HEALTH BENEFITS

OF DANDELION

By
George F. Felfoldi
© 2023, George F. Felfoldi
HEALTH BENEFITS
OF DANDELION
 © 2023, George Felfoldi

Please feel free to distribute this e-Book,

As long as all the information is intact,
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BELONG TO THEIR RESPECTABLE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page
Copyright Information
Table Of Content
Dedication
Special Thanks
About The Author
Other Books By The Author
The Common Dandelion
Taraxacum
- Descriotion
- Similar Plants
- Classification
- Different Kinds And Species

– Different Cultivars
 Plant's History
Etymology
- Common Names
Nutrition
Properties
- Edibility
Other Uses For Dandelions
- Dye
- Allergies

– Herbalism

– Benefits To Gardeners

– Cultural Importance

– Inspiration For Engineering

– As A Source Of Natural Rubber

Food For Wildlife

– Seeds
- Nectar
 - Leaves
Invasive Species
Health Benefits Of Dandelions
Drinking Dandelion Tea
- Drinking Dandelion Tea
- An Alternative Hot Beverage
- Cholesterol Lowering Effects
- Reducing Liver Damage
- Fights The Flu
Health Risks

– Some Health Risks

- Caution
- Supplement And Dosage Forms
Extras
- Dandelions In Your Garden
- Dandelion Symbolism

– How Do You Eat Dandelions

Dandelion Recipes
Picture Gallery
I would like to dedicate this e-Book
To my late mom and dad and
And also to all my readers
And friends.

THIS BOOK IS TO YOU ALL.

I would like to thank all the people,
Companies, Organizations,
Family and friends that made
This e-Book possible.

The Toronto Public Library

Health Canada
Metro News Media
Toronto Star Newspaper
Dr. P.K. Fung, M.D.
InterNet Pictures
 PrintArtist (Front Cover)
Toronto Western Hospital
Dr. Imashi Fernando, MS, RDN, CDCES
Dr. Hubert Kline, MD
Wikipedia Org.
Dr. Katherine Marengo, LDN, RD
Ecosh Life & Health
Getty Images
Dr. Bettyann M. Felfoldi, DBS
 ABOUT THE AUTHOR

George F. Felfoldi

Dr. George Felfoldi is an Independent

Baptist Minister, An Author, Song writer
And Musician who is a native to
Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
George holds several doctors degrees in
Various fields and has written several books,
On different subjects such as:
Occult, Health, Religion, Herbals,
Ships, and also Poetry and Lyrics.
George is also married and
Has four grown children.
 OTHER BOOKS BY
THE AUTHOR
2006

Katoomba-Columbia
The Powers of Garlic
Speaking to God Through Prayers
Ginger the Herb and Root Guide
The Complete Book On Angels
Chamomile The Healing Herb
The Healing Powers of Aloe Vera
The Healing Powers of Cranberry
The Healing Powers Of Seaweed And Algae
The Spiritual Key To Healing
The Healing Powers of Pomegranate

2007

The Healing Powers Of Blueberries

AMD – Age-Related Macular Degeneration
A Modern Look At Solar Power
The Healing Powers of Oregano
The Healing Powers of Coconuts
The Book of Spells :White Magic Vs. Black Magic
The Healing Powers of Cherries
Experimenting With the G-Spot
Sex Magic
The Images of God
The Healing Powers of Thistles
The Felfoldi’s :Medical Herbal Encyclopedia
The Complete Book on Herbal Magick
The Herbs And the Animals of the Bible
The Road To Better Health

The Gnomes In Mythology

The Magic of Having Great Sex
The Healing Powers of Strawberries
The Backyard Terror :Squirrels
Changing The Way We Look At Wolves
Cooking With Eggs Cookbook
The Healing Powers Of Watermelons

2008

The Healing Powers of Mangos

The Complete Book On Angels (Second Edition)
The State of Man (In Relationship To The Bible)
The Healing Powers of Tomatoes
The Schooner, Bluenose II
The Healing Powers of Mushrooms
A Modern Look At Parapsychology

Angel Light Bible Studies (A complete 22 lesson course)

Peach Popourri (A book on Peaches)
Hypnosis For Self Betterment And Healing
The Down To Earth Cookbook
The Science of Faith and Other God’s Sciences
World Wide Ghosts & Hauntings
The Modern Look At Poetry

2009

The Science of Mind Transformation

A New Look at Scheurmann’s Disease
Loch Ness Mystery
In Search of Mysterious Primates
The Healing Powers of Pineapples
The Healing Powers of Limes
The Scottish-Hungarian Cookbook

Cooking With Friends Cookbook

Spirit Orbs Photography
The Secret of Healthy Living
The Healing Powers of Mr. Garlic
The Complete Book On Herbal Magick (2 nd. Edition)
Spellcasting :White & Black Magic
The Healing Powers of Kiwi Fruit
A World Of Food Cookbook
A Psychic Connection To 2012
Paranormal Phenomenon :Levitation
Aliens Are Among Us
2010

