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Herbal Remedies and Medicinal Cures for Diseases, Ailments & Illnesses that afflict Humans and Animals
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accept the bitter to get better

Dandelion Flower

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Mature Dandelion globe shaped flower. The wind distributes the seeds They look like helicopters in the wind.

Hundreds of species of dandelion grow in the temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Dandelion is a hardy, variable perennial that can grow to a height of nearly 12 inches. Dandelions have deeply notched, toothy, spatula-like leaves that are shiny and hairless. Dandelion stems are capped by bright yellow flowers. The grooved leaves funnel the flow of rainfall into the root. Dandelion flowers are sensitive to light, so they open with the sun in the morning and close in the evening or during gloomy weather. The dark brown roots are fleshy and brittle and are filled with a white milky substance that is bitter and slightly odorous.

**Helpful Informational Links**
Dandelion Root Products The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, are used fresh or dried in teas, capsules, or extracts. Try the Dandelion Way
Hoodia Kalahari Bushmen have traditionally eaten hoodia stems to reduce their hunger and thirst during long hunts. Alternative way to loose weight!
Immune System Supplements Astragalus root is used to support and enhance the immune system. Astragalus has also been used for heart disease. Herbal Alternative Health

Dandelion

The medicinal herb Dandelion as an alternative herbal remedy for liver diseases, kidney diseases - Dandelion greens are edible and a rich source of vitamin A.Common Names--lion's tooth, blowball

Latin Name--Taraxacum officinale Picture of Dandelion

What Dandelion Is Used For

Dandelion has been used in many traditional medical systems, including Native American and traditional Arabic medicine.
Historically, dandelion was most commonly used to treat liver diseases, kidney diseases, and spleen problems. Less commonly, dandelion was used to treat digestive problems and skin conditions.
Today, dandelion is used by some as a liver or kidney "tonic," as a diuretic, and for minor digestive problems.
Herbal remedy for liver and kidney deseases.

How Dandelion Is Used

Both the leaf and root are used for herbal remedies. The leaf helps with water weight gain. Women are especially prone to bloating due to water retention. Another benefit of dandelion is it doesn’t deplete the body of potassium like other diuretics do. The root is an excellent liver detoxifier. A clogged up liver is one of the main causes of weight gain, poor elimination, headaches, and a long list of other problems.
The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, are used fresh or dried in teas, capsules, or extracts. Dandelion leaves are used in salads or as a cooked green, and the flowers are used to make wine.

What the Science Says about Dandelion

There is no compelling scientific evidence for using dandelion as a treatment for any medical condition

Side Effects and Cautions about Dandelion

Dandelion use is generally considered safe. However, there have been rare reports of upset stomach and diarrhea, and some people are allergic to the plant. People with an inflamed or infected gallbladder, or blocked bile ducts, should avoid using dandelion. It is important to inform your health care providers about any herb or dietary supplement you are using, including dandelion. This helps to ensure safe and coordinated care.

Herbal Remedy Products with Dandelion as part of the ingredients

Natural Moves™ : Herbal remedy helps maintain regularity and support healthy regular bowel movements.
- Maintains normal bowel movements and bowel regularity
- Supports the body’s process of regular toxin and waste removal
- Addresses non-recurrent and non-persistent constipation
- Acts as an effective liver tonic
- Supports healthy peristaltic movement through the digestive tract

What Natural Moves™ says about dandelion: Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis) contains bitter principles that have a tonic effect on the liver and digestive system by supporting the flow of bile. It is also a source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, D, C, various B vitamins, iron, lecithin, silicon, potassium, magnesium, zinc and manganese. It is of benefit in maintaining healthy fluid levels in the body. Dandelion is also considered to be an excellent cleansing tonic for the liver and recent studies suggest that it is especially beneficial with regards to digestive health. (Chakurski I, Matev M, Koichev A, Angelova I, Stefanov G. "Treatment of chronic colitis with an herbal combination of Taraxacum officinale, Hipericum perforatum, Melissa officinaliss, Calendula officinalis and Foeniculum vulgare." Vutr Boles. 1981;20(6):51-4. Bulgarian. PMID: 7336706).

Dandelions by Jude C Williams, M.H.

