Dandelion leaves are also believed to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system due to their high potassium content (397 mg potassium/100 g) [19,23]; indeed, increased potassium intake with food (about 3500 mg/day for an adult) has been found to lower blood pressure [23].
Dandelion tea is an excellent source of potassium, a mineral and electrolyte that stimulates the heartbeat. Potassium may help the kidney filter toxins more effectively and improve blood flow.
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), dandelion has been used to treat stomach problems, appendicitis, and breast problems, such as inflammation or lack of milk flow. In Europe, dandelion was used in remedies for fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea.
When taken by mouth: Dandelion is likely safe for most people when consumed in the amounts commonly found in food. It is possibly safe when taken in larger amounts. Dandelion might cause allergic reactions, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or heartburn in some people.
Do not use dandelion if you are taking a blood thinner, such as warfarin. You should also avoid dandelion if you have gallbladder problems, have diabetes or are taking medicine to control blood sugar levels, or are taking a diuretic.
Some compounds in dandelion may decrease triglyceride and cholesterol levels, both of which are key risk factors for heart disease. In one test-tube study, dandelion leaf and root extract decreased triglyceride accumulation in fat cells ( 10 ).
Supports liver health
Dandelion tea has been used to promote liver function in holistic medicine for centuries, Kim says. Preliminary studies show this may be due to dandelion's ability to increase the flow of bile, which helps detox the liver and relieve symptoms of liver disease, Kim says.
Dandelions are safe to eat in moderation. Eating dandelions regularly or taking supplements that contain dandelion may cause health problems for people with diabetes or people who take certain medications, such as blood thinners, lithium or diuretics. Some people have allergic reactions to dandelions.
When you are discussing with your doctor whether or not dandelion tea will counteract with any medications or health issues you may experience, it is recommended you also discuss a safe dosage with your doctor. According to Keene, many people drink dandelion tea daily (with some drinking it up to four times per day).
Lowering blood pressure
There is little research to support the use of dandelion for lowering blood pressure. However, dandelion leaves are a good source of potassium. There is clinical evidence that shows that potassium can help reduce blood pressure.
Dandelion Greens
Just like superfood leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, dandelion greens contain lutein, a neuroprotective. Lutein is believed to support brain structure and neural membrane structure, reinforcing the strength and function of these membranes.
Dandelion leaf is a diuretic, meaning it promotes urination thereby helping weight loss without side effects. It also removes toxic substances from the kidneys and entire urinary system. Plus, its disinfectant properties inhibit bacterial growth, preventing future UTIs.
It Could Promote Liver Health
Naturopaths believe it means that dandelion root tea could help detoxify the liver, help with skin and eye problems, and relieve symptoms of liver disease. A 2017 study suggests that polysaccharides in dandelion may indeed be beneficial to liver function.
As shown in Table 3, dandelion leaf supplementation resulted in significant increase in the levels of HDL cholesterol. The diet with dandelion leaf also lowered the both levels of triglyceride and LDL cholesterol significantly.
The calcium readily available in Dandelion leaf tea prevents tooth decay, muscle tension and calcium deficiency. This pure leaf is a wonderful blood cleanser; by helping to purify the blood, Dandelion Leaf allows the liver to more effectively perform its function!
Dandelion tea takes about 10-15 days to help you lose the water weight. However, you must also focus on exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to see fast results.
The dandelion root increases liver function, which flushes toxins and excess water from the belly area and in turn gives you a flatter tummy. Just 2-4 cups a day does the trick.
Dandelion tea is high in vitamin A and vitamin C, both of which boost the immune system and encourages healthy cell growth. It also helps our eyesight and reduces the signs of premature aging. Dandelions are also brightened with vitamin K which helps bone health and is essential to blood clotting.
Dandelion is known to be a mild sedative, and therefore can have a very calming effect on the body and mind (3). As mentioned above, Dandelions are also loaded with important trace nutrients such as vitamin A, C, K, and magnesium – all of which can be very supportive for keeping anxiety levels at bay.
The dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is an abundant “weed” plant that also happens to be edible. In fact, nearly the entire plant can be consumed in one way or another. The only inedible part is the stem, which contains a very bitter, milky substance.
Since dandelion greens are a diuretic, they can treat high blood pressure for some people. While the diuretic effect isn't as powerful as a prescription medication, it can still be helpful when a mild diuretic is needed. Lower inflammation. Dandelion greens contain natural anti-inflammatories.
Taraxacum official (dandelion) leaf extract alleviates high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver.
Dandelion ethanol extract (DEE) significantly increased cell proliferation and estrogen response element (ERE)-driven luciferase activity. DEE significantly induced the expression of estrogen related genes such as pS2 and PR, which was inhibited by tamoxifen at 1 μmol·L(-1).
Dandelions are a superfood high enough in vitamin levels to put even kale and spinach to shame.
While dandelion is not traditionally known as a sleep-inducing food, we have found using the liver-cleansing properties of dandelion to be a valuable aid in helping sleep. A healthy liver will balance blood sugar.