The Devil And His Demons :Activities, Facts & Evidence

2012

Bed Bugs In The Woodwork

The Cockroach Invasion
The Basics of the Chinese Zodiac
Focusing the Mind, The Inner Universe
The Healing Properties of Honey

2014

The Toe Nail Fungus Book

The Healing Powers of Peppermint
The Healing Powers of Dandelion
The Healing Powers of Cloves
2015

The New Age Cookbook

From My Table Cookbook
Tranquility Of Mind :Modern Lyrics And Poetry

2017

Kimberley's Famous Recipes

2018

Don't Stop Cooking

Hamsters Simplifies
My Scottish Fold Long Haired Cat
Good Foods Made Easy
The Healing Powers Of Black Peppermint
The Healing Powers Of Coffee
The Healing Powers Of Turmeric
The Healing Powers Of Water
Bedbugs Simplifies

2019

Farmer's Wife Olde And New Tyme Recipes

2021

Everyday Cooking
Cherries, A Superfood
Healing Properties Of Bananas
Healing Properties Of Corn
Healing Properties Of Garlic
Healing Properties Of Paprika
Pears, A Superfood
Plums, A Superfood
Healing Properties Of Cranberries, 53p
Healing Properties Of Ginger
Cooking Through A Pandemic

2022

Cleaning And Kitchen Tips

From Hungarian And Scottish Kitchens
Blue Mountain Cookbook
Yes You Can Cook
Health Benefits Of Ginger

2023

Creative Home Cooking Vol. 1

Nessie Of Loch Ness
The Powers Of Lemons
The Powers Of Apples
Healing Properties Of Thistles
Health Benefits Of Dandelion
THE COMMON DANDELION

This is the “Common Dandelion” that

we all know, love and hate.
Dandelions are the flowers that everyone, from children to
adults, can identify with. Their little yellow buds have been
around for centuries, sometimes they are annoying,
sometimes they are fun, and sometimes they are eaten for
dinner.

The most common variety of dandelion is known as the

“Taraxacum officinale”, while the word dandelion id derived
from the French “dent-de-lion” which means the “Lion's
Tooth”. There is another variety of taraxacum
erythospermum that is distinquishable only by the red color.
They can grow anywhere under any conditions. Dandelions
have been loved by many people world wide for ages, and the
plant is being used for everything from cooking to medicine
and even in magic.

Though the yellow heads are flowers to us, they are actually a
member of the daisy family, botomists consider the dandelion
to be a herb, the entire body of the plant from bloom to stem
is edible. They actually have more nutrients and they are
better for you than any other for of vegetable that is found
in your garden.

The dandelions have been cherished for its tremendous

healing properties since ancient times. It is a symbol of the
true perseverance of nature. Although this plant has a high
value, it can also be quite troublesome for some farmers and
home gardeners.

Dandelions.
 TARAXACUM

The “Taraxacum” is a large genus of flowering plants that are

in the family Asteraceae, that consists of species that are
commonly known world wide as “Dandelion”. The scientific
and hobby study of the genus is known as “Taraxacology”. The
genus is a native to Euraisa and North America, but the two
most commonplace species that are worldwide are the, T.
Officinal which is the common dandelion and the T.
Erythrospermum, which is the red seeded dandelion, these
plants were introduced from Europe into North America,
where they now propagate as wildflowers. Both of these
plants are edible entirely. The common name dandelion (DAN-
de-ly-en; from the French dent-de-lion “lion's tooth”) is also
given to specific members of the genus.

Like other members of the family Asteraceae, these plants

have very small flowers collected tofether into a composite
flower head. Each single flower in a head is called a, “Floret”.
In part due to their abundance, along with being a generalist
species, dandelions are one of the most vital early spring
nectar sources for a wide range of pollinators.

Many Taraxacum species produce seeds asexually by

apomixis, that is were seeds are produced without pollination,
resulting in offsprings that are genetically identical to the
parent plant.
Seed head (Blowballs).
The dandelion has gone to seed, all it needs as a hugh gust of
wind for it to self pollinate.

In general, the leaves are 50 to 250 mm or 2 to 10 inches or

longer, simple, lobed-to-pinnatisect, and form a basal rosette
above the central taproot. The flower heads are yellow or
orange coloured, and are open in the daytime but are closed
at night. The heads are borne singly on a hollow stem (scape)
that is usually leafless and rises 10 to 100 mm or 3/8 to 3 7/8
inches, or even more above the leaves. Stems and leaves
exude a white, milky latex when it is broken. A rosette may
produce several flowering stems at the same time. The flower
head are 20 to 50 mm or 3/4 to 2 inch in diameter and consist
entirely of ray florets. The flower heads mature into spherical
seed heads cometimes they are called blowballs or clocks, in
both British and American english, containing many single
seeded fruits that are called achenes. Each achene is attached
to a pappus of fine hair like material which enables wind
aided disperal over long distances.

