Dandelion

Any of a genus (Taraxacum) of yellow-flowered composite herbs with milky sap

Specifically: one (T. officinale) sometimes grown as a potherb and almost cosmopolitan as a weed. [1]

Summary

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is an herb native to Europe. The leaf, flower, and root have actually been utilized for different infections, but with little proof.

Dandelion is discovered throughout mild climates of the northern hemisphere. It consists of chemicals that may reduce swelling, increase urine production, and avoid crystals from forming in the urine that might result in infections in the kidneys and urinary tract.

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

History of Dandelions

Plant historians understand that dandelions have been an important element of traditional Chinese medicine for a minimum of a thousand years. The plants, believed to be native to the Mediterranean, were well known by ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. Medicinally, dandelion roots and leaves were used as a tonic to eliminate toxic substances from the bloodstream, acting as a mild diuretic to improve the function of the digestion system. Ancient physicians didn’t know much about nutrition and vitamin shortages, but they realized that dandelions aided with a host of problems, including kidney, stomach and liver disorders, skin inflammations, heartburn, gall bladder problems, diabetes, arthritis, anemia, constipation, toothaches, fevers, survey, and even warts and dandruff. The benefits aren’t unexpected, and contemporary herbalists now understand that growing dandelions are rich in Vitamins C, E and A, in addition to calcium, potassium, zinc and iron. The plants were also appreciated for their charm. 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 healthy tea and delicious wine. Botanists state that some species of dandelion are belonging to North America. Nevertheless, historians believe that early European settlers introduced the two most familiar species: red-seeded dandelion (Taraxacum erythrospermum) and the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) to the New World for their nutritional and medical advantages. Both types have naturalized and growing dandelions are now discovered throughout the country, especially in disrupted soil such as croplands, construction sites, along roadsides and, of course– lawns. [3]

Description

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

Greece, naturalized in temperate areas throughout the world, and familiar to nearly everyone. The seasonal dandelion grows freely anywhere it can find a bit of earth and a place in the sun. Dandelion’s nutritious and medical qualities have actually been understood for centuries.

Dandelion’s common 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 stemmed from the Greek words taraxos, suggesting disorder, and akos, implying treatment. Another possible derivation is from the Persian tark hashgun, indicating wild endive, one of dandelion’s common names. The particular designation officinale suggests that this herb was formally noted as a medicinal. Dandelion held a location in the United States National Formulary from 1888 up until 1965, and the dried root of dandelion is noted in the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP).

Dandelion may be differentiated 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 a distinct hairless mid-rib. The leaves are organized 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 used as a color, it yields this purple color. Dandelion blooms are particular and round, with compact golden-yellow petals. They flower from early spring till well into fall atop hollow stalks that may reach from 4– 8 in (10.2 ndash; 20.3 cm) tall. The golden blooms yield a pale yellow dye for wool. After flowering, dandelion establishes a round cluster of achenes, or seed cases. As numerous as 200 of these narrow seed cases, each with a single seed, form the characteristic puffball. Each achene is topped with a white, feathery tuft to carry it on the breeze. Dandelion’s tap root might grow fat, and reach as deep as 1.5 ft (45.7 cm) in loose soil. The root has various hairy rootlets. Dandelion is a hardy herb and will regrow from root parts left in the ground throughout harvest. [4]

Ecology

Taraxacum officinale is native 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 occurs 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 nuisance in residential and leisure yards in The United States and Canada. It is also an essential weed in agriculture and triggers considerable financial damage because of its infestation in numerous crops worldwide.

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

The dandelion is a common colonizer of disturbed environments, both from wind blown seeds and seed germination from the seed bank. The seeds remain feasible in the seed bank for many years, with one research study showing germination after nine years. This species is a somewhat prolific seed manufacturer, with 54 to 172 seeds produced per head, and a single plant can produce more than 5,000 seeds a year. It is.

estimated that more than 97,000,000 seeds/hectare could be produced annual by a dense stand of dandelions. When launched, the seeds can be spread out by the end up to a number of hundred meters from their source. The seeds are likewise a common contaminant in crop and forage seeds. The plants are versatile to a lot of soils and the seeds are not dependent on cold temperature levels prior to they will sprout but they need to be within the top 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 upon dandelions.