Dandelions are tap-rooted perennial plants. They will grow almost anywhere. They are also known as weeds. Dandelions are very difficult to get rid off. Dandelions are now common in all temperate regions. The flower of the dandelion matures into a globe of fine white filaments that are usually distributed by wind, carrying away the seed-containing achenes (akenes). The mature flower of the dandelion which is in the shape of a globe is also called the "clock". While many people think of the common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) as a pesky weed, herbalists consider it a valuable herb with many culinary and medicinal uses. Dandelion is a rich source of vitamins A, B complex, C, and D, as well as minerals such as iron, potassium, and zinc. Its leaves are often used to add flavor to salads, sandwiches, and teas. The roots can be found in some coffee substitutes, and the flowers are used to make certain wines.

In traditional medicine, dandelion roots and leaves were used to treat liver problems. Native Americans also used dandelion decoctions (liquid made by boiling down the herb in water) to treat kidney disease, swelling, skin problems, heartburn, and stomach upset. Chinese medicinal practitioners traditionally used dandelion to treat digestive disorders, appendicitis, and breast problems (such as inflammation or lack of milk flow). In Europe, herbalists incorporated it into remedies for fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea.

Today, dandelion roots are mainly used as an appetite stimulant, digestive aid, and for liver and gallbladder function. Dandelion leaves are used as a diuretic to stimulate the excretion of urine.

Dandelion Tonic: In the early spring when dandelion flowers and plentiful, you can make dandelion tonic. Pour 1 pint of boiling water over an (1) ounce of dandelion flowers. Let steep covered for ten (10) minutes. Strain and sweeten. Drink several glasses a day for several days, or as many days you can before the flowers are gone.

Source: Jude C Williams, M.H.

News About Dandelions

The Health Benefits of Dandelion Root Coffee Substitute

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/health-benefits-dandelion-root-coffee-substitute-12190.html

By Karen McCarthy

Although coffee is not unanimously considered unhealthy, the caffeine in coffee is not safe for everyone. It can cause side effects, like anxiety and restlessness, and you shouldn't drink too much of it. The roots of dandelion flowers can be brewed to make a nutritious tea -- often called a coffee -- that's marketed to taste like coffee. You can typically find dandelion tea at health food stores. Check with your doctor before drinking it if you're on medication.

It's Caffeine-Free

Switching from coffee to brewed dandelion root would allow you to cut back on your caffeine intake since dandelion root is totally caffeine-free. Caffeine, widely known for counteracting sleepiness, can cause increased heart rate, insomnia, anxiety, depression, nausea, vomiting and tremors. The upper safety limit for caffeine is 300 milligrams daily, which is about three 8-ounce cups of coffee. Pregnant women and breast-feeding mothers should especially avoid too much caffeine, although it's safe in small amounts. Further, many medications interact with caffeine, but switching to dandelion root tea removes all risk by eliminating caffeine completely.

It's More Nutritious Than Coffee

In high amounts, the caffeine in coffee can cause your body to leach calcium. Dandelion root does not have this effect, and it gives much to the body without taking from it. The herb is rich in vitamins A, B, C and D and the minerals potassium, iron and zinc. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, herbalists have traditionally used dandelion root for liver and gallbladder detoxification and to support kidney health, stimulate appetite and improve digestion.

You Still Get the Antioxidant Benefits

Both coffee and dandelion root contain antioxidants, which counteract damage to the body done by free radicals. In a study on humans published in "Molecular Nutrition and Food Research" in 2011, the antioxidants in coffee reduced DNA damage. Dandelion root is rich in a flavonoid called luteolin, which was found to protect DNA from damage in test tubes in a study published in "Neoplasma" in 2001. It also contains vitamin A and caretenoids, which are known antioxidants.

Tips and Safety Precautions

You can find dandelion root in tea bags, or you can buy dandelions fresh at a health food store. Simply brew with boiling water and strain. Dandelion is safe, but potential side effects include heartburn, increased stomach acid and skin irritation. There's been no upper safety limit set for dandelion root, but it shouldn't be consumed to excess, as is the case with most herbs. Consult with your doctor before you brew dandelion if you have kidney or gallbladder problems.

Dandelion and Digestion

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/dandelion-digestion-8904.html

By Tracey Roizman (DC)

Dandelion, Terraxacum officinale, is a yellow-flowering perennial herb with long, deeply serrated leaves. Ubiquitous in rural, urban and suburban landscapes, its vigorous growth habit and feathery silver seed tufts make it a pleasant but invasive weed. Dandelion roots, leaves and flowers are edible and highly nutritious, and they offer certain benefits for digestive health.