The flower head is surrounded by bracts, sometimes they are

called sepals, in two series. The inner bracts are erect until the
seeds mature, then flex downward to allow the seeds to
disperse. The outer bracts are often reflexed downward, but
they remain appressed in plants of the sections Palustria and
Spectabilia. Between the pappus and the achene is a stalk
called a beak, which elongates as the fruit matures. The beak
breaks off from the achene quite easily, separating the seed
from the parachute.

DESCRIPTION

The species of Taraxacum are tap rooted, perennial,

herbaceous plants, which are native to temperate areas of the
Northern Hemisphere. The genus contains many different
species, that are usually or in the case of tripoids, obligately
reproduce by apomixis, resulting in many local populations
and endemism.

In the British Isles alone, 234 microspecies (example,

morphologically distinct clonal populations), are recognized in
nine loosely defined sections, which 40 are, “probably
endemic”. A number of species of Taraxacum are seed
dispered ruderals that rapidly colonize disturbed soil,
especially the common dandelion, (T. Officinale), that has
been introduced over much of the temperate world. After the
flowering has finished, the dandelion flower head dries out for
a day or two. The dried petals and stamens drop off, the
bracts reflex or curve backwards, and the parachute balls
open into a full sphere. When the development is complete,
the mature seeds are attached to a white, fluffy “parachutes”
that easily detach from the seadhead and glide by wind,
dispersing into the air.

The Seed Head (parachutes).

The seeds are able to cover a large distance when they are
dispered through the air due to the unique morphology of the
pappus that works to create a unique kind of vortex ring that
stays attached to the seed rather than being sent
downstream. In addition to the creation of this vortex ring,
the pappus can adjust its morphology depending on the
moisture that is in the air. This allows the plume of seeds to
close up and reduce the chance to separate from the stem,
waiting for optimal conditions that will maximize dispersal
and germination.

SIMILAR PLANTS

There are many similar plants in the family Asteraceae that

has yellow flowers that are sometimes known as false
dandelion. Dandelion flowers are very similar to those of cat's
ears (Hypochaeris). Both of these plants carry similar flowers,
which form into windborne seeds.

However, dandelion flowers are borne singly on unbranched,

hairless and leafless, hollow stems, while the cat's ear
flowering stems are branched, solid, and carry bracts. Both of
these plants have a basal rosette of leaves and a central
taproot. However, the leaves of dandelions are smooth or
glabrous, whereas those of the cat's ears are coarsely hairy.

Early flowering dandelions may be distinguished from

coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) by their basal rosette of leaves,
their lack of disc florets, and the absence of scales on the
flowering stems.

OTHER PLANTS with superficially similar flowers including the

hawkweed (Hieracium) and also the hawksbeards (Crepis).
These two plants are readily distinguished by branched
flowering stems, that are usually hairy and bear leaves.

CLASSIFICATION

The genus is taxonomically complex due to the presence of

apomixis: ant morphologically distinct clonal population
would deserve its own microspecies. Phylogenic approaches
are also complicated by the accelerated mutation in apomixis
lines and repeated ancient hybridization events in the genus.

As of 1970, the group is divided into about 34 macrospecies or

sections, and about 2,000 microspecies. However, some
botanists take a much narrower view and only accept a total
of about 60 macrospecies.

But by 2015, the number has been revised to include 60

sections and about 2,800 microspecies. 30 of these sections
are known to reproduce sexually.

About 235 apomictic and polyploids microspecies have been

recorded in Great Britain and also in Ireland alone.

TARAXACUM

Temporal range: Miocene - recent

A dandelion flower hear composed of
numerous small florets (top). The
seedhead is shown below.
 Scientific classification

Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterales
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Subfamily: Cichorioideae
Tribe: Cichorieae
Subtribe: Crepidinae
Genus: Taraxacum
F.H. Wigg.

Type species
Taraxacum officinale
 These are individual pollen grains
of the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

This is a segment of pappus

fiber showing barbs
The pappus of a dandelion seed,
that aids in wind driven dispersal.

A field with flowering dandelions.

DIFFERENT KINDS AND SPECIES

. Taraxacum albidum – the white flowered Japenese

dandelion, a hybrid between T. Coreanum and T. Japonicum

. Taraxacum aphrogenes – the Paphos dandelions

. Taraxacum arcticum

. Taraxacum balticum

. Taraxacum brachyceras

. Taraxacum brevicorniculatum – frequently misidentified as T.

