Dandelion

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is an herb belonging to Europe. The leaf, flower, and root have actually been used for various infections, but with little evidence.

Dandelion is found throughout mild climates of the northern hemisphere. It includes chemicals that may decrease swelling, increase urine production, and avoid crystals from forming in the urine that could result in infections in the kidneys and urinary system.

People use dandelion for conditions such as inflamed tonsils, kidney infections, UTIs, and numerous others, but there is no good clinical proof to support these usages. [2]

History of Dandelions

Plant historians understand that dandelions have been a crucial part of traditional Chinese medicine for a minimum of a thousand years. The plants, believed to be native to the Mediterranean, were popular by ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. Medicinally, dandelion roots and leaves were utilized as a tonic to get rid of contaminants from the blood stream, functioning as a gentle diuretic to improve the function of the digestion system. Ancient doctors didn’t know much about nutrition and vitamin deficiencies, however they realized that dandelions assisted with a host of problems, including kidney, stomach and liver conditions, skin irritations, heartburn, gall bladder issues, diabetes, arthritis, anemia, constipation, toothaches, fevers, study, and even warts and dandruff. The advantages aren’t unexpected, and modern herbalists now comprehend that growing dandelions are rich in Vitamins C, E and A, as well as calcium, potassium, zinc and iron. The plants were also valued for their appeal. Dandelions were used to make dye– pale yellow from the warm yellow blossoms and a purple tint from the inner ribs of the leaves. Even today, numerous gardeners utilize the plants to make nutritious tea and delicious white wine. Botanists say that some types of dandelion are belonging to The United States and Canada. Nevertheless, historians think that early European settlers introduced the two most familiar types: red-seeded dandelion (Taraxacum erythrospermum) and the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) to the New World for their dietary and medical benefits. Both types have naturalized and growing dandelions are now found across the nation, especially in disturbed soil such as croplands, construction websites, along roadsides and, naturally– lawns. [3]

Description

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a common meadow herb of the Asteraceae or sunflower family. There are about 100 species of dandelion, and all are useful. This sun-loving beauty hails.

Greece, naturalized in temperate regions throughout the world, and familiar to almost everyone. The perennial dandelion grows easily wherever it can find a little earth and a location in the sun. Dandelion’s nutritive and medical qualities have been known for centuries.

Dandelion’s typical name is stemmed from the French damage de lion, a recommendation to the irregular and jagged margins of the lance-shaped leaves. There are numerous folk names for this widely-used herb. They consist of pissabed, Irish daisy, blow ball, lion’s tooth, bitterwort, wild endive, priest’s crown, doonheadclock, yellow gowan, puffball, clock flower, swine snort, fortune-teller, and cankerwort. The generic name is believed to be derived from the Greek words taraxos, meaning disorder, and akos, suggesting remedy. Another possible derivation is from the Persian tark hashgun, indicating wild endive, one of dandelion’s common names. The particular designation officinale indicates that this herb was formally listed as a medicinal. Dandelion held a location in the United States National Formulary from 1888 till 1965, and the dried root of dandelion is noted in the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP).

Dandelion might be distinguished from other similar-looking herbs by the hollow, leafless flower stems which contain a bitter milky-white liquid likewise found in the root and leaves. The dark green dandelion leaves, with their irregular, deeply jagged margins, have an unique hairless mid-rib. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern, and might grow to 1.5 ft (45.7 cm) in length. They have a.

charming magenta tint that extends up along the inner rib of the stalk less leaf. When the plant is utilized as a color, it yields this purple shade. Dandelion blooms are particular and round, with compact golden-yellow petals. They flower from early spring up until well into autumn atop hollow stalks that may reach from 4– 8 in (10.2 ndash; 20.3 cm) high. The golden blossoms yield a pale yellow dye for wool. After flowering, dandelion develops a round cluster of achenes, or seed cases. As lots of as 200 of these narrow seed cases, each with a single seed, form the particular puffball. Each achene is topped with a white, feathery tuft to bring it on the breeze. Dandelion’s tap root may grow fat, and reach as deep as 1.5 ft (45.7 cm) in loose soil. The root has many hairy rootlets. Dandelion is a durable herb and will grow back from root parts left in the ground during harvest. [4]

Ecology

Taraxacum officinale is belonging to Europe and Asia, and was originally imported to America as a food crop. It is now naturalized throughout North America, southern Africa, South America, New Zealand, Australia, and India. It takes place in all 50 states of the US and most Canadian provinces. It is thought about a harmful weed in some jurisdictions, and is considered to be a problem in property and leisure yards in The United States and Canada. It is also an important weed in farming and triggers considerable economic damage because of its invasion in many crops worldwide.

officinale can act as a sign plant for soil potassium and calcium, as the plant favors soils with reasonably low concentrations of calcium, however favors soils with relatively high concentrations of potassium.

