Dandelion root: medicinal properties and contraindications

Dandelion root is part of a perennial plant that is unpretentious in growth, has a wide range of distribution. This inconspicuous herb is endowed with strong medicinal qualities. It is in the root part of the culture that all the healing substances are concentrated. This is mentioned in the papyruses of ancient Egypt, and such raw materials were used by Avicenna and Hippocrates. Due to the high concentration of biologically active components, dandelion root now finds application in the culinary field, cosmetology, and in folk medicine.

Chemical composition

1. The root of this flower contains water-soluble vitamins, namely tretinol, ascorbic acid, tocopherol, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin. Of the minerals found here are magnesium, iron, potassium, copper, selenium, zinc, phosphorus. In addition, the root part of the plant contains organic acids, plant proteins, polysaccharides and fatty oils.
2. In the composition of the dandelion root can be distinguished such a substance as inulin. This chemical compound has a positive effect on the immune system, strengthening it, helps normalize blood glucose levels.
3. Choline is a component that charitably affects the reduction of cholesterol in the blood. Additionally, this component acts as a prophylactic agent for cleaning the liver.
4. Triterpene acids in the composition of the plant are endowed with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to cope with various diseases.
5. Of the bitternesses, the glycoside taraxacin can be highlighted. It ensures the production of gastric juice, and is also responsible for the timely excretion of bile.
6. Dandelion roots contain fatty acids that reduce cholesterol levels in human blood, which leads to normalization of the cardiovascular system.
7. In the root of this herb there is such a substance as sterol. Its task is to remove bile and excess fluid from the human body. This reduces the likelihood of stroke and heart attack.
8. Carotenoids in the composition of the herb can improve vision and restore metabolic processes, due to which the weight is normalized.
9. In addition, the roots of the dandelion allocated a lot of minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates, resins of organic origin and tannins.

Despite the large list of chemical compounds, which have a beneficial effect on the internal organs and systems, these substances can also lead to allergic reactions. This is why the use of dandelion root for medicinal purposes should be carried out only after consultation with a specialist. This applies to people who have an allergic predisposition.

Harvesting and storage

Several centuries ago, village women always harvested the root of this plant. It was believed that every good housewife should have such a raw material. This is due to the fact that the root part of such a herb was able to replace most of the medicines, as dandelion beneficially influenced a number of human organs and systems.

It is necessary to collect such raw materials in early spring, when the grass has not yet let the valuable sap up, or in the fall, when the leaves of the plant are already fading. Autumn is considered the best time to gather the roots, since during the summer the root part of the dandelion fills up and accumulates a lot of useful substances. In summer, you should not collect such raw materials, because all the power of the herb during this period is concentrated in the leaves and flowers.

To collect the roots you will need a shovel. It is necessary to dig out large and ripe plants, as their roots are larger. After digging, they should be cleaned of stems and leaves. The root must be thoroughly washed, and the sooner this is done, the better. If possible, the root should be washed immediately in a river or other body of water by lowering the basket with the roots and a couple of times in the water. The roots should then be lightly dried for several hours so that no white liquid can be extracted from the cut. Only after this procedure dandelion roots can be sent to the main drying.

Dry such valuable raw materials should be in a well-ventilated room, in the shade. The attic is perfect for this purpose. Drying herbal raw materials under sunlight is inadmissible, otherwise the component in the form of a glycoside begins to break down under the influence of ultraviolet light. For accelerated drying, you can use an oven. Another recommendation is to mince the roots first and only then dry the pulp with regular stirring. This will ensure faster drying, but it should be remembered that the storage of such raw materials is much less. Thoroughly dried roots are quite dense, breaking with a crackle. On the outside they are darker in color, and at the break there is a light coloring.

Store dried dandelion root in a wooden or cardboard box or in a canvas bag. Be sure to be in a container soaked in absorbent cotton chlorophyllipt. This is to protect the product from pests and rodents.

Therapeutic properties of dandelion root

As already mentioned, the composition of the dandelion root contains many useful components, thanks to which the body has a great positive effect.

