7 Surprising Health Benefits of Dandelions

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Perhaps your childhood was spent blowing dandelion seeds into the wind, and nowadays you might be trying to rid your lawns from the flower. But there’s a case for foraging the flowers and working every part of them into your diet. Every part of the flower is medicinal, so whether you’re brewing a tea or making a salad, there’s an abundance of health benefits that flow from the plant.

In Episode 4 of Transcendence Season 2, we picked the minds of Daniel Vitalis, Dave Asprey, and Nick Polizzi - all experts in the field of using foods to heal - and this surprising flower cropped up in conversation. We knew it was worth diving deeper into...

1. Promotes Detoxification

If you’ve ever had dandelion in your diet before, chances are it was to support your body’s natural detoxification processes. The flowers house powerful antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and polyphenols, that have been known to prevent aging and certain diseases. Dandelion is also a rich source of the prebiotic fiber inulin, which research indicates reduces constipation and increases intestinal movement - supporting this vital elimination pathway to remove wastes from the digestive tract.

2. Stimulates Immune System

We’re all about supporting the immune system year-round, and if anything, the current state of our world has been a gentle reminder of just how important this is. Dandelion extract has been praised for antimicrobial and antiviral properties. In many research studies, compounds from the flower, root, stem, and leaves have reduced the virus’s ability to replicate, and formed a healthy barrier against harmful bacteria. Any opportunity to feed our immunity is a win by us.

3. Aids in Weight Loss

Dandelion, especially dandelion root tea, has been used in weight loss treatment programs for years. Partly because of its ability to promote detoxification and increase movement through the lower digestive tract, but also due to the potassium in the plant. This can act as a diuretic, increasing in your need for urination - another natural elimination pathway. For people struggling with water retention and bloating in their weight loss journey, this simple drink is a blessing in disguise.

4. Packed with Vital Micronutrients

These flowers, despite the misconception of being weeds, are a nutritional powerhouse. Different parts of the plant contain different compounds, especially vital micronutrients for day-to-day functioning. They are rich in fat-soluble Vitamins A, C, K, and also contain Vitamin E, folate, and small amounts of other B vitamins. As a plant, they further provide a substantial amount of minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These micronutrients serve a wide range of functions within the human body but are all required in some capacity to maintain our health.

5. Powerful Anti-Inflammatory

Dandelions have been praised for their anti-inflammatory properties, the compounds that tackle diseases before they begin to manifest in our bodies. The plant includes potential bioactive components such as sesquiterpene lactones, taraxasterol, taraxerol, chlorogenic acid, and CRA. These components are non-toxic and can be used for their potential anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-rheumatic, and choleretic properties. Dandelion leaves are the most powerful source of these health benefits.

6. Triggers Processes for Liver Function

In recent years we have been discovering just how vital our liver is for thriving health. With our diets and other lifestyle factors like excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, a strain is being placed on this detoxifying organ. Dandelion tea, in particular, helps to clear the liver and improve the flow of bile. In some animal studies, dandelion root has lessened the extent of permanent liver damage.

7. Contributes to Healthy, Glowing Skin

I’ve never met someone who doesn’t want radiant and vibrant skin. Recently we explored different foods that support your largest organ, and it turns out that dandelion is another powerful skin food. Research has shown that dandelion root extract can promote cell growth and generation, which is thought to slow the aging process. As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it has also been praised for fighting acne, eczema, and other skin conditions - all while increasing hydration and collagen production.

Alongside this fascinating flower, Episode 4 of Transcendence Season 2, Healing Herbs & Sacred Medicine, dives deeper into the re-emergence of this ancient science. In this episode you will also discover:

• The secrets to boosting your immunity by using herbs and medicinal plants to treat everything from the common cold to viral infections.
• Why medical herbs and plants are on the rise in the West and what the future of medicine could look like.
• Why mouldy-coffee could be the reason for your chronic headaches and fatigue.
• The miraculous healing powers of celery juice and how it works.
• The adaptogens you can start using today to increase your energy, mood, and mental clarity.

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