The dandelion is a typical colonizer of disrupted environments, both from wind blown seeds and seed germination from the seed bank. The seeds stay feasible in the seed bank for many years, with one study revealing germination after 9 years. This types is a somewhat prolific seed producer, with 54 to 172 seeds produced per head, and a single plant can produce more than 5,000 seeds a year. It is.

approximated that more than 97,000,000 seeds/hectare could be produced yearly by a thick stand of dandelions. When launched, the seeds can be spread by the wind up to several hundred meters from their source. The seeds are also a common pollutant in crop and forage seeds. The plants are adaptable to many soils and the seeds are not based on cold temperatures prior to they will sprout however they require to be within the leading 2.5 cm (1 in) of soil.

officinale is food for the caterpillars of numerous Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), such as the tortrix moth Celypha rufana. See likewise List of Lepidoptera that feed on dandelions.

Even though dandelion pollen is of bad dietary quality for honey bees, they readily consume it, and it can be an important source of dietary variety in greatly handled monocultures such as that of blueberries. Honey bees have not been revealed to decrease their pollination activity on nearby fruit crops when foraging on dandelions.

While not in bloom, this species is in some cases confused with others, such as Chondrilla juncea, that have similar basal rosettes of foliage. Another plant, often referred to as fall dandelion, is very similar to dandelion, however produces “yellow fields” later on. Its blooms resemble some of the species of Sonchus, but are bigger. [5]

Health benefits of dandelion

Although it’s often dismissed as little more than a persistent lawn weed, dandelion has been utilized in lots of forms of standard medication for centuries.

While Taraxacum officinale is the most common type, numerous other dandelion species exist.

Not only can the leaves, roots, and flower add a pop of color to your plate, however they’re also frequently discovered in natural teas and supplements, where they’re used as a natural solution to support blood glucose management and boost skin, liver, and heart health.

Here are 13 possible health benefits of dandelion, in addition to some typical risks and side effects.

Extremely nutritious

From root to flower, dandelions are highly healthy plants loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Dandelion greens can be consumed cooked or raw and are an outstanding source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate, and small amounts of other B vitamins.

What’s more, dandelion greens offer a considerable quantity of several minerals, consisting of iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

The root of the dandelion is abundant in the carbohydrate inulin, a type of soluble fiber found in plants that supports the development and maintenance of healthy gut bacteria in your gastrointestinal system.

Dandelion root is typically dried and made into tea, however you can likewise consume it entire as you do other root veggies.

Summary

The dietary material of dandelion reaches all parts of the plant. Dandelion is an abundant source of fiber and lots of vitamins and minerals.

Consists of potent anti-oxidants

Dandelion is full of powerful anti-oxidants, which might describe much of its medical residential or commercial properties.

Anti-oxidants are compounds that assist neutralize complimentary radicals– particles that are an item of typical metabolic process however contribute to chronic illness risk if levels get too expensive in your body. For that reason, anti-oxidants are crucial for keeping your body healthy.

Dandelions contain high levels of the anti-oxidant beta carotene, which might protect versus cell damage and oxidative stress.

They’re also abundant in another kind of antioxidants called polyphenols, which are discovered mainly in the flower however happen in the roots, leaves, and stems too.

Summary

Dandelions are a rich source of beta carotene and polyphenol compounds, both of which might reduce the effects of hazardous totally free radicals and safeguard versus persistent disease.

May help combat inflammation

Dandelion might minimize swelling, thanks to certain substances such as polyphenols.

Swelling is a normal body immune system reaction to injury or infection. However, long-lasting inflammation may result in permanent damage to your body’s tissues and DNA.

Some test-tube research studies note significantly lowered markers of inflammation in cells treated with substances drawn out from dandelion.

One research study in mice with inflammatory lung disease showed a considerable decrease of lung inflammation in those that got dandelion.

Still, human research study is required.

Summary

Minimal animal and test-tube research study recommends that dandelion has anti-inflammatory properties, though human studies are lacking.

May help in blood sugar management

Chicoric and chlorogenic acid are two bioactive compounds in dandelion that might assist reduce blood glucose levels.

