Dandelion Root Benefits | Nature’s Secret Remedy

It’s time to rethink our view of the humble dandelion. You’ll be amazed by the many incredible health benefits of dandelion root!

Dandelions are everywhere, and most of us spend a fair amount of time trying to eliminate those pesky weeds from our yards and gardens. I know I sure have! But did you know just how amazing those little dandelion plants can be? I’ve been thrilled to learn about the benefits of dandelion roots and how they can improve our health and wellness.

You may have heard me sing the praises of dandelions before. I talked about them when I made my Healing Dandelion Salve from dandelion flowers. Ever since then, I’ve loved learning about dandelions. My classes at the Herbal Academy helped open my eyes to how useful the dandelion root in particular could be. Today, I want to examine the many health benefits of dandelion root with you.

Please keep in mind that I am not a doctor or medical professional, and the information I share is not FDA approved. Consult with your healthcare provider about any medications, side effects or allergic reactions you may be concerned about.

Dandelion Uses

There are so many uses, both ancient and modern, for dandelions. Dandelions (also known by their scientific name, taraxacum officinale) grow all over the world from Europe and Asia to the Americas. If you’re interested in some of the history of dandelion use, I recommend this quick article from the National Library of Medicine. We won’t cover many specifics here, but dandelions and humans go way back.

Today, you’ll find many people still using dandelions for multiple purposes. You can find dandelion supplements, dandelion tinctures, dandelion extracts, dandelion tea….the list goes on and on. Dandelions seem to have a million uses. In fact, you can even roast dandelion roots in an oven and grind them to use as a coffee substitute. That’s one versatile plant!

Dandelion Root Benefits

Of course, the most exciting thing about dandelions has got to be the long list of health benefits they contain. It’s a pretty impressive list! So, in no particular order, here are some of the many benefits of dandelion root.

Digestive Aid

Dandelion root has long been used as medicine for digestive problems. Dandelion root helps increase the production of digestive enzymes, which can improve nutrient absorption and ease stomach discomfort. In addition to that, dandelion root also acts as a gentle laxative. It can help naturally regulate bowel movements, ease constipation and improve overall gut health.

Liver Support and Detoxification

Dandelion root can be used to support good liver health and function. This is because dandelion root helps stimulate the production of bile, which aids in the digestion and absorption of fats. By supporting healthy liver function, dandelion root also aids the body’s natural detoxification processes, helping to eliminate toxins and waste.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Anti-inflammatory properties are another reason to love dandelion root. Dandelion root extract contains bioactive compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols. These compounds produce anti-inflammatory effects. Dandelion root may benefit the body by reducing inflammation and helping to reduce the risk of conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Rich in Antioxidants

Dandelion root is absolutely packed with antioxidants! It also includes vitamins A, C, and E, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.

Antioxidants help protect our bodies’ cells from free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and cell damage. As a result, the antioxidants found in dandelion root support cellular health and may also reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Nutritional Profile

The flowers, leaves and roots of a dandelion are all edible. While you may have heard that you can add dandelion greens to your salad, did you know that dandelion leaf and roots are one of the healthiest vegetables around?

Dandelion roots contain many essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, calcium, and potassium. Checkout the Cleveland Health Clinic’s article about the health and nutritional benefits of dandelions.

Diuretic Effect

If you struggle with bloating and water retention, dandelion root may be able to help you. Dandelion root has diuretic properties, meaning it can increase urine production and help flush out excess fluid from the body. It can help relieve discomfort caused by water retention. Because the roots are so high in potassium, you won’t feel depleted after the roots work to flush your system. This diuretic effect is just another benefit that can be found in the amazing dandelion root.

Blood Sugar Regulation

You may want to consider using dandelion root for its blood sugar regulating benefits. Some early studies indicate that dandelion root may help reduce insulin sensitivity. This can be a welcome benefit for anyone struggling with diabetes, pre-diabetes or irregular blood sugar levels. While more research needs to be done in this area, it’s an exciting development!

Lower Blood Pressure

Dandelion roots are a great source of potassium! Harvard Health Publishing has a great article about how potassium can lower blood pressure, relax blood vessel walls, and prevent cramping. Increasing your potassium intake may help lower both your blood pressure and your risk of stroke.

Please note that if you have a kidney disorder, you should be careful of your potassium intake levels. Check with your doctor to see what a safe dosage of potassium is for you.

Potential Cancer Fighting Benefits

One hopeful prospect for future dandelion use is in cancer prevention and treatment. While a lot of research still needs to be done in this area, recent studies published by the National Library of Medicine indicate that dandelion may be beneficial in colon cancer treatment by fighting cancer cells. It’s exciting to think that there is potential for further advances in this important area.

Immune System Support

Dandelion root, with all of its nutritional benefits, is also thought to boost the immune system. Dandelion root is high in antioxidants and vitamin C. It’s used in many herbal medicinals to benefit the body as a whole and contribute to a strong immune system.

Where to Find Dandelion Products

It’s not hard to find dandelions. You’ve probably got some growing near you! You can harvest your own dandelions for use if you desire, but please be sure to not gather near roads or on fields that have been sprayed with toxic chemical. They do take a bit of effort to scrub clean, but the benefits are well worth it.

You can also purchase dandelion products and ingredients if you would like to skip the hassle of harvesting them yourself. Mountain Rose Herb is my favorite retailer for herbal products. They sell both Roasted Dandelion Root and Non-Roasted Dandelion Root.

I’ll be back to share some recipes about how I am working to consume dandelion root in my diet more regularly.

Learn More About Herbs and Natural Living

I think it’s safe to say that dandelions are not your average weed! They are packed full of natural goodness. I’ve been so excited to learn about the many benefits of dandelion root. Thank you for joining me today to look at some of these benefits.

If you’re interested in herbs or natural living, I would recommend you read:

• Natural Cold and Flu Remedies that You Can Make at Home with Herbs
• How to Make 100% Natural Laundry Soap with Soap Nuts
• DIY Linen Lavendar Eye Pillows
• The Study of Medicinal Herbs – Learn with Me
• DIY Dry Shampoo – With an Ingredient that Might Surprise You
• How to Harvest Dandelions
• How to Make a Nourishing Roasted Dandelion Root Tea

Talk to you soon!