Kok-saghyz and a poor rubber producer

. Taraxacum californicum – the Californis dandelion, an

endangered species
. Taraxacum centrasiaticum – the Xinjiang dandelion

. Taraxacum ceratophorum – the horned dandelion, which is

considered by some sources to be a North American
subspecies of T. Officinale (T. Officinale subsp. Ceratophorum)

. Taraxacum coreanum

. Taraxacum desertorum

. Taraxacum erythrospermum – the red seeded dandelion,

often considered a variety of T. Laevigatum (i.e., T.
Laevigatum var. Erythrospermum)

. Taraxacum farinosum – The Turkish dandelion

. Taraxacum holmboei – the Troodos dandelion

. Taraxacum hybernum

. Taraxacum japonicum – the Japanese dandelion, no ring of

smallish, downward turned leaves that is under the flower
head

. Taraxacum kok-saghyz – Kazakh dandelion, that produces

rubber

.Taraxacum laevigatum – the rock dandelion, achenes reddish

brown and leaves deeply cut throughout the length, inner
bracts' tips are hooded

. Taraxacum lissocarpum

. Taraxacum minimum

. Taraxacum mirabile
. Taraxacum officinale (syn. T. Officinale subsp. Vulgare), the
common dandelion found in many forms

. Taraxacum pankhurstianum – the St. Kilda dandelion

. Taraxacum platycarpum – the Korean dandelion

. Taraxacum pseudoroseum

. Taraxacum suecicum
 Taraxacum albidum

Taraxacum californicum
Taraxacum japonicum

Taraxacum laevigatum
Taraxacum officinale
DIFFERENT CULTIVARS

. “Ameliore a Coeur Plein” yields an abundant crop without

taking up very much ground, and it tends to blanch itself
natually due to its clumping growth habit.

. “Broad leaved” - The leaves of this plant are thick and tender
and easily blanched. In rich soils, these plants can be up to 60
cm or 2 inches wide. Plants do not go to seed as quickly as the
French types.

. “Vert de Montmagny” which is a large leaved plant, vigorous

grower, which matures early.
 PLANTS HISTORY

The Common Dandelion.

The “Dandelions”, are thought to have evolved about 30

million years ago in Eurasia. The fossil seeds that were found
of Taraxacum tanaiticum has been recorded from the Pliocene
to southern Belarus.

Dandelions have been used by humans for food

and as a herb for much recorded history. These plants were

well known to the:
 – Early Egyptians

– Greeks

– Romans

– Chinese

and are recorded to have been used in traditional Chinese

medicine for over a 1,000 years. The plant was used as food
ans also used as medicine by the Native Americans.

These plants were probably frought to North America by the

early settlers that was on the Mayflower for their propsed
medical benefits.
 ETYMOLOGY

The Latin name “Taraxacum” originates in medieval Arabic

writings on pharmacy. The scientist whose name was Al-Razi
around 900 CE wrote, “The Tarashaquq is like chicory”. Al-Razi
and philosopher Ibn Sina around 1,000 CE wrote a book
chapter on Taraxacum.
Gerard of Cremona, in translating Arabic to Latin around
1,170, spelled it tarasacon.

Common names:

The English name, dandelion, is a corruption of the French

dent de lion that means “Lion's tooth”, probably referring to
the coarsely toothed leaves.

The leaf resembles the tooth of a

lion (French: dent-de-lion)
The plant is also known as:

– Blowball

– Cankerwort

– Doon-Head-Clock

– Witche's gowan

– Milk witch

– Lion's tooth

– Yellow gowan

– Irish daisy

– Monk's head

– Priest's crown

– Puff ball

other common names also include:

 – Faceclock

– Pee-a-bed

– Wet-a-bed

– Swine' snout

– White endive

– and Wild endive

The English folk name, (“Piss-a-bed”, which is indeed the

equivalent contemporary French pissenlit), refers to a strong
diuretic effect of the plant's roots.

In various northeastern Italian dialects, the plant is known as,

“Pisacan” or (“Dog's Pisses”), because they are found at the
side of pavements.

In Swedish, it is called, “Maskros” or the (Worm Rose) after

the nymphs of small insects, (thrips larvae), that is usually
present in the flowers.
 NUTRITION

Raw dandelion greens contain high amounts of vitamin A,

vitamin C, vitamin K, and a moderate sources of:
 – Calcium

– Potassium

– Iron

– Manganese

The raw dandelion green are:

– 86% water

– 9% carbohydrates

– 3% protein

– 1% fat

A 100 gram or 3 1/2 ounces preference amount supplies 45

Calories.
PHYTOCHEMICALS

The Raw Flower.

The raw flower of the dandelion contain diverse
phytochemicals, including polyphenols, such as:

– Flavonoids

– Apigenin

– Isoquercitrin (a quercetin like compound)

– Caffeic asid

– Terpenoids

– Triterpense

– Sesquiterpense

The roots contain a substantial amount of the prebiotic fiber

insulin. Dandelion grass also contains lutein.

Taraxalisin, a serine proeinase, is also found in the latex of the

dandelion roots. Maximal activity of the proteinase in the
roots is attained in April, at the beginning of the plant
development after the winter period.
Each dandelion seed has a mass (weight) of 500 micrograms or
0.0005 grams or (1/125 of a grain).

Four dandelions in the field.