Stomach Function

Dandelion increased gastric motility, which is the rate that food passes through the stomach, by as much as 37 percent compared to a control group that did not receive dandelion, in an animal study published in the August 2011 issue of "Neurogastroenterology and Motility." The herb worked by increasing pressure within the stomach and relaxing the muscular sphincter between the stomach and the small intestine. Researchers noted that dandelion increased gastric motility by as much as 18 percent more than a drug used for that purpose.

Pancreas Health

Dandelion helped protect against pancreatitis in an animal study published in the January 2008 "World Journal of Gastroenterology." Scientists administered daily doses of 10 milligrams of dandelion per kilogram of body weight for five days, along with a substance that induces pancreatitis. Results showed decreased weight of the pancreas and lower levels of inflammation-promoting immune molecules, indicating less inflammation and fluid accumulation, compared to a control group that did not receive dandelion. Dandelion-supplemented animals also showed higher levels of heat shock proteins, a category of protein molecules that help cells maintain healthy protein production during periods of stress.

Liver Benefits

Liver-protective benefits of dandelion leaf were demonstrated in an animal study published in the June 2012 "Journal of Medicinal Food." Dandelion decreased levels of oxidized lipids, which are those damaged by accumulated toxins and waste products, and prevented depletion of antioxidant compounds in the liver. Dandelion also prevented liver enzyme levels from rising -- a sign of stress on the liver -- in response to the over-the-counter pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medicine acetaminophen. Researchers concluded that phenolic antioxidants in dandelion account for its ability to neutralize free radicals, which are reactive molecules that damage cells, in the liver.

Dietary Uses

Dandelion is versatile and easy to incorporate into your daily diet. If you have access to a dandelion-studded lawn that has not been chemically treated, you'll have a steady supply from spring to fall. Otherwise, commercially grown dandelion leaves are available in many health food stores. Its leaves lend a pleasant, mildly bitter flavor and delicate texture to salads or stir-fry dishes. Brew roasted dandelion roots, which have a smoky flavor, as a tea or coffee substitute. You can also use roasted dandelion roots to flavor your favorite homemade ice cream recipe.

How Much Iron Is in Dandelions?

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/much-iron-dandelions-6312.html

By Sara Ipatenco

You might consider dandelions a pesky weed that pops up in your lawn and garden, but they are greens that could boost your diet. Yes, you can eat dandelions, which happen to be quite nutritious. In addition to a good dose of iron, dandelions also supply other key vitamins and minerals.

Dandelions

One cup of raw dandelion greens contains 1.7 milligrams of iron, which is 21 percent of the 8 milligrams men should aim to consume each day, and 9 percent of the 18 milligrams women should have each day. A cup of cooked dandelion greens delivers 1.89 milligrams of iron.

Iron

Iron is an essential mineral that plays several key roles in your body. The mineral promotes the healthy production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body. Iron is also important for making energy from the foods you eat. The nutrient might also boost your immunity. About 80 percent of the world's population is iron deficient, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Mild iron deficiency can cause weakness and fatigue. More severe iron deficiency leads to anemia, a disease that decreases the function of your red blood cells and diminishes your ability to transport oxygen properly.

Additional Benefits

You get a whopping 376 to 428 micrograms of vitamin K in a cup of dandelion greens, which is significantly more than the 90 to 120 micrograms that you need each day. The same cup of dandelion greens supplies about 5 times the vitamin A you need each day. Dandelion greens provide slightly more than 10 percent of the 1,000 milligrams of calcium you need daily for strong bones and teeth. A cup of raw dandelion greens provides about 19 milligrams of vitamin C, too. You'll also get between 1.5 and 2 grams of protein, 2 or 3 grams of dietary fiber and about 200 milligrams of potassium.

Tips

Dandelion greens taste best when they're harvested before they bloom. After blooming, the greens start to taste bitter. Wash the greens thoroughly before using them. Let them dry if you plan on eating them raw. Raw dandelion greens enhance the flavor of a tossed green salad. Tear the greens and add them to pasta salad for another tasty serving suggestion. Steam dandelion greens, squeeze them with a bit of lemon juice and sprinkle them with salt and pepper for a nutritious side dish that pairs well with grilled meat or fish.

