What Is A Dandelion?

A common name ‘dandelion’ is normally applied for species of the Taraxacum, a large group of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. The basic characteristics of these plants is that they have long tap roots and deeply notched leaves and bright yellow flowers accompanied by fluffy seed balls. Though the dandelion is local to regions like Europe and Asia, the plant is now has also been introduced to many other parts of the world.

 

Even though the dandelion is regarded as a weed, the plant does have many culinary uses apart from also nurturing vital herbal medicinal properties. Infact, the entire plant can be used as a medicinal herb internally as well as externally. Read about the internal and external herbal uses of the dandelion.

 

Fresh dandelion juice can be used externally to fight off bacteria and assist in the curing of wounds. The plant embodies vital anti-bacterial properties restricting the growth of staphococcus aureus, pneumococci, meningococci, Bacillus dysenteriae, B. typhi, C. diphtheriae and proteus. The latex in this plant sap can be employed to do away with corns and warts.

 

It is a known fact that dandelion is used for treating gall bladder, kidney and urinary disorders. It is also effective for gallstones, jaundice, dyspepsia with constipation, edema linked with high blood pressure and heart weakness, acute joint and skin problems, gout, eczema and acne. In the form of tonic, Dandelion strengthens kidneys. Dandelion is a strong diuretic, but doesn’t cause depletion of potassium in body.

 

Studies show that various ingredients forming Dandelion like Taraxacin, Taraxacoside, Inulin, Phenolic acids, minerals like potassium and calcium, etc. are quite effective at treating varied disorders and ailments. Dandelion is generally made use of as a tonic and blood purifier for skin problems, constipation, joint pain, eczema and liver dysfunction.

 

• The Dandelion leaves that are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and iron can be eaten cooked or raw in different ways like in soup or salad.
• Dandelion flowers are employed to making dandelion wine.
• The dandelion flower can also be used to make jam.
• Ground roasted dandelion root can be used as a coffee substitute.