1. First of all, we should note the beneficial effect of the plant on blood vessels and blood. Decoction based on such raw materials can improve the condition of blood vessels, make them more elastic, cleanse them from cholesterol deposits. In addition, dandelion is able to purify and thin the blood, reducing the likelihood of blood clots. This is due to the high concentration of calcium and potassium, which are required for normal heart function.
2. Dandelion root is used as one of the best ways to cleanse the liver and gallbladder. The product allows you to remove small stones and bile from the organ. However, in this case, it is necessary to treat with dandelion only after consulting a doctor. After all, if the bile ducts are obstructed, such a healing decoction can only harm. In addition, the healing remedy will help cleanse the liver during long-term medication treatment, as well as after alcohol poisoning and intoxication by toxic substances.
3. In the composition of the root part of the herb there are substances that ensure the secretion of gastric juice, improve appetite. This property of the plant is appreciated in gastritis, which runs with reduced production of gastric juice. If you regularly consume decoction of dandelion root, restores digestion, better digestion of food.
4. As noted, inulin, which is necessary for the human endocrine system, was found in the composition of the herb. This is especially appreciated by diabetics. With the regular use of herbal decoction restores metabolism, leaves excess weight, stabilizes the metabolism. Decoction of dandelion roots has an analgesic effect. Such a composition will help cleanse the bowels, if a glass of drink will be drunk in small sips on an empty stomach. In addition, the bitterness in the dandelion is poisonous to parasites. If you take a decoction of roots for a week, the worms will die and leave the intestines naturally.
5. Decoctions and infusions based on the root of the dandelion are used in the fight against colds. Such preparations have a strong anti-inflammatory effect, increase immunity, suppress the development of bacteria in the human body. Moreover, such a herbal decoction is used as an antipyretic for fever, the cause of which is an acute respiratory infection. Such a liquid can also be used when coughing, as it is endowed with expectorant properties.
6. Very useful is considered dandelion root for the functioning of the urinary system, especially the female one. Such preparations are an excellent way to treat and prevent cystitis. Regular consumption of decoctions of the root helps to get rid of edema, that is, to remove excess fluid from the body.
7. Such compositions are also useful for external application. On the basis of decoctions and infusions can make baths for gout, arthritis. Since the dandelion root has anti-inflammatory properties, potions based on it can be used for furunculosis, allergies, eczema. In addition, such remedies are effective for burns and abrasions. You can use such a decoction in the fight against bedsores. The constituents of this plant are able to increase blood circulation, as well as to activate the cell renewal processes of the skin.
8. The product is effective for a variety of cosmetic defects. Thus, with the help of decoctions you can get rid of age spots, freckles and unwanted tan. Dandelion is used for problem skin types. Thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of the herb, you can get rid of acne and comedones.

For women

Dandelion remedies are recommended for women with neoplasms in the mammary glands, diseases of the urogenital system, cystitis. The use of such a drug is shown in functional ovarian cysts, anemia, hormonal failure, diseases of the musculoskeletal system, severe menstrual pain.

You can use dandelion root during menopause, when there is an imbalance between hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This imbalance can lead to the development of polyps, myomas, endometriosis. In this case, it is recommended to drink decoctions of dandelion root for several months. In this case, the daily rate is one glass of drink.

You can also collect the roots of the plant, grind them to a mushy state and apply to neoplasms on the breast of a woman, so that the tumors resorbed. You can cure inflamed hemorrhoids and also stop uterine bleeding with the same pulp. However, in this case it should be wrapped in gauze and used as tampons.

For men

Root fruit has long been used by the representatives of the stronger sex to increase potency. Experts believe that such a beneficial effect of the product on the preservation of male health is associated primarily with a high concentration of vitamins in the root part of the plant. Vitamins C and A can normalize muscle function, reduce fatigue and eliminate general weakness. Tocopherol in the composition of the herb stimulates the work of the sex glands. Dandelion roots are high in mineral content, moreover, they make the sperm cells viable. The beneficial effect of dandelion composition on the activity of the nervous system of men is also noted.