 PROPERTIES

Properties Of Dandelions.
EDIBILITY

The entire plant is edible including the:

– Leaves

– Stem

– Flowers

– Roots

and it is nutritious, with nutrients such as:

– Vitamin A

– Vitamin K

– Calcium

– Iron
The dandelions are found on six different continents and they
have been gathered for food since prehistory, but the
varieties commercially that is cultivated for human
consumption are mainly native plants to Eurasia and North
America.

A perennial plant, its leaves grow back if the taproot is left

intact. To make the leaves more palatable, they are often
blanched to remove the bitterness, or sauteed in the same
was as you do spinach.

The dandelion greens has been a part of traditional cooking

such as:

– Kashmiri cuisine

– Spanish cuisine

– Italian cuisine

– Albanian cuisine

– Slovenian cuisine
 – Sephardic Jewish cuisine

– Chinese Cuisine

– Greek cuisine

– Korean cuisine

However in Crete, the leaves of the variety called:

– “Mari” (Mapi)

– “Mariaki” (Mapiaki)

– “Koproradiko”

are eaten by the local people, either raw or boiled, in salads.

T. Megalorhizon, a species endemic to Crete, is eaten in the
same way; it is found only in high altitude of 1,000 to 1,600
meters or 3,300 to 5,2oo feet, and in fallow sites and it is
called “Pentaramia” or Agrioradiko”.

The flower petals, along with other ingredients, usually

including citrus, are used to make dandelion wine. Its ground,
roasted roots can be used as a caffeine free coffee alternative.

Dandelion was also traditionally used to make the traditional

British soft drink dandelion and burdock, and it is one of the
ingredients that is in root beer. Dandelions were once
considered delicacies by the Victorian gentry, who used them
mostly in salads and sandwiches.

A Dandelion Dish.
A plate of sauteed dandelion greens
with Hehani rice.
 OTHER USE FOR
DANDELIONS

Dandelions has other uses also.

DYE

The yellow flowers of the dandelion can be dried and

grounded into a yellow pigmented powder and can be used as
a dye.

ALLERGIES

Dandelion pollen may cause allergic reactions when they are

eaten, or adverse skin reaction in sensitive people. Contact
dermatitis after handling has also been reported, probably
from the latex in the stems and leaves.

Pollen from dandelions.

HERBALISM

Dandelions ave been used in traditional medicine in:

– Europe

– North America

– China

Flower head and seed head.

BENEFITS TO GARDENERS

With a wide range of uses, the dandelion is cultivated in a

small to massive farms. It is kept as a companion plant; its
taproot brings up the nutrients for shallow rooting plants. It is
also known to attract pollinating insects and release ethylene
gas, which helps other fruits to ripen.

CULTURAL IMPORTANCE

It has been a Western tradition for someone to flow out a

dandelion seedhead and make a wish that they want to come
true.

Five dandelion flowers are the emblem of White Sulphur

Springs, West Virginia. The people celebrate spring with an
annual Dandelion Festival.

The dandelion is the official flower of the University of

Rochester in the New York State, and the, “Dandelion Yellow”,
is one of the schools official colours. “The Dandelion Yellow”,
is an official University of Rochester song.

INSPIRATION FOR ENGINEERING

The ability of the dandelion seeds to travel as far as a

kilometer in dry, windy and warm conditions, has been an
inspiration for designing light weight passive drones.

In a study that was done in 2018, scientists and researchers

discovered that dandelion seeds have a separated vortex ring.
This work provided evidence that dandelion seed have fluid
behavior around fluid immersed bodies that may help to
understand locomotion, weight reduction and particle
retention in biological and man made structures.

In 2022, scientists at the University of Washington has

demonstrated battery free wireless sensors and computers
that mimic dandelion seeds and can float in the wind and
disperse across a large area.

AS A SOURCE OF NATURAL RUBBER

Dandelions secrete latex when the tissue are cut or broken,

yet in the wild type, the latex content is low and varies
greatly. Taraxacum kok-saghyz which is the Russian dandelion,
is a species that produce industrially useful amounts during
World War 2. Using modern cultivation methods and
optimization techniques. The scientists in the Fraunhofer
Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME) in
Germany developed a cultivar of the Russian dandelion that is
suitable for current commercial production of natural rubber.
The latex produced exhibits the same quality as the natural
rubber from rubber trees. In collaboration with Continental
AG, IME is building a pilot facility. As of May 2014, the first
prototype test tires made with blends from dandelion rubber
are schedualed for testing on public roads over the next few
years. In December 2017, Linglong Group Co. Ltd., a Chinese
company has invested $450 million into making commercially
viable rubber from dandelions.
FOOD FOR WILDLIFE

A bee on a dandelion.
SEEDS

Taraxacum seeds are an important food source for certain

birds (Linnets, Linaria spp.).

NECTAR

Dr. Szabo studied nectar secretion in a dandelion patch over

two years, (59.2 and 8.9 flowers per square meter or 5.50 and
0.83 square foot in 1981 and in 1982. He measured the
average nectar volume at 7.4 ul flower in 1981 and 3.7 ul
flower in 1982.

