Today is

By: Ikedi Ani-okoye

Thoughts on the Dandelion

Many people think of Dandelions as a nuisance. This time of year, I always hear folks sharing ideas on how to get rid of those darn dandelions and which poisons work the best. On the other end of the spectrum, there are those throughout the world who welcome and embrace the dandelion as both food and medicine. The dandelion is a wild vegetable that is abundant, extremely nutritious and still free. The parts used are mostly the leaves and root. They are high in vitamin A, B, C, beta carotene, minerals and fiber. Dandelions act as a natural diuretic and are a popular blood and liver cleanser.

Dandelion Goodness

They are also considered a general tonic to help nourish and strengthen the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, stomach and intestines. Dandelions have been known to help with anemia, cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis, and jaundice, reducing serum cholesterol and uric acid levels. Dandelions have even relieved menopausal symptoms for some. Hot flashes have been linked to liver congestion in certain individuals. When there is liver congestion, previously used hormones that are ready for discard become trapped in the liver, recycled and used repeatedly, eventually causing toxicity.

Information about the Dandelion

Dandelion grows in most parts of the world, it is a well-known perennial weed which has traditionally been used for detoxify the body, especially the liver and kidneys.

Dandelion root has traditionally been used to help liver problems such as:

• Gallstones
• Hepatitis
• Jaundice

Dandelion root can also help with constipation, as it is a mild laxative. Dandelion leaf can be used as a diuretic, in fact dandelion is so well known for its diuretic action on the kidneys, that it has traditionally been referred to as ‘piss-a-bed’ in the past. Dandelion also has a high content of potassium, which helps to flush excess sodium from the body.

CONCLUSION

Dandelion leaves have a wonderful, slightly bitter flavor, and when mixed with more traditional greens such as romaine or iceberg lettuce, add a more robust flavor to the salad. The leaves should be picked before the plant flowers for the best flavor.

Dandelion leaves also make an excellent tea. It is especially useful for flushing excess fluids from the body, but unlike conventional diuretics, dandelion does not leach potassium from the body. Its rich potassium content replaces that which the body looses.