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

While not in bloom, this types is sometimes confused with others, such as Chondrilla juncea, that have comparable basal rosettes of foliage. Another plant, sometimes described as fall dandelion, is very comparable to dandelion, however produces “yellow fields” later on. Its flowers resemble a few of the species of Sonchus, but are larger. [5]

Health benefits of dandelion

Although it’s typically dismissed as bit more than a persistent yard weed, dandelion has actually been used in lots of types of standard medicine for centuries.

While Taraxacum officinale is the most typical type, lots of other dandelion species exist.

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

Here are 13 potential health advantages of dandelion, together with some typical dangers and negative effects.

Highly healthy

From root to flower, dandelions are extremely nutritious plants packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

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

What’s more, dandelion greens offer a substantial amount of numerous minerals, consisting of iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

The root of the dandelion is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, a kind of soluble fiber discovered in plants that supports the growth and upkeep of healthy gut germs in your gastrointestinal tract.

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

Summary

The nutritional material of dandelion extends to all parts of the plant. Dandelion is an abundant source of fiber and numerous vitamins and minerals.

Contains potent antioxidants

Dandelion has plenty of powerful anti-oxidants, which might discuss a number of its medicinal residential or commercial properties.

Antioxidants are substances that help neutralize complimentary radicals– molecules that are an item of regular metabolism but add to chronic illness risk if levels get expensive in your body. Therefore, antioxidants are crucial for keeping your body healthy.

Dandelions include high levels of the anti-oxidant beta carotene, which may secure versus cell damage and oxidative stress.

They’re likewise abundant in another kind of anti-oxidants called polyphenols, which are discovered mainly in the flower however take place in the roots, leaves, and stems also.

Summary

Dandelions are a rich source of beta carotene and polyphenol substances, both of which might reduce the effects of damaging complimentary radicals and secure versus chronic disease.

Might help battle swelling

Dandelion might minimize inflammation, thanks to specific compounds such as polyphenols.

Swelling is a normal immune system reaction to injury or infection. Nevertheless, long-term swelling might lead to long-term damage to your body’s tissues and DNA.

Some test-tube studies keep in mind considerably lowered markers of swelling in cells treated with compounds extracted from dandelion.

One study in mice with inflammatory lung illness revealed a considerable decrease of lung inflammation in those that got dandelion.

Still, human research study is needed.

Summary

Minimal animal and test-tube research recommends that dandelion has anti-inflammatory properties, though human research studies are doing not have.

May help in blood glucose management

Chicoric and chlorogenic acid are two bioactive compounds in dandelion that may help reduce blood sugar levels.

Test-tube and animal research studies reveal that these compounds might improve the secretion of insulin– a hormonal agent that regulates blood sugar level levels– along with the absorption of glucose (sugar) in your muscles.

This process causes enhanced insulin level of sensitivity and lowered blood sugar levels.

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

Although these results are encouraging, more research study is required in humans.

Summary

Dandelion includes bioactive substances that have actually been revealed to lower blood sugar level in animal and test-tube research studies. However, human research study is still required.

May lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels

Some substances in dandelion might decrease triglyceride and cholesterol levels, both of which are key risk aspects for heart problem.

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

Similarly, a 4-week animal research study showed that administering dandelion leaf extract to rats substantially minimized levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides.

What’s more, an older bunny study revealed that including dandelion roots and delegates a high cholesterol diet plan lowered cholesterol levels.

Nevertheless, current research study is limited to test-tube and animal research studies.

Summary

Some animal studies indicate that dandelion reduces cholesterol and triglyceride levels, but research in humans is required.

May lower high blood pressure

Although some people declare that dandelion may decrease high blood pressure, studies are restricted.

Traditional herbal medication uses dandelion for its diuretic effect based upon the belief that it can detoxify specific organs.

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

One older human research study discovered dandelion to be an effective diuretic. However, this study was short and involved just 17 people.

Dandelion also consists of potassium, a mineral associated with reduced blood pressure in those with formerly elevated levels. Thus, this plant might have an indirect effect on high blood pressure due to its potassium content.

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

Summary

Dandelion might reduce high 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 may safeguard against liver damage and illness.

In fact, one animal study found that it helped prevent liver damage in mice exposed to salt dichromate, a compound used to induce liver injury.