Test-tube and animal research studies show that these substances might enhance the secretion of insulin– a hormone that controls blood sugar level levels– in addition to the absorption of glucose (sugar) in your muscles.

This process results in improved insulin sensitivity and minimized blood sugar levels.

In some animal research studies, chicoric and chlorogenic acid also limited the digestion of starchy, high carb foods, which might even more contribute to dandelion’s ability to lower blood sugar level levels.

Although these results are motivating, more research study is needed in people.

Summary

Dandelion contains bioactive compounds that have actually been revealed to minimize blood sugar level in animal and test-tube studies. However, human research study is still needed.

May reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels

Some compounds in dandelion might reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels, both of which are key danger factors for heart disease.

In one test-tube research study, dandelion leaf and root extract decreased triglyceride build-up in fat cells.

Similarly, a 4-week animal study showed that administering dandelion leaf extract to rats considerably lowered levels of overall cholesterol and triglycerides.

What’s more, an older bunny research study showed that including dandelion roots and delegates a high cholesterol diet reduced cholesterol levels.

However, existing research study is restricted to test-tube and animal studies.

Summary

Some animal studies show that dandelion reduces cholesterol and triglyceride levels, however research in humans is needed.

May lower blood pressure

Although some individuals claim that dandelion may reduce high blood pressure, research studies are restricted.

Traditional natural medicine uses dandelion for its diuretic effect based upon the belief that it can cleanse certain organs.

In Western medicine, diuretic medications are used to rid the body of excess fluid, which might help reduce high blood pressure levels.

One older human study found dandelion to be an efficient diuretic. However, this research study was quick and included just 17 individuals.

Dandelion also consists of potassium, a mineral related to reduced blood pressure in those with previously raised levels. Thus, this plant may have an indirect impact on blood pressure due to its potassium content.

Significantly, this effect isn’t special to dandelion– it applies to any potassium-rich food consumed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Dandelion might lower blood pressure as a result of its diuretic impact and potassium content. Nevertheless, really little research is offered.

May promote liver health

Some animal studies recommend that dandelion extract might protect against liver damage and illness.

In fact, one animal study found that it assisted avoid liver damage in mice exposed to salt dichromate, a substance utilized to cause liver injury.

Other animal research studies have shown that dandelion extract might reduce levels of excess fat kept in the liver and protect against oxidative tension.

However, human research is needed.

Summary

Animal studies suggest that dandelion might safeguard against liver damage, but more research is required in humans.

May aid weight-loss

Some research indicates that dandelions and their substances might support weight control, though the information isn’t conclusive.

Some scientists recommend that dandelion’s ability to improve carbohydrate metabolic process and lower fat absorption might lead to weight loss. However, this theory has yet to be clinically proven.

One study in mice also suggests that dandelion extract might aid weight management by minimizing fat absorption.

Another research study in mice found that chlorogenic acid, a compound discovered in dandelion, reduced body weight, decreased fat accumulation, and modified levels of particular proteins involved in weight control.

Still, more high quality research in people is required.

Summary

Some animal studies keep in mind that dandelion substances may support weight control, but no human studies have evaluated this effect.

May have anticancer results

Possibly one of the most intriguing health claims about dandelion extract is its potential to prevent the development of malignant cells in different organ systems.

A 4-week research study in rats revealed that administering dandelion root extract modified specific pathways associated with reducing the growth and spread of breast cancer cells.

Other test-tube studies have discovered that dandelion root extract may slow the growth of cancer cells in liver, colon, and stomach tissue.

These findings are encouraging, however human research is doing not have.

Summary

A number of test-tube studies have identified that dandelion extract might slow the development of certain types of cancer. Nevertheless, research is needed in people.

Might assistance healthy food digestion and treat irregularity

Dandelion is frequently used in traditional medicine to treat constipation and improve gastrointestinal health.

One older animal study discovered a significant increase in the rates of stomach contractions and stomach emptying in rats treated with dandelion extract.

Dandelion root is likewise an abundant source of the prebiotic fiber inulin, which has been shown to reduce constipation and promote the motion of food through the gastrointestinal system.

What’s more, with more than 3 grams of fiber per cooked cup (105 grams), dandelion greens might bump up your fiber intake. Fiber supports bowel regularity and safeguards versus a variety of digestion conditions, including hemorrhoids and diverticulitis.

Summary

Dandelion is abundant in fiber and prebiotic substances such as inulin– both of which may support bowel consistency, to name a few digestion benefits.

May boost immune health

Some research suggests that dandelion may have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which might support your body’s ability to eliminate infection.

