Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a very common weed which grows in valleys and lawns throughout Europe and North America. It received its name after a Latin expression “a tooth of lion” as a reference to jagged edges of the leaves of this plant. Despite being considered weed, dandelion root and leaves have been used for centuries for their nutritional and medicinal properties.

Dandelion root is a rich natural source of many minerals and nutrients, including iron, zinc, potassium, folic acid, carotene, vitamins A, C, D, B12, antioxidants and others. Benefits of dandelion root and dandelion root tea can help us to get rid of such problems as anemia, indigestion, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome, bladder infections, hepatitis and other liver problems, and many more. Dandelion can stimulate bale production in our body which can improve liver function and lower the risks of having gallstones.

German specialists found out that dandelion can improve gastric juice secretion as well as help combat constipation. Benefits of dandelion root tea and tinctures include positive effects on our mood, that is why they can be recommended for treating depressions, anxiety, mood swings and other related disorders. In addition, dandelion root tea can be used externally to treat arthritis pains and various skin inflammations, inducing such serious ones like eczema, acne and so on.

Studies showed that dandelion can help strengthen bones and lower the risks of osteoporosis. These effects are achieved due to a high content of such elements as calcium and boron. Besides, dandelion root tea is a know herbal remedy for weight loss, due to excellent powers of this natural product to regulate blood sugar and improve fat metabolism. For the same reason, dandelion root tea is recommended to those people who suffer from type 2 diabetes.

If you want to enjoy the above listed benefits of dandelion root tea, do not forget to talk to your doctor or a herbal specialist before starting any type of therapy. Though dandelion is considered to be among the safest herbal remedies, some people can experience allergic reactions, sensitivity and unwanted side effects after using dandelion extracts, capsules, tinctures and other products. The best way to use fresh dandelion leaves is to add them to your vegetable salads.

Author Info: Hi! My name is Carla and I am a 5th year medical student at HYMS. I am interested in alternative medicine and I have done months researching the topic of herbal medicine. Besides, I like interviewing people and learning more about their experiences with one or another type of herbal treatments. I am willing to contribute to this site with my knowledge, and I would be happy to help you out to the best of my ability with any specific questions or problems related to alternative medicine.

2 Responses to “Benefits Of Dandelion Root”

1. Brynn Says:
   July 5th, 2011 at 1:55 pm

   The name actually comes from the French, “dent de lion,” not Latin.

2. maxy Says:
   September 17th, 2011 at 2:10 pm

   is there anyway to dissolve gallstones herbarly