Other animal research studies have actually shown that dandelion extract might lower levels of excess fat stored in the liver and safeguard versus oxidative stress.

Nevertheless, human research is required.

Summary

Animal research studies indicate that dandelion may safeguard versus liver damage, but more research study is required in human beings.

May aid weight-loss

Some research shows that dandelions and their compounds may support weight control, though the data isn’t definitive.

Some researchers recommend that dandelion’s ability to enhance carb metabolic process and reduce fat absorption may lead to weight loss. Nevertheless, this theory has yet to be scientifically proven.

One study in mice likewise suggests that dandelion extract might assist weight management by decreasing fat absorption.

Another study in mice discovered that chlorogenic acid, a compound discovered in dandelion, minimized body weight, reduced fat build-up, and transformed levels of certain proteins associated with weight control.

Still, more high quality research study in people is essential.

Summary

Some animal research studies note that dandelion substances may support weight control, but no human studies have actually evaluated this effect.

Might have anticancer impacts

Possibly among the most appealing health claims about dandelion extract is its possible to prevent the development of cancerous cells in various organ systems.

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

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

These findings are motivating, however human research study is lacking.

Summary

A number of test-tube studies have figured out that dandelion extract may slow the development of particular kinds of cancer. However, research is needed in human beings.

May assistance healthy food digestion and treat irregularity

Dandelion is typically utilized in conventional medicine to deal with constipation and improve gastrointestinal health.

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

Dandelion root is also a rich source of the prebiotic fiber inulin, which has been shown to lower constipation and promote the motion of food through the digestion system.

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

Summary

Dandelion is abundant in fiber and prebiotic compounds such as inulin– both of which might support bowel regularity, to name a few gastrointestinal advantages.

May increase immune health

Some research shows that dandelion may have antimicrobial and antiviral homes, which may support your body’s ability to fight infection.

Several test-tube research studies have actually discovered that dandelion extract significantly decreases infections’ capability to duplicate.

Research also suggests that some active compounds in dandelion safeguard versus numerous damaging bacteria.

Eventually, more research is required in human beings.

Summary

Although research in humans is doing not have, some test-tube studies suggest that dandelion has antiviral and anti-bacterial homes.

May be an useful skin care treatment

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

In one research study, dandelion leaf and flower extracts prevented skin damage when applied just before or right away after direct exposure to UVB radiation, which is the radiation you receive from sunlight. Surprisingly, dandelion root did not have the very same impact.

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

Additionally, older research study suggests that dandelion extract may minimize skin inflammation and irritation while increasing hydration and collagen production. This might be useful in preventing and treating certain kinds of acne.

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

Summary

Animal and test-tube studies recommend that dandelion may protect against skin damage brought on by sun damage, aging, and acne. Additional research in human beings is required.

Might assistance healthy bones

Extremely little research study has been performed on dandelion’s impact on bone health, though a few of its private nutrients contribute to the maintenance of strong, healthy bones.

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

One little research study linked an increased intake of vitamin K-rich leafy green veggies to lower blood levels of osteocalcin, a protein found in your bones. This suggests that consuming more leafy greens such as dandelion greens may assist prevent bone loss.

Inulin, a fiber found in dandelion root, may likewise support healthy bones by improving food digestion and gut health.

Furthermore, some research recommends that the antioxidants in dandelion and other greens play an essential role in bone health and protect against bone loss by decreasing oxidative stress.

Summary

Research study on dandelion’s effects on bone health is lacking, though some components of the plant are understood to support the upkeep 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 method. Herbal tea made with the flowers tends to be more delicate and sweet than those made with the roots or leaves. Dandelion leaves are usually harvested in the spring while the roots and flowers for tea are gotten rid of in the fall. Dandelion tea can likewise be found in tea bags at your regional tea shop.

The dandelion plant is understood by the botanical name Taraxacum officinale. This plant is often utilized to make dandelion tea and dandelion white wine along with dandelion jelly and jams. These plants obtain their name from the French expression “dent-de-lion,” which translates to lion’s tooth.

Taste

Dandelion tea is usually delicate and gently sweet in taste. Roasted dandelion teas like dandelion coffee tend to have a stronger, warm flavor and a much deeper fragrance. The dandelion plant is not overpowering so it can be integrated with bold flavors 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?

