.
- Other herbal supplements that may influence your body’s blood clotting abilities such as Angelica, Capsicum, Clove, Danshen, Garlic, Ginger, Ginkgo, Horse Chestnut, Panax Ginseng, Poplar, Red clover Saw Palmetto, Turmeric, and Willow.
- Water pills: Dandelion is a diuretic. You may increase the risk of developing an electrolyte imbalance if used alongside water pills.
- Lithium: Some studies show that Dandelion may exasperate the side effects caused by this medication.
- Ciproflaxin: studies show that the Chinese dandelion can lower the amount of medication that your body absorbs, it is not clear if the common Dandelion has the same effect.
- Diabetes medications: Dandelion may help to lower your blood sugar levels. Taking blood sugar medications and Dandelion at the same time may increase the risk of lowering your blood sugar levels too much.
- Any medications that are broken down by your liver, such as Cytochrome P450 1A2 substrates and Glucuronidated drugs: Dandelion may change the rate at which these medications are broken down, lowering their effectiveness.
Final thoughts on this amazing herb
The Dandelion doesn’t just remind us that growth is possible no matter where you find yourself, it also offers a natural and safe way to improve your health. This versatile herb can help to improve your digestion, keep your immune system healthy, and can even help to manage your blood sugar levels. It can even be used as a healthier substitute for coffee if you want to avoid the caffeine buzz and its inevitable crash. It can also be found just about anywhere. If you don’t feel like foraging around your yard or neighborhood (or if it’s not Dandelion season), Dandelion is a great supplement that you can have on hand no matter the season.
References:
- All American Turf Beauty. (2023, March 20). Dandelion Facts: 11 Interesting Things About Dandelions. All American Turf Beauty, Inc. https://www.allamericanturf.com/blog/interesting-f...
- Birds & Blooms Editors. (2022, March 3). 7 Surprising Facts About Dandelions. Family Handyman. https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/surprising-...
- Can Dandelion boost the immune system? (n.d.). https://www.avogel.co.uk/health/herbs/can-dandelio...
- Clark, A., PhD. (2023, January 28). Health Benefits of Dandelion. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-dan...
- Cpt, M. F. M. A. (2021, August 18). Dandelion Greens Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits. Verywell Fit. https://www.verywellfit.com/dandelion-greens-nutri...
- Dandelion. (n.d.). Mount Sinai Health System. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/dandelion#:~:text=In%20some%20people%2C%20dandelion%20can,their%20doctors%20before%20eating%20dandelion.
- Dandelion & Arnica Sore Muscle Rub — Sunrise Hives. (n.d.). Sunrise Hives. https://www.sunrisehives.com/products/dandelion-amp-arnica-sore-muscle-rub#:~:text=The%20anti%2Dinflammatory%20properties%20of,muscles%20and%20decrease%20joint%20pain.
- Dandelion Uses, Side Effects & Warnings. (n.d.). Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/dandelion.html
- Fletcher, J. (2023, January 10). 11 health benefits of dandelion. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324083#t...
- Gastritis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. (2022, March 15). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gas...
- Heger, E., Cassetty, S., Heger, E., & Cassetty, S. (2022, May 26). How dandelion tea may help relieve bloating, support bone health, and more, according to experts. Insider. https://www.insider.com/guides/health/diet-nutriti...
- Iddrisu, I., Oduro, I., & Tandoh, M. (2016). The Effect of Dandelion Leaves and Roots on Blood Glucose in Type 2 Diabetic Patients. Journal of Nutritional Ecology and Food Research, 3(2), 125–132. https://doi.org/10.1166/jnef.2016.1128
- Olas, B. (2022). New Perspectives on the Effect of Dandelion, Its Food Products and Other Preparations on the Cardiovascular System and Its Diseases. Nutrients, 14(7), 1350. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14071350
- Purdie, J. (2022, June 9). Everything You Need to Know About Water Retention. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/water-retention#...
- Rd, R. a. M. (2023a, February 1). 13 Emerging Health Benefits of Dandelion. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dandelion-ben...
- Rd, R. a. M. (2023b, February 1). 13 Emerging Health Benefits of Dandelion. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dandelion-ben...
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (2023, February 22). Dandelion | Definition, Uses, & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/plant/dandelion
- Triglycerides: Why do they matter? (2022, September 3). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hig...
- WebMD Editorial Contributors. (2020, September 24). Dandelion Tea: Is It Good for You? WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/diet/dandelion-tea-is-it-good-for-you#091e9c5e81feed18-1- 2
- Wellness Warrior. (n.d.). Pharmaceutical Drugs that Interact with DANDELION. https://firstaidherbalmedicine.com/pages/pharmaceu...
- What is Cholesterol? (2023, March 7). www.heart.org. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol...
- Sagud, H. (2023, February 4). Is Dandelion Alkaline | EatingCheating.com. https://eatingcheating.com/is-dandelion-alkaline/
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