Numerous test-tube studies have discovered that dandelion extract considerably lowers infections’ ability to replicate.

Research also indicates that some active substances in dandelion safeguard against numerous damaging germs.

Ultimately, more research is needed in humans.

Summary

Although research study in human beings is lacking, some test-tube research studies suggest that dandelion has antiviral and antibacterial residential or commercial properties.

Might be an useful skin care treatment

Animal and test-tube research keeps in mind that dandelion extract might secure versus skin damage brought on by sunshine, aging, and acne.

In one research study, dandelion leaf and flower extracts avoided skin damage when used right before or right away after exposure to UVB radiation, which is the radiation you obtain from sunlight. Surprisingly, dandelion root did not have the exact same effect.

An older test-tube research study showed that dandelion root extract increased the generation of new skin cells, which might support your skin’s appearance as you age.

Furthermore, older research suggests that dandelion extract may reduce skin inflammation and inflammation while increasing hydration and collagen production. This might be useful in preventing and dealing with specific kinds of acne.

However, current research on the impacts of dandelion on skin health is lacking, and research studies are limited to check tubes and animals.

Summary

Animal and test-tube research studies suggest that dandelion may secure versus skin damage triggered by sun damage, aging, and acne. More research study in human beings is required.

Might support healthy bones

Really little research has been performed on dandelion’s effect on bone health, though a few of its specific nutrients add to the maintenance of strong, healthy bones.

Dandelion greens are an excellent source of calcium and vitamin K, both of which play a key function in bone health.

One small research study linked an increased consumption of vitamin K-rich leafy green vegetables to lower blood levels of osteocalcin, a protein discovered in your bones. This suggests that eating more leafy greens such as dandelion greens may assist prevent bone loss.

Inulin, a fiber discovered in dandelion root, might also support healthy bones by enhancing food digestion and gut health.

In addition, some research study suggests that the anti-oxidants in dandelion and other greens play a key role in bone health and secure versus bone loss by reducing oxidative tension.

Summary

Research study on dandelion’s impacts on bone health is lacking, though some components of the plant are understood to support the maintenance of strong bones. [6]

What is dandelion tea?

You can make dandelion tea from the leaves, flowers, or roots of the plants, with the latter being the most common technique. Natural tea made with the flowers tends to be more delicate and sweet than those made with the roots or leaves. Dandelion leaves are normally gathered in the spring while the roots and flowers for tea are removed in the fall. Dandelion tea can also be discovered in tea bags at your local tea shop.

The dandelion plant is understood by the botanical name Taraxacum officinale. This plant is frequently used to make dandelion tea and dandelion wine in addition to dandelion jelly and jams. These plants derive their name from the French expression “dent-de-lion,” which equates to lion’s tooth.

Taste

Dandelion tea is generally delicate and lightly sweet in taste. Roasted dandelion teas like dandelion coffee tend to have a more powerful, warm flavor and a deeper fragrance. The dandelion plant is not overpowering so it can be combined with strong tastes such as masala chai and black tea leaves. It is typically sweeten or seasoned using citrus fruits and other garden greens. [7]

How to make dandelion tea?

Recipe for dandelion tea

Considering that Dandelion is said to be utilized for fighting cancer cells, Dandelion Root Tea need to be your choice for the cause and to support health. Here’s how you can make a tasty cup of this goodness.

1. Put 8 oz of water into the saucepan. That would be 1 cup.
2. Boil it at 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Add 2 tablespoon of dried Dandelion Root.
4. Let it high for at least 3 minutes
5. Switch off the burner and let the mixture steep for thirty minutes.
6. Limit the mix in a cup.
7. Add honey based on your taste. You can use 1 1/2 tablespoon.

Delight in!!

How to make dandelion flower tea?

1. Select 10 Dandelion heads (flower) and discard the leaves connected to it. If you are using jam-packed Dandelion flower, add 2 tablespoons.
2. Keep this active ingredient in a pitcher.
3. Let boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan.
4. When the water is hot enough, put it in the pitcher.
5. Let it high for 20 minutes.
6. Restrain the mixture.
7. Add 2 tablespoon of honey and stir well.

Voila! Here is your Dandelion Flower tea. You can consume it as an iced tea too. Just let it cool in the fridge or add ice cubes. [8]

Dandelion negative effects

Get emergency medical aid if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; problem breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all negative effects are known, dandelion is thought to be potentially safe for many people.

This is not a total list of adverse effects and others might take place. Call your physician for medical guidance about negative effects. [9]

How should I take dandelion?