Rich in vitamins, the product helps to normalize blood cholesterol levels, preventing overweight. The chemical components in the root vegetable reduce the synthesis of estrogen, i.e. the female hormone. This allows you to increase sex attraction to the opposite sex.

Along with various healing decoctions and infusions, the use of fresh or dried roots is also allowed. They can be introduced into the usual diet as one of the components of salads and other drinks.

When pregnant

Despite the many positive properties, doctors still recommend limiting the use of such a product during pregnancy. This is due to the fact that the roots of the herb contain phytohormones, that is, components that increase the appetite, as well as substances that have a laxative effect. All this can worsen the condition of a pregnant woman, especially in the presence of toxicosis.

During the breastfeeding period.

As for the period of breastfeeding, at this time, preparations based on dandelion root can stimulate the synthesis of breast milk. If you drink a glass of the drink in small portions during the day, the amount of milk will increase significantly. However, it should be noted that the milk will then have a bitter taste. Sometimes this can lead to the fact that the baby refuses natural feeding. Take such a composition should be taken in a warm state. The first reception of the herbal remedy should be accompanied by constant monitoring of the reaction of the child.

For children

To avoid allergic reactions when taking herbal remedies, products based on dandelion root should not be given to children under 12 years of age. After the child reaches this age, dandelion root can be used to treat colds, viral diseases, helminths and constipation.

Often children refuse to take decoctions and infusions because the drinks have a bitter taste. This bitterness can be eliminated by soaking the raw material in water for a day with the addition of a small amount of salt.

Before using such solutions for the treatment of children, it is important to consult a professional.

When losing weight

Thanks to the therapeutic qualities of the dandelion root, you can get rid of excess weight, which is provided by activating the vital processes of the human body. This refers to the restoration of normal metabolism, accelerating fluid excretion, breakdown of fats. At the same time, the optimal level of potassium is preserved in the body, since it is contained in the roots of the herb. The product has a diuretic and laxative effect. But at the same time, the plant is able to saturate the body with various vitamins and minerals. As a result, a person is protected from weakening of the body and a decrease in energy, which is often observed when following various diets.

To prepare a composition capable of reducing body weight, you need 20 grams of roots pour 1 liter of boiling water. Such a mixture should insist for 3 hours. After that, strain the solution and take 2 tbsp. spoonfuls before meals. You should not increase the dose, because the opposite effect, that is, an increase in appetite, may be observed.

You can also use such a low-calorie product as a fresh ingredient for making salads.

It is important to remember that the use of the roots of such a plant is able to reduce weight only in combination with a proper diet and certain physical exercises.

Dandelion root in folk medicine

Due to the fact that the healing qualities of the dandelion root have a wide range of effects on the human body, the plant has been called "Russian ginseng". It can be used fresh, dried, and crushed to a pulp. The raw material is used to obtain decoctions, infusions, oils, teas and extracts. Such medicinal compositions help to eliminate various diseases. So, herbal remedies based on such a product can be used for hypertension, to restore mobility, because they can restore cartilage tissues. Also, the plant will be effective for a weakened body, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

When diabetics.

Means based on the dandelion root provide the synthesis of insulin, which normalizes the glucose values in the blood of a person. Such a product can be consumed as a preventive measure to improve the condition and prevent sugar spikes in the body.

Due to the presence of inulin in its composition, the plant can be used instead of sugar, which is very important for diabetics. This natural ingredient helps to produce insulin, reducing glucose levels.

Sterols in the product ensure lipid, cholesterol and fat metabolism, as well as remove toxic elements from the body.

Most often, dandelion root is included in herbal gatherings in combination with blueberry and nettle leaves. If you take these three components in equal quantities and prepare an infusion, you get a remedy that should be taken on an empty stomach.

You can also use another decoction. In this case, you need to combine equal proportions of dandelion root and plantain. In any case, you should consult your doctor to protect yourself from the development of complications associated with gallbladder disorders or high acidity in the stomach.