What Is the Benefit of Eating Young Dandelion Leaves?

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefit-eating-young-dandelion-leaves-5457.html

By Joanne Marie

You might consider the dandelion plant a nuisance weed in your garden, one you pull out and discard to prevent it from spreading. But dandelion has a long history as part of herbal medicine in many cultures. Its leaves contain vitamins, minerals and other natural phytochemicals with biological activity and potential health benefits.

Nutrients

Dandelion leaves contain carbohydrate and protein and provide about 25 calories in one cup of leaves. They also contain healthy fiber, about 2 grams per cup, which can benefit your digestive tract by adding bulk to your stool, helping keep it soft. Dandelion leaves also provide about 20 milligrams of vitamin C per cup, more than 5,000 international units of vitamin A and 2 milligrams vitamin E, along with small amounts of several B vitamins. The leaves also contain several important minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. In addition to these beneficial nutrients, dandelion leaves contain other natural compounds with medicinal properties.

Components

Dandelion leaves are an especially rich source of beta carotene, which is both a vitamin-A precursor and a potent antioxidant. Other compounds in dandelion are flavonoids, including several luteolins that are also antioxidants. Dandelion leaves also contain several natural chemicals called terpenes that give the leaves their bitter flavor, as well as plant sterols such as beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol. Plants sterols are fatty compounds with a structure similar to cholesterol. They have natural anti-inflammatory properties and can also help reduce absorption of dietary cholesterol into your blood.

Health Effects

Dandelion leaves are used traditionally as a diuretic to increase urine production and benefit the kidneys. Modern research supports this use. For example, a clinical study published in the August 2009 issue of "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" found that human subjects who consumed an extract from fresh dandelion leaves produced significantly more urine than they had during each of the two previous days. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dandelion leaves have been used to also stimulate appetite, improve digestion and calm an upset stomach. Dandelion may also boost your immune system, support the function of your liver and help keep your blood sugar in a healthy range.

How To Use

Dandelion leaves are available from some specialty food stores or health-food stores. You might also harvest fresh dandelion leaves from plants, generally in spring or early summer, depending on your location. Add the leaves to your salad, and combine with other herbs, spices and greens to suit your taste. Alternatively, combine dandelion leaves with fruit, choosing berries or other naturally sweet fruit to offset the bitter flavor of the leaves. If fresh leaves are not available, dried dandelion is available in capsules from most health-food stores. Dandelion is generally safe and without side effects, although some people may be allergic to the leaves, and compounds in the leaves might interact with certain medications. Discuss dandelion leaves with your doctor to decide if they could be good for you.

Diet tips to keep your kidneys healthy

Source:http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/diet-tips-to-keep-your-kidneys-healthy-t0516/

By Tania Tarafdar

Follow these expert diet tips to keep your kidneys healthy and prevent kidney diseases and infections.

Kidneys are among the most vital organs of your body as they help process everything you put in your body from medications, foods to alcohol. A proper diet can revitalise your system and rid your system of harmful virus, bacteria and parasites. Cleansing the kidneys is important to prevent kidney infection and kidney stone formation. Follow this diet by Delhi-based nutritionist, Dr Kanika Girdhar to bolster your immunity and keep your kidneys healthy.

Drink warm water with lemon juice

Start your day with a cup of hot water and a dash of lemon juice. Having this concoction first thing in the morning will flush the toxins out of your body. Also, follow these tips to prevent kidney problems and diseases.

Load up on fruits and vegetables

Including more fruits and vegetables in your diet can reduce your risk of kidney infection and metabolic acidosis—a condition where your body produces too much acid. People with chronic kidney disease are more susceptible to metabolic acidosis. Fruits and vegetables can help the kidneys remove the excess acid and excrete it through urine. Bell peppers, cabbage, cauliflower and onions can be perfect to keep your kidneys healthy. Rich in antioxidants the power-packed berries can help flush out the uric acid from the kidneys, keeping them healthy. Apples are also rich in fibre and antioxidants that can improve the kidney function.

Consume parsley and dandelion leaves

One of the nature’s best diuretics, dandelion leaves help strengthen the kidneys and aid in the proper functioning of the urinary tract. Just brew dried dandelion leaves into a refreshing tea and drink it once a day. Parsley also helps flush the toxins from the kidneys. You can either add parsley leaves to your salad or brew parsley tea.

