He dandelion(Taraxacum officinale is the most common species) is a plant that you find easily on walks in the countryside and is also one of the medicinal plants with more important and proven effects.

With anti-inflammatory, regenerating and digestive properties, among others, it has been used for thousands of years to treat countless physical ailments, above all digestive disorders and liver diseases.

Dandelion leaves can be eaten cooked or raw and serve as a excellent source of vitamins A, C and K. They also contain vitamin E, folic acidsmall amounts of B vitaminsand inulin, the type of fiber most beneficial for the health of the intestinal microbiota.

They also provide a significant amount of several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium and silicon.

But the medicinal properties of dandelion are due to the combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as beta-carotene and polyphenols, chicoric, chlorogenic and taraxinic acids, phytol and tetracosanol.

What is dandelion used for?

Among the most studied properties of dandelion, the following stand out.

1. Regulates metabolism

This peculiar formula of nutrients and bioactive compounds offers a series of beneficial effects on the metabolism:

• Helps control sugar levels.
• Stimulates insulin secretion.
• Regulates glucose levels.
• Reduces the absorption of fats.
• Promotes cholesterol control.

According to a study published in The Review of Diabetic Studiesdandelion contains up to ten compounds with antidiabetic effectincluding some of those mentioned above, such as chlorogenic and taraxinic acid, but also quercetin and several sesquiterpene lactones.

2. Regenerates the liver

Animal studies have confirmed one of the main properties attributed to dandelion by traditional medicine: the ability to regenerate the liver and protect it against toxic substances and excess fat.

3. It has anti-cancer action

Perhaps one of the most interesting properties of dandelion – specifically, the extract of the leaves and the root – is its potential to prevent the growth of cancer cells in different organs.

Studies carried out in vitro have shown that the dandelion root extract It has the ability to drastically reduce the growth of cancer cells in the liver, colon, skin, blood and pancreatic tissue.

These findings are encouraging, but more studies are needed to test whether dandelion can be useful in treating cancer in humans.

4. Improves digestion

Traditional natural medicine uses dandelion to treat constipation and other symptoms of poor digestion deteriorated. These effects are most likely due to the prebiotic inulin content.

According to studies, inulin can improve several aspects of digestion, such as the balance of the microbiota, the consistency of the stool or the speed of intestinal transit, which could be beneficial both in cases of constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.

5. Prevents infections

Some research indicates that dandelion may have properties antimicrobial and antiviral. Several in vitro studies have found that dandelion extract significantly reduces the replication capacity of harmful viruses and bacteria.

6. Improves the condition of the skin

Animal research indicates that dandelion leaf and flower extracts protect the skin against damage caused by solar radiation, aging and acne. They enhance the generation of new cells in the skin, which could delay the aging process.

They also reduce inflammation and irritation of the skin, while increasing hydration and collagen production. This may be helpful in preventing and treating certain types of acne.

How do you take dandelion?

Dandelion leaves, stems and flowers can be consumed in yournatural state and raw (in salad, for example) or they can be eaten cooked. The root is usually dried, ground, and consumed as a tea or coffee substitute.

He dandelion It is also available in capsules, extracts and tinctures.

The recommended doses The different presentations of dandelion are:

• Fresh leaves: 4–10 g/day
• Dry leaves: 4–10 g/day
• Leaf tincture: 0.4–1 teaspoon (2–5 ml), three times a day
• Fresh leaf juice: 1 teaspoon (5 ml), twice a day
• Fluid extract: 1–2 teaspoon (5–10 ml), daily
• Fresh roots: 2–8 g/day
• Dry powder: 250–1,000 mg, four times a day

Precautions and contraindications

The dandelion has a low toxicity and it is likely safe for most people, especially when consumed as food. in some people can cause allergic reactionsas with any food.

Some studies indicate that it has estrogenic action, so it may be contraindicated in patients with estrogen-sensitive cancer.

If you take medication, especially diuretics and antibiotics, it is advisable to consult your doctor if there are contraindications.