For example, you can pour 1 tsp. of crushed roots of the herb with a mug of boiling water, insist about 20 minutes and filter. The resulting composition to take 50 ml 3 times a day.

There is another way. In this case, 1 tsp. crushed raw dandelion should be mixed with 3 tsp. mint leaves and a glass of boiling water. The resulting mass to simmer on low heat for a few minutes, cover, cool and filter. Take the solution in the same way.

When pancreatitis.

In gastroenterology, the product is valued for its secretory, laxative, antispasmodic properties. It allows you to cope with pancreatitis, restore the microflora of the intestine and stomach, normalize stool, protect a person from liver pathologies and reduce appetite.

To restore metabolic and digestive processes, it is recommended to drink tea from dried roots of dandelion every day. In this case, the proportion of raw materials and boiled water is 1 tsp. per 250 ml of water.

You can also prepare an infusion of 1 tbsp. plant component powder and 1 cup of cooled, pre-boiled water. This solution should be infused for 10 hours. The resulting mixture should be taken 4 times a day for 50 ml half an hour before a meal.

It should be noted that with pancreatitis occurring in the acute phase, take preparations based on dandelion root can not.

With gastritis

Gastritis, which is accompanied by low gastric juice secretion, can be treated with compositions of dandelion root. As for gastritis with increased levels of hydrochloric acid, in this case, decoctions and infusions on the basis of this herb should not be used.

From constipation

To get rid of constipation, you need to brew in 1 liter of hot water 2 tablespoons of powder from the root of the herb, to simmer over low heat for a quarter of an hour, cool and filter. The warm solution should be drunk 100 ml three times a day before a meal.

There is also another recipe. In this case, 1 tbsp. powder should be insisted in 50 ml of cold water overnight. The ready mixture should be taken 50 ml before meals several times during the day.

For the liver

Dandelion root is able to cleanse the body of toxins and toxic substances at the cellular level. This is because there are antioxidants in the composition of such plant raw materials, which prevent genetic damage to cells. This helps to reduce the likelihood of genetic mutations. To purify the organ, it is recommended to prepare a syrup based on the underground parts of the culture. Such a solution should be taken by 1 tbsp. spoon three times a day for 30 minutes before meals for 2 weeks. After the specified period, it is necessary to take a break of 14 days, and then repeat the course of therapy again.

In cholecystitis

It should also be noted that the dandelion root is characterized by a choleretic effect. This is due to the presence of beta-sitosterol in its composition. Such a component is used in the production of drugs used to improve the activity of the liver, gallbladder and organs of the entire digestive tract.

The bitterness of the herb has a choleretic effect. To prepare a healing decoction, you need 3 tablespoons of powder obtained from the roots of the herb, pour 2 cups of steep boiling water, boil on low heat for about 20 minutes, and then strain. Such a solution to take 100 ml for 30 minutes before a meal twice a day.

When oncology

If a person has a genetic predisposition to the development of cancer, it is recommended to use infusions and other dandelion root-based medicinal forms for preventive purposes. With cancer, the root of this herb can improve the condition of the patient, as well as suspend the development of metastases. A number of studies have shown that with the help of such a herbal raw material it is possible to get rid of a neoplasm in the breast. However, this does not mean that it is necessary to completely abandon the drugs of official medicine and stop undergoing chemotherapy if necessary.

To get such a useful decoction, you should take 3 tablespoons of dried roots and mix them with 500 ml of hot water. After that, boil the resulting composition for another quarter of an hour, and then filter it. Take such a solution 2 times a day in one cup. It is recommended to do this half an hour before a meal. Infusion based on such a product is an effective way in the fight against cancer cells, because the components of the herb are able to destroy them. In the summertime, it is best to use fresh dandelion for therapeutic purposes, and in winter you can already use dried raw materials.

With osteoarthritis

The composition of the dandelion root is high in calcium, which has a beneficial effect on the strength of the bone system. Thus, dandelion can protect against damage associated with age-related changes. This is also provided by an antioxidant such as luteolin.