The flowers tended to open in the morning and close in the

afternoon with the concentrations significantly higher on the
second day.

LEAVES
Dandelions are used as food plants by the larvae of some
species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths).

Dandelions are used for bees, butterflies

and moths.
 INVASIVE SPECIES

These plants are an invasive species.

INVASIVE SPECIES

Dandelions can cause great economic damage as an invasive

species and infestation of other crops worldwide; in some
jurisdictions, the species Taraxacum officinale is listed as a
noxious weed.

It can also be considered invasive in protected areas such as

national parks. For example, Denali National Park and
Preserve in Alaska lists the plant Taraxacum officinale as the
most common invasive species that is in the park and hosts an
annual, “Dandelion Demolition”, event where volunteers are
trained to remove the plant from the park's roadsides.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF
DANDELIONS

Chart.
Dandelions are rich in antioxidants and the plant can play an
important part in a balanced lifestyle. Potential health
benefits include lowering blood pressure, regulating your
blood sugar, and managing your weight.

Dandelions are a rich source of vitamin C and A, potassium

plus iron. This plant and its leaves were used over the
centuries for medicinal purposes, including the treatment of
dental issues, baldness, and dandruff, liver functions, and
even mental ailments such as depression and lethargy.
Because of its antioxidant, containing beta-carotene
polyphenols.

Dandelions may benefit human health in a number of

different ways as part of a balanced diet and supplement
regime. However, as with all dietary or supplement changes, it
is best to speak first with your medical doctor or with a health
provider.
Here are a list of the many health benefits that dandelions can
help you with:

1. Dandelions are one of the most effective toxin removers,

it can help with, blood, lymph and liver cleansing.
2. It is very high in nutrition. Dandelions is a source of fiber,
and vitamins such as: A, C. E, K, folate and a small
amount of other B vitamins. It provides minerals like
iron, calcium and potassium.
3. Dandelions are full of antioxidants. Antioxidants are
molecules that help to neutralize or prevent the negative
effects of free radicals in the body. In addition,
antioxidant capabilities can prevent a person from aging
and protects you from certain diseases.
4. Dandelions can boost immune system. Scientific studies
has found that dandelion extract has an antiviral and
antimicrobial effect, thus, making it a good antibacterial
agent.
5. Dandelions may fight against HIV. Studies over the past
has demonstrated that dandelion extract powerfully acts
against HIV-1.
6. Promotes liver function and it is an excellent liver
cleanser. Many animal studies that was done has shown
that dandelion has a protective effect on liver tissue in
the presence of toxic substances and stress. The result of
this study has also indicated, that this plant presents a
promising approach for the prevention and treatment of
obesity related nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
7. Dandelions can fight inflammation. Inflammation is one
of the body's natural responses to illness. However, too
much inflammation build up can lead to permanent
damage to the body's tissues ans DNA. Many studies
have revealed that dandelions can be an anti-
imflammatory agent.
8. Dandelions may help to treat anemia. Because of its high
iron content, dandelions is used to support the treatment
of anemia.
9. Dandelions supports the treatment of chronic ulcer, joint
stiffness and tuberculosis.
10. Dandelions may help to support blood sugar and
type-2-diabetes. Chicoric and chlorogenic acids are the
two bioactive compounds that are found in dandelions
which may help to reduce blood sugar.
11. Dandelions are used as a diuretic, for increasing the
production of urine. Dandelions have been
recommended to be used as a diuretic. However, some
researchers have suggested that the diuretic activity in
this plant may be due to its high potassium content that
is contained in the leaves and in the roots of the plant.
Diuretics are substances that promote diuresis, which is
the increased production of urine in the body. They also
are anti-swelling agents. Diuretics promote the
elimination of electrolytes and water from the body
through a variety of mechanisms, thereby reducing the
amount of extracellular water.
12. Dandelions may lower blood pressure. The
dandelion may lower blood pressure which is due to its
diuretic effect and potassium content.
13. Dandelions may reduce cholesterol. Some of the
bioactive compounds that are found in dandelions may
lower cholesterol in the body, which may decrease heart
disease risk, and can prevent you from getting a stroke.
14. Dandelions can relieve the body from excess heat.
15. Dandelions may help you to lose weight. Some
scientists as well as researchers has theorize that
dandelion's ability to improve carbohydrate metabolism
and reduce fat absorption can lead to weight loss.
16. Dandelion kills cancer cells. In other test tube
studies that was done, tests has shown that dandelion
root extract has the capacity to dramatically slow down
the growth of cancer cells in the liver, colon and in
pancreatic tissues.
17. Dandelions support bile secretion, healthy digestion
and fights constipation. In one animal study that was
done has shown that a significant increase in the rates of
stomach contractions and emptying of stomach contents
into the small intestines in (rats), who were treated with
dandelion extract.
18. Dandelionsn can be a useful skincare treatment.
Many animal and test tube research have indicated that
dandelions may protect the skin against skin damage that
is caused by sunlight, aging and acne.
19. Dandelions may support healthy bones. In addition,
the green parts of this plant are a good source of calcium
and vitamin K which both are associated with the
prevention of bone loss.
DRINKING DANDELION TEA

Drinking dandelion tea with some honey.

