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Dandelion Root Benefits Product InformationMost people look at dandelions as pesky weeds that try to take control of their lawns and gardens. However, the root of the common dandelion plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
Source of Vitamins
Dandelion root is a great source of vitamin A, B complex, C and D, as well as the minerals potassium, iron and zinc. Leaves can be used in sandwiches, salads and teas. The root of this easy to harvest plant is often used in coffee substitutes and can be purchased in capsule form at health food stores world wide.
Uses
Both dandelion leaves and roots have great medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine to treat problems of the liver. For centuries Native Americans have used the root of the dandelion plant to treat heartburn, ailments of the stomach, kidney disease, skin disorders and swelling.
Chinese herbalists have used dandelion root to treat disorders of the digestive system, breast inflammation, to increase the flow of milk in nursing mothers and appendicitis.
European herbalists have used the root of the dandelion in remedies for boils, diabetes, diarrhea, fever and problems of the eye.
Today, dandelion root is used as an appetite stimulant, a digestive aid, cleansing of the colon, as a laxative and as a diuretic. Other uses include the relief of flatulence, constipation, bloating and as a mild laxative.
Diuretic
Dandelion root works as a diuretic by promoting the excretion of salt and water from the kidneys. It can help a wide variety of ailments, including liver disorders, high blood pressure and poor digestion. Naturopaths prefer dandelion roots over other diuretics because it is high in potassium, which is a nutrient that is normally expelled through diuretic use.
Research
Animal research has concluded that dandelion root can help diabetics by reducing blood sugar levels. It also helps to reduce high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in those suffering from diabetes.
Use Caution
Though dandelion root can be very beneficial, caution should be used. Never take dandelion root for a prolonged period of time, nor take more than the directions suggest. As with all herbs, dandelion root contains active substances that can cause side effects and interact with certain medications. Dandelion root can cause allergic reactions or a sore mouth in some people. Never use dandelion root for gallstones or a gall bladder condition without consulting an herbalist, naturopath, or other health care professional who has knowledge of herbs.
Interactions
Dandelion root should never be taken in conjunction with lithium, which is a medication used to treat manic depression. Do not take it if you are currently taking ciprofloxacin, oxfloxacin or levofloxacin, as these medications and dandelion root are not compatible.
Tonic
Dandelion root cleanses the body and should be taken under the direction of an herbalist, naturopath or other health care professional in the spring and fall to promote optimum health. Our ancestors used dandelion root for just this purpose. Today, we have the benefit of having knowledgeable health care professionals to assure that dandelion root will not cause any adverse side effects.
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