Dandelion: what is the plant for and side effects

Dandelion is a plant with the scientific name Taraxacum officinale , also known as monk's crown, pint and taráxaco. This medicinal plant has a hollow and erect stem, with leaves divided into deep segments and golden yellow flowers, reaching a height of about 30 centimeters.

Due to its properties, Dandelion can be used to assist in the treatment of digestive disorders, liver and pancreas problems and skin conditions, for example.

What is it for

The parts used in the plant are the root and the aerial parts, which are indicated to assist in the treatment of digestive problems, lack of appetite, biliary disorders, liver disease, hemorrhoids, gout, rheumatism, eczema, kidney and bladder disorders and diabetes.

In addition, dandelion also promotes the excretion of urine and, therefore, can be used as a complement to the treatment of cystitis, fluid retention and high blood pressure. The root of the plant also has a mild laxative effect.

What are the main components

The main components present in the dandelion plant are sesquiterpene lactones, vitamins A, B, C and D, choline and minerals, including potassium.

How to use

The dandelion plant can be used to prepare teas, tinctures and juices. In addition, it can also be present in ready-made formulations, available in pharmacies and health food stores.

1. Dandelion tea

Ingredients

1 tablespoon of crushed dandelion root; 150 mL of water.

Method of preparation

To prepare the tea, simply pour 150 mL of boiling water over a tablespoon of crushed root and let it stand for 10 minutes. You can drink a cup of this tea, 3 times a day, before meals.

2. Dandelion juice

Ingredients

New dandelion leaves; Coconut water.

Method of preparation

Beat the leaves in a processor, together with the coconut water and drink three times a day. Generally, dandelion leaves have a bitter taste and, therefore, the newer ones, whose flavor is less intense, should be used. In addition, you can mix other ingredients, such as apple juice, mint and ginger, for example, to improve the taste and give more properties to this juice. Know the properties of ginger.

Who should not use

Dandelion should not be used in people who are hypersensitive to this plant, who suffer from obstruction of the bile ducts or intestinal occlusion. Furthermore, it should also not be used in pregnancy.