DRINKING DANDELION TEA

Drinking some dandelion tea will strengthen your health. For

example, dandelion roots and the stems help to fight
diabetes. It is because they stimulate the pancreas to produce
insulin, that which in turn stabilizes the blood sugar levels.

If you have any digestive problems or that you need to get rid
of some toxins, the dandelion tea may be exactly what you
need, what your family doctor prescribes as a herbal remedy.
The live produces bile in the digestive system and also filters
the blood from chemicals and other impurities. Vitamins and
minerals that are found in this plant helps to cleans and
maintain liver health.

Dandelion leaves are bitter but they are perfectly edible.

These leaves are high in fiber, that helps improve bowel
functions. In addition, fiber reduces the risk of obesity, heart
disease, stroke, and irritable bowel syndrome or (IBS) in short.
The leaves are also high in vitamin A, one cup contains 100%
of your daily requirements. Vitamin A is very important for
maintaining healthy eyesight and also helps prevent
premature skin aging.

If you don't want to eat a cup of bitter dandelion leaves, you

can add them to your mornings smoothie or salad. Mix them
in your blender with your favourite fruits or with your
favourite vegetables that will balance out the bitter taste of
the leaves.

We know that dandelion tea contains nutrients, such as

vitamin A, that can be beneficial to a person's health.

AN ALTERNATIVE HOT BEVERAGE

Dandelion tea may help to reduce inflammation in the body.

Scientists suggested that all parts of the dandelion plant
contain many natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
compounds.
Many doctors believe that inflammation plays a role in many
kinds of disease. Although they have found NO PROVEN link
between drinking dandelion tea and a reduction in
inflammatory related diseases, but they have found that it is
possible that the compounds in this plant could promote
better overall health by reducing inflammation in the body.

Dandelion tea that is ready to drink.

CHOLESTEROL LOWERING EFFECTS

According to a study that was done in 2012 in Nutrition

Reviews, dandelions may reduce hyperlipidemia in (rats).
Hyperlipidemia is an abnormally high level of lipids, which
includes cholesterol, that is found in the blood.

The scientists and researchers theory is that the dandelion

extract has an inhibitory effect on panceatic lipase, an enzyme
which is the key to digesting fat. Restricting this enzyme's
activity could alter the way that in which the body absorbs fat.

REDUCING LIVER DAMAGE

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), people

have used dandelions in traditional medicine for years,
believing that it can treat health problems that is related to
the liver, gallbladder, and the bile duct.
Also according to the Nutrition Reviews, which done a study
also suggested that the dandelion root lessens the extent of
liver damage in (rats).

DIURETIC EFFECTS

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the tell

that dandelion also have a history of use as a natural diuretic.
Its diuretic effects means that “Dandelion Tea”, encourages
both urination and drinking more of any beverage will
typically encourage fluid release because the kidneys maintain
water balance in the body.

It is possible that dandelion may help the kidneys to release

more water to reduce sensations of bloating and discomfort.

FIGHTING THE FLU

The same study uses in vitro testing to look at the effects of

dandelion extract on human influenza virus A. The extract led
to a reduction in virus levels, and there were no harmful
effects on healthy cells. Dandelion tea cannot be a substitute
for the flu vaccine, but it may ease the symptoms and can help
with recovery.

Field Of Dandelions.
DANDELION CAN POTENTIALLY CURE CANCER

Dandelions root boosts immune system and improves the

blood. According to Dr. Carolyn Hamm from the Windsor
Regional Cancer Center in Ontario, Canada. She says that,
“Dandelion root extract is the only thing that helps with
chronic myelomonocytes. This kind of cancer usually affects
older people”.

For example one of her patients whose name is JOHN DI

CARLO, a 72 year old cancer patient in the hospital, was sent
home to die after all effects to cure his leukemia had failed.
He told the CBC News that as a last chance, it was suggested
to him to drink dandelion tea. Maybe it should have been the
first choice in his treatment plan, because the cancer came
back only four months later. His doctors associated it with
drinking the dandelion tea.

Recent studies have shown that dandelion root extract can

work very effectively on cancer cells, as demonstrated by Di
Carlo's practice.
Within 48 hours after contact with the dandelion extract, the
cancer cells began to degrade. The body replaced them with
whole new cells.

In addition, many other studies have shown that the extract is

also useful for other forms of cancer such as:

– Breast cancer

– Colon cancer

– Prostate cancer

– Liver cancer

– Lung cancer

The taste of the dandelion root tea is not pleasant as other

teas, but it is certainly more comfortable than undergoing
chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Traditional cancer therapies damage the immune system by

killing all cells, even the healthy cells. Dandelion root has the
opposite effect, it strengthens the immune system and only
kills the diseased cells.