Dish for dandelion tea

Given that Dandelion is said to be utilized for fighting cancer cells, Dandelion Root Tea ought to be your choice for the cause and to support health. Here’s how you can make a scrumptious 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. Include 2 tablespoon of dried Dandelion Root.
4. Let it high for a minimum of 3 minutes
5. Switch off the burner and let the mix steep for thirty minutes.
6. Restrain the mix in a cup.
7. Add honey based on your taste. You can utilize 1 1/2 tablespoon.

Enjoy!!

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 component 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 steep for 20 minutes.
6. Limit the mix.
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. Simply let it cool in the fridge or include ice cubes. [8]

Dandelion adverse effects

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

Although not all side effects are known, dandelion is thought to be perhaps safe for most people.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others might take place. Call your physician for medical recommendations about negative effects. [9]

How should I take dandelion?

When thinking about using herbal supplements, look for the advice of your doctor. You might also think about seeking advice from a practitioner who is trained in using herbal/health supplements.

If you pick to utilize dandelion, utilize it as directed on the package or as directed by your physician, pharmacist, or other doctor. Do not use more of this item than is recommended on the label.

Call your medical professional if the condition you are treating with dandelion does not improve, or if it becomes worse while using this item.

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 also engages with a number of medications that are broken down by the liver. If you are taking prescription medications, ask your medical professional before taking dandelion leaf. Medications that might engage with dandelion include:.

• Antacids: Dandelion may increase the amount of stomach acid, so antacids may not work also.
• Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants and antiplatelets): It is possible that dandelion may increase the threat of bleeding, especially if you currently take blood thinners such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), or clopidogrel (Plavix).
• Diuretics (water pills): Dandelion may serve 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 serve as diuretics, you could be at risk of electrolyte imbalances.
• Lithium: Lithium is used to deal with bipolar disorder. Animal studies recommend that dandelion might aggravate the negative effects of lithium.
• Ciproflaxin (Cipro): One species of dandelion, Taraxacum mongolicum, also called Chinese dandelion, may reduce the amount of the antibiotic ciproflaxin that your body absorbs. Researchers do not know whether the common dandelion would do the very same thing.
• Medications for diabetes: Theoretically, dandelion may lower blood sugar levels. If you take medications for diabetes, taking dandelion might increase the threat of low blood sugar level.
• Medications broken down by the liver: Dandelion can connect with a number of medications. To be safe, ask your medical professional before taking dandelion if you take any medication. [11]

Precautions

Prevent taking dandelion if you dislike any of the following plants:.

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

Individuals who are allergic to dandelion may experience rash, watery eyes, and other allergic reaction symptoms. Dandelion also contains iodine and latex, so avoid it if you have allergies to either of these products.

People who are pregnant or lactating and kids need to not take dandelion treatments due to the absence of research study into their long-lasting safety. Dandelion is believed to be a galactagogue (a compound that might increase milk production); however, no significant research supports its use and needs to be talked about with your lactation consultant or healthcare service provider. [12]

Conclusion

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation causes damage in skin by creating excessive reactive oxygen types (ROS) and induction of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), leading to skin image ageing. Dandelion extracts have actually long been utilized for traditional Chinese medicine and native American medicine to deal with cancers, hepatitis, and digestion diseases; however, less is understood on the effects of dandelion extracts in skin image ageing. Here we discovered that dandelion leaf and flower extracts considerably safeguard UVB irradiation-inhibited cell viability when included before UVB irradiation or immediately after irradiation. Dandelion leaf and flower extracts prevented UVB irradiation-stimulated MMP activity and ROS generation. Dandelion root extracts revealed less action on protecting HDFs from UVB irradiation-induced MMP activity, ROS generation, and cell death. Moreover, dandelion leaf and flower but not root extracts promoted glutathione generation and glutathione reductase mRNA expression in the presence or absence of UVB irradiation. We also found that dandelion leaf and flower extracts help absorb UVB irradiation. In addition, dandelion extracts considerably secured HDFs from H2O2-induced cellular senescence. In conclusion, dandelion extracts especially leaf and flower extracts are powerful protective agents versus UVB damage and H2O2-induced cellular senescence in HDFs by suppressing ROS generation and MMP activities and helping UVB absorption. [13]

Referrals

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/