Drink healthy beverages

Drinking fresh juices can be an excellent way of including more fluids and keeping your kidneys healthy. Fluids help the digestive system to extract more water and flush out wastes from the body. However, if you suffer from a kidney disease, avoid juices made from vegetables like spinach and beets. These vegetables are rich in oxalic acid which promotes the formation of kidney stones. Instead, drink coconut water to rejuvenate your organs.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol and refined foods

Limit your intake of coffee, alcohol and refined foods as they can be tough to process, thus putting a lot of strain on your kidneys. A high-protein diet can also do more harm than good. Eating too much protein can also strain the kidneys causing them to work harder even to the point of resulting in kidney malfunction. Here are things your nephrologist (kidney specialist) wants you to know.

Limit your intake of salt

Avoid store-bought soups and deli meals laden with salt. Your body expends a lot of energy in expelling the excess salt. When you consume too much salt, your kidneys have to work even harder to process it. Hence, it is a good idea to lower your intake of salt and restricting it to five-six grammes of salt per day, which accounts to one teaspoon, is beneficial. In general, it is good to limit the amount of processed and restaurant food and eat home cooked food with clean and fresh ingredients.

Dandelion: Weed or Medicinal Powerhouse?

Source:http://www.care2.com/greenliving/dandelion-weed-or-medicinal-powerhouse.html

By: Michelle Schoffro Cook

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has a bad reputation as nothing more than a pesky week. Like most other weeds that people regard as a mere nuisance, dandelion has scientifically-proven medicinal properties and an extensive history of use.

An Arabian doctor first recorded dandelion’s curative properties in the tenth century. Dandelion was once called “piddle bed” because of its ability to increase urine flow. The French has a less tactful name for the plant as well: “pissenlit.” For those of you who don’t speak any French I’ll let you know that “en lit” means “in bed.” I’ll leave you to figure out the rest.

The Australian Journal of Medical Herbalism cites research supporting the liver-regenerating properties of dandelion, particularly in cases of jaundice, liver swelling, hepatitis, and indigestion.

In a study published in the journal Molecules, researchers found that animals given dandelion had a reduction in fatigue and a boost in immunity.

According to Ann Louise Gittleman, PhD, author of The Fat Flush Plan, dandelion root aids the liver and fat metabolism in two ways: it stimulates the liver to produce more bile to send to the gallbladder, and at the same time causes the gallbladder to contract and release its stored bile, assisting with fat metabolism.

Some health professionals advise taking dandelion root tea for people on antidepressant medications since these drugs can impede the liver’s detoxification pathways.

According to research cited in The Purification Plan, dandelion helps break down toxins before they have a chance to damage cells and may therefore be useful for cancer prevention.

In a study published in Advances in Hematology, researchers found that dandelion significantly increased both red and white blood cells, making it a possible aid in the treatment of anemia, blood purification, immune system modulation.

Due to pesticides and pollutants I don’t recommend picking dandelion root from your lawn unless you live away from traffic and are confident of the land’s organic status. You can take one to two teaspoons of dandelion root extract or supplement with 500 to 2000 mg daily in capsules for two weeks to help cleanse your liver.

Dandelion greens tend to work best on the urinary tract while the root works on the liver. If you choose to incorporate dandelion greens into your diet, check out my article 10 Sensation Spring Superfoods.

If you plan to use the root to give your liver a boost, a typical dose is 500 to 2000 mg of dandelion root in capsule form. You can also make a decoction (a type of herbal medicinal tea) by using two teaspoons of powdered dandelion root per cup of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 45 minutes. Make a large enough batch that it won’t just evaporate during the cooking time. Drink one cup three times daily. A third option is to take one teaspoon of alcohol-based tincture, three times daily. Be sure to consult with a naturally-minded doctor if you suffer from any health conditions or if you are taking prescription drugs as some drugs can interfere with herbal medicines.

We spend billions of dollars searching for the one miracle pill that will cure what ails us while Mother Nature has provided medicine right beneath our noses. If we’d only stop killing the “weeds” we contend with on our lawns and instead cultivate these powerful healing herbs we’d be much healthier (that is, unless you live in a high traffic area or spray your lawn with toxic pesticides).

6 Autumn Superfoods that Support Super Health All Season

Source:http://www.care2.com/greenliving/