The dandelion flower head.

 HEALTH RISKS

Some Health Risks For Dandelions.

SOME HEALTH RISKS

It is very important to “note”, that there are some people who

has allergic reactions to the, “Dandelion Root and Teas”.
According to the National Institute Of Health which warn that
people are more likely to be allergic to dandelions if they are
also allergic to similar plants, such as the list below:

– Daisy

– Marigold

– Ragweed

– Chrysanthemum

CAUTION

A person should be careful when you consume dandelion root

as the plant can cause excessive excitement. In addition, the
dandelion can cause:
 – Cardiac arrhythmias

– Nausea

– Vomiting

– Diarrhea

Therefore, it is recommended that you should consult with a

qualified therapist or with a family doctor when you are
pregnant, breast-feeding, or taking other types of
medications.

SUPPLEMENT AND DOSAGE FORMS

You can eat dandelion leaves, stems and flowers in their

natural state, raw or cooked. Roots are usually dried, ground
and consumed as a tea or extract.

This superplant is also available in dietary supplement forms

such as:
 – Extracts

– Tintures

– Capsuls

The dandelion leaves are sometimes present in salads, but a

person cannot find them in all areas. Picking dandelions in a
backyard is unsafe due to the potential presence of pesticides
or animal excrement.

However, it is possible to obtain dandelion supplements or

teas and coffee infused with dandelion root. The United
States Food and Drug Administeration (FDA) has recognized
dandelion as generally being safe to include in food products.

Date on safe doses of dandelion supplements is limited.

Please note here that dandelion supplements can cause
allergic reactions in some people. You should not take or use
dandelion supplements if you are sensitive to dandelions, or
certain other plants and flowers, such as ragweed, daisies,
marigolds, or chrysanthemums.

However, there are NO CLEAR consensus of dosage guidelines,

so it is always advised to follow the instructions that are on
the package.

Dandelion supplements on the market.

Supplements on the market.
EXTRAS
DANDELIONS IN YOUR GARDEN

WHILE MANY PEOPLE think of dandelions as a weed and that

they are a nuisance in the backyard, they are actually really
good for the grass as their roots spread wide, acting as an
aerator for the soil. While their roots also soak up nutrients
from the deeper soil and spread those mutrients throughout
the entire yard working as a fertilizer.
However, since dandelions aren't exactly wanted in a yard,
many homeowners have discovered just how difficult it is to
get rid of them; dandelions are a hard plant to kill.

These plants spring up virtually overnight, growing quickly it is

next to impossible to catch them before they have had time to
flower or become seedheads.

Seedhead of a dandelion.
And these plants go to seed within days of flowering, taking
only the wind to spread the seeds all over the yard, and the
process begins all over again.

Even though they grow fast, these plants they live for years
and their roots grow down deep into the soil.

WHAT IS WORSE, if the root is cut in half, the plant can clone
itself and the whole new plant can grow from just an inch of
the root that is left behind.

THE SAFEST WAY to get rid of unwanted weeds like dandelion

growth is to let your grass grow just a bit longer, about four
inches tall, to create shade on the lower soil. Dandelion need
sunlight to grow and they will not survive in shady areas.

DANDELION SYMBOLISM

The dandelion plant are a symbol for healing, whether from

emotional or physical pain, and also surviving hard times as
dandelions are the most persistent plant that never gives up.

When you give a person or someone that you love a single

dandelion or a bouquet, you are giving a message of hope,
telling them, “NOT TO GIVE UP”, and to persevere to sunnier
times ahead.

HOW DO YOU EAT DANDELIONS?

These plants (the dandelions), can be eaten in just about any

way that you can think of. Dandelion greens are often added
to salads and can be added to any dish as a herb.

Dandelions are versatile, their dried roots are sold as a coffee

substitute in stores, and it can be used to make dandelion tea,
and there is even dandelion wine. It can be used to make ice
cream and baked desserts, as well as savory dishes such as
quiche.
DANDELION RECIPES

Dandelion Field Good For Picking.

 DANDELION PUMPKIN PESTO

MAKES: 1 cup
PREHEAT OVEN: 350 degrees F.
COOKING TIME: 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

3/4 cup unsalted hulled (green) pumpkin seeds

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

1 bunch dandelion greens (about 2 cups, loosely packed)

1 tbsp lemon juice

1/2 cup extra-virgin oil

1/2 tsp salt

Black pepper (to taste)

METHOD:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Pour the pumpkin seeds unto a shallow rimmed baking sheet
and roast until just fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Remove from the oven and allow the seeds to cool.

Pulse the garlic and pumpkin seeds together in the bowl of a

food processor until it is very finely chopped.

Add the Parmesan cheese, dandelion greens, and lemon juice

and process continously until it is well combined.

Stop the processor every now and then to scrape down the
sides of the bowl.

Presto will be very thick and difficult to process after awhile.

If too thick than add 1 tsp of water.

PICTURE GALLERY
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