When considering making use of natural supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You might likewise think about consulting a practitioner who is trained in making use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to utilize dandelion, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your medical professional, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not utilize more of this product than is advised on the label.

Call your physician if the condition you are treating with dandelion does not enhance, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store at room temperature far from wetness and heat. [10]

Possible interactions

Dandelion leaf may serve as a diuretic, which can make drugs leave your body much faster. It likewise connects with a variety of medications that are broken down by the liver. If you are taking prescription medications, ask your physician before taking dandelion leaf. Medications that may connect with dandelion include:.

• Antacids: Dandelion might increase the amount of stomach acid, so antacids may not work also.
• Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants and antiplatelets): It is possible that dandelion might increase the danger of bleeding, specifically if you currently take blood slimmers such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), or clopidogrel (Plavix).
• Diuretics (water tablets): Dandelion might function as a diuretic, triggering your body to produce more urine to get rid of excess fluid. If you likewise take prescription diuretics, or other herbs that act as diuretics, you could be at risk of electrolyte imbalances.
• Lithium: Lithium is used to treat bipolar disorder. Animal studies recommend that dandelion may get worse the side effects of lithium.
• Ciproflaxin (Cipro): One species of dandelion, Taraxacum mongolicum, likewise called Chinese dandelion, might reduce the amount of the antibiotic ciproflaxin that your body absorbs. Scientists do not know whether the common dandelion would do the very same thing.
• Medications for diabetes: Theoretically, dandelion might reduce blood glucose levels. If you take medications for diabetes, taking dandelion might increase the threat of low blood glucose.
• Medications broken down by the liver: Dandelion can engage with a number of medications. To be safe, ask your doctor before taking dandelion if you take any medication. [11]

Safety measures

Prevent taking dandelion if you are allergic to any of the following plants:.

• Ragweed
• Chrysanthemums
• Marigold
• Chamomile
• Feverfew
• Yarrow
• Plants in the Asteraceae household (such as sunflowers and daisies)

People who are allergic to dandelion might experience rash, watery eyes, and other allergy symptoms. Dandelion likewise contains iodine and latex, so avoid it if you have allergies to either of these products.

Individuals who are pregnant or breast feeding and kids should not take dandelion remedies due to the absence of research into their long-term security. Dandelion is thought to be a galactagogue (a substance that might increase milk production); nevertheless, no significant research supports its use and needs to be talked about with your lactation consultant or health care provider. [12]

Conclusion

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation triggers damage in skin by producing excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induction of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), leading to skin photo aging. Dandelion extracts have long been utilized for traditional Chinese medicine and native American medication to treat cancers, liver disease, and digestion illness; nevertheless, less is known on the impacts of dandelion extracts in skin picture aging. Here we found that dandelion leaf and flower extracts substantially secure UVB irradiation-inhibited cell viability when included prior to UVB irradiation or promptly after irradiation. Dandelion leaf and flower extracts inhibited UVB irradiation-stimulated MMP activity and ROS generation. Dandelion root extracts showed less action on securing HDFs from UVB irradiation-induced MMP activity, ROS generation, and cell death. Furthermore, dandelion leaf and flower however not root extracts stimulated glutathione generation and glutathione reductase mRNA expression in the existence or lack of UVB irradiation. We also found that dandelion leaf and flower extracts assist absorb UVB irradiation. In addition, dandelion extracts substantially secured HDFs from H2O2-induced cellular senescence. In conclusion, dandelion extracts specifically leaf and flower extracts are powerful protective representatives versus UVB damage and H2O2-induced cellular senescence in HDFs by reducing ROS generation and MMP activities and assisting UVB absorption. [13]

Recommendations

1. Https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dandelion
2. Https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-706/dandelion
3. Https://blog.gardeningknowhow.com/tbt/dandelion-plant-history-facts/
4. Https://www.encyclopedia.com/plants-and-animals/plants/plants/dandelion
5. Https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/taraxacum_officinale#ecology
6. Https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dandelion-benefits#toc_title_hdr_14
7. Https://senchateabar.com/blogs/blog/how-to-make-dandelion-tea
8. Https://teaswan.com/blogs/news/how-to-make-dandelion-tea
9. Https://www.drugs.com/mtm/dandelion.html#side-effects
10. Https://www.emedicinehealth.com/drug-dandelion/article_em.htm#howtake
11. Https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/dandelion
12. Https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-dandelion-root-89103#toc-precautions
13. Https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26576225/