Dandelion Root Cut - Roasted

From root to flower, dandelions are highly nutritious plants loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate, and small amounts of other B vitamins. Dandelion greens provide several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Dandelion root is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, a type of solouble fiber found in plants that supports the growth and maintenance of healthy gut bacteria in your digestive tract.

Dandelion root is often dried and made into tea, but you can also eat it whole like other root vegetables.

Dandelion contains potent antioxidants, which may explain many of its medicinal properties.

Antioxidants are compounds that help neutralize free radicals — molecules that are a product of normal metabolism but contribute to chronic disease risk if levels get too high in your body. Therefore, antioxidants are crucial for your overall health.

Dandelion may reduce inflammation thanks to compounds such as polyphenols.

Chicoric and chlorogenic acid are two bioactive compounds in dandelion that may help decrease insulin levels.

Some compounds in dandelion may decrease triglyceride and cholesterol levels, which are key risk factors for heart disease. Some of the polyphenols in dandelion, such as flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, may have cholesterol and triglyceride-lowering properties.

Although some claim that dandelion may reduce blood pressure, studies are limited.

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

Dandelion also contains potassium, a mineral associated with decreased blood pressure in those with previously elevated levels. Thus, this plant may indirectly affect blood pressure due to its potassium content.

Some research indicates that dandelions and their compounds may support weight control.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing health claims about dandelion extract is its potential to prevent the growth of cancerous cells in various organ systems. A 4-week study in rats showed that administering dandelion root extract modified specific pathways involved in suppressing the growth and spread of breast cancer cells. Other test-tube studies have found that dandelion root extract may slow the growth of cancer cells in the liver, colon, prostate, and stomach tissue.

Dandelion is often used in traditional medicine to treat constipation and improve digestive health. Dandelion root is also a rich source of the prebotic fiber inulin, which has been shown to reduce constipation and promote the movement of food through the digestive system. Furthermore, with more than 3 grams of fiber per cooked cup (105 grams), dandelion greens may bump up your fiber intake. Fiber supports bowel regularity and protects against various digestive conditions, including hemorrhoids and diverticulitis.

Some research indicates that dandelion may have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which may support your body’s ability to fight infection. Several test-tube studies have found that dandelion extract significantly reduces viruses’ ability to replicate. Research also indicates that some active compounds in dandelion protect against harmful bacteria and fungi.

Animal and test-tube research notes that dandelion extract may protect against skin damage caused by sunlight, aging, and acne. In one study, a fermented broth of dandelion extract prevented skin damage when applied just before or immediately after exposure to UVB radiation, which is the radiation you get from sunlight.An older test-tube study showed that dandelion root extract increased the generation of new skin cells, which may support your skin’s appearance as you age (Additionally, older research indicates that dandelion extract may reduce skin inflammation and irritation while increasing hydration and collagen production. This may be useful in preventing and treating certain types of acne.

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