Dandelion root will help restore cartilage tissue and dissolve salt deposits. To do this, pour a glass of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of dried raw material and leave it for half an hour. After the specified time, filter the liquid and take 1 tbsp. 3 times a day for 20 minutes before meals.

For coughs

Useful substances contained in the dandelion will help to cope with coughs. In this case, the raw material should be placed in a dish so that 3/4 of the container is filled with roots. The remaining volume of the container pour vodka or alcohol. The composition should infuse for three weeks. After this, filter the liquid, and further storage should be carried out in a dark place. If there is a cough, cold or sore throat, you can use 30 ml of the resulting tincture 3 times a day for 20 minutes before a meal.

Types of healing compositions

There are several basic recipes for making solutions based on dandelion root. They can be used to treat various kinds of diseases.

Infusion .

To obtain an infusion, you need to take 1 tbsp of the roots of the plant, as well as 250 ml of boiling water. Insist the mass for 30 minutes. Prepare such a solution at the rate of 1 day. If the treatment lasts longer, the solution is prepared fresh every day.

Tincture

Dandelion infused with vodka can be used only for the treatment of adults. To prepare the solution, both dry and fresh raw material can be used.

Pour the necessary amount of the product with vodka so that the raw material is immersed in the liquid. Insist the mixture for a month in a dark place. You can use the solution for therapeutic purposes for 12 months.

Decoction

The most common way to prepare dandelion root is a decoction. To do this, take 20 grams of crushed raw materials and 1 liter of boiling water. This amount of herbal component poured into a saucepan, pour water and bring to a boil. Boil the herb for 10 minutes. After that, let the liquid cool completely. Filtered liquid to take for 2 days. This is the shelf life of the decoction. The optimal dosage is 1 tbsp. spoon in 3 doses before meals.

Tea

To make the drink more useful, it is recommended that 1 tsp. root of this herb be added to a mug of black tea. Pour the herbal contents with boiling water and consume in a strained form after a quarter of an hour. The solution is the prevention of various diseases.

Oil

To obtain a healing composition, you need to mix dandelion roots and olive oil in a ratio of 1:4. After that, send the mixture to a dark place, where to insist for 14 days. Use the prepared solution for compresses and treatment of the affected areas of the body.

The ointment

To get an ointment based on dandelion, you should pass 50 grams of raw grass root through a meat grinder. The result is a pulp, which should be mixed with the same amount of butter. The resulting mass should infuse a few days. The shelf life of the ready-made ointment is 7 days, provided that it is stored in the refrigerator. Use such a dosage form should also be in cold form.

Powder .

From the root of the dandelion you can prepare a healing powder. Subsequently, it should be used in pure form by 1 tsp. spoon, while drinking plenty of liquid. No more than 3 tsp. spoonfuls can be used per day. To prepare a powdered mass, dried raw material should be ground in a blender or with a coffee grinder. If the product is stored in a tightly sealed container shelf life is greatly increased.

Cosmetic Applications

Dandelion root can affect the internal organs. Despite this, the plant is popular for facial skin care and hair care. The convenience of using this part of the herb is that it can be used not only fresh, but also in dried form throughout the year.

Such inexpensive cosmetic compositions based on medicinal herbs can cope with reduced skin tone, age spots, warts, acne and pimples. Various sunburns, rashes, seborrhea, and hair loss can also be treated with this component.

In addition to oil, cream and infusion, you can also get a powder based on the root. To do this, you just need to thoroughly grind the dried roots with a coffee grinder.

The raw material can be used to enrich finished cosmetics, that is, various masks, balsams and shampoos, or the preparation of tonic, soap and lotion with their own hands.

Such cosmetics have a wide range of applications. They will help to get rid of various defects of the dermis, remove toxic compounds, cope with inflammation of the skin surface, as well as to soothe "naughty" curls.

