Dandelion Seeds

The dandelion has so many uses and benefits.  While others may view them as a nuisance, others admire this nature’s gift for their medicinal value. 

Dandelion seeds have several names, but its origins can be traced from the French word dent de lion meaning lion’s tooth which refers to the coarsely-toothed leaves.  Dandelions are either biennial or perennial herbaceous plants with a maximum of 250 species.

Dandelion as a whole (roots, leaves, stems, seeds, flowers) has plenty of culinary uses and medicinal value. It can be cooked or eaten raw either as a salad or soup perfect for any side dish.  Dandelion salads are nutritious and can be added with other proteins like hard boiled eggs and tuna.  Its leaves are very rich in calcium, iron, beta carotene, minerals, fiber, and vitamin A and C.  Its roots can be toasted to serve as an alternate for coffee.  It is believed that the dandelion root coffee stimulates the digestive functions and serves as a liver purifying agent.  Dandelion seeds also nourish and strengthen the intestines, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, gallbladder and the liver.  The flowers can also be used to make dandelion wine that is known to calm the nerves and reduce anxiety attacks.

Dandelions have diuretic properties that purify the blood. It treats the blood, circulatory problems, hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver and jaundice.  It also has coloring agents used in some processed foods that do not have any adverse effects.

The milky extracts from the dandelion roots are used as a mosquito repellant that does not irritate the skin and to get rid of the warts and at the same time moisturizes the skin.

But what is best about dandelion seeds is that they contain luteolin (an anti-oxidant) that aids in aging. Dandelion seed has also been known to treat dairy allergies, hemorrhoids, control high blood pressure, stomach aches and heart burn.  It is also known to be a cure for toe nail fungus by preventing its reproduction which might cause discomfort on your toe.  Pregnant women have also found a new ally with the dandelion seeds since these are good home remedies for the discomfort of pregnancy without having to worry about harmful side effects.  Menopausal women have been reported to use dandelion seeds to reduce the discomfort into a minimal level.

As most of us probably believe, going natural is the best way to promote good health and well-being. Next time you get an upset stomach, try dandelion seeds. It’s safe, available and free!