With a problematic type of skin, you can prepare a lotion that will help saturate the dermis with beneficial substances, make it smooth, eliminate increased oiliness, narrow pores, relieve tension and accelerate the process of tissue renewal. To prepare such a useful product, you need to crush the roots of the plant along with the rest of the herbs. Place the herbal raw materials in a glass jar, pour alcohol in equal proportions. After that, cover the container with a lid and send it for 2 weeks in a cool place protected from light. After that, filter the solution and mix with chilled boiled water in a ratio of 1:2. Duration of storage of the lotion is 7 days. Before each use the cosmetic must be shaken.

You can add a moisturizing oil to such a lotion, which is suitable for a certain type of dermis. Such a lotion should be applied before going to bed, applying to the cleansed skin of the face with massaging movements.

The juice of the plant is also used for cosmetic purposes. It helps to whiten the skin, eliminate freckles, pigment spots and warts. The fresh juice of the plant can also treat insect bites. This should be done 2-3 times a day.

Dandelion root in cooking

Dandelion roots have so many valuable qualities that they have found use in the culinary sphere for the preparation of various dishes. This will further enrich your body with valuable elements.

For example, the original is a salad made from the root part of the dandelion. To make it, you need to grate fresh roots and carrots. If desired, you can add greens to the dish. Dress the salad with vegetable oil and season with salt if necessary. Experts say that this dish helps to get rid of tinnitus.

You can also prepare a casserole with dandelion roots. In this case, the vegetable component should be boiled for 10-12 minutes in water with the inclusion of a small amount of salt. After that, the boiled mass is placed in a form, pour milk with whipped chicken eggs. Bake the treat in the oven for no more than 40 minutes.

Surprisingly, the roots of this inconspicuous plant can be fried as ordinary potatoes. In this case, it is necessary again to pre-cook the ingredient in salted water. After that, dip the dandelion root in whipped eggs, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and fry in butter. It is noted that such a dish tastes like regular chicken meat. Interesting, isn't it?

Another great way to use dandelion roots in cooking is to make coffee from them. It can be used instead of real black coffee. It is also made from roasted and ground roots of the grass. Before brewing, the product should be put through a blender or ground in a coffee grinder. It is worth noting that such a product can be purchased in ready-made form in specialized stores. Such portion packets are simply poured with hot water before use.

Can we give rabbits dandelion root

Dandelion roots are an excellent food for rabbits. They help to increase appetite, restore digestion, saturate the body of animals with useful substances. In addition, such raw materials can increase the amount of milk in lactating females. Rabbits eat such grass with pleasure. Give dandelion root as food to such pets no more than 3 times a day. It should be remembered that this amount of plant should not exceed 30% of the total amount of food for the day. So, for one adult animal no more than 800 g per day is enough.

It should be remembered that you should not exceed the norm, otherwise the rabbit may have cystitis. In this regard, it is recommended to combine several types of plants. For example, if you combine dandelion root with plantain and wormwood, the composition will have an antiparasitic effect, with tansy - will increase lactation and establish intestinal activity.

Such raw materials are not recommended to give rabbits immediately after extraction. It needs special preparation. To begin with, the root part of the herb should be placed in hot water and thoroughly rinsed, and then spread out in the shade. After the moisture evaporates, the roots of the grass can be fed to rabbits.

Contraindications for use

Despite its many medicinal qualities, dandelion root still has some contraindications. Patients suffering from gastritis, blocked bile ducts or stomach ulcers should be careful, because preparations based on the root part of this herb can lead to severe vomiting and diarrhea.

Unpleasant consequences can appear when using drugs in the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder. In frequent intestinal disorders, the use of folk remedies from dandelion root should be used with caution, since the preparations have a mild laxative property.

Contraindicated product for people who are allergic, as well as individual intolerance.

Diseases of the stomach, accompanied by increased acidity of gastric juice, ulcers occurring in the acute phase, are contraindications to the use of drugs based on dandelion.

It should also be noted that the plant can accumulate in itself substances that are dangerous to human health. For this reason, raw material collection should not be carried out near busy highways, industrial plants and other polluting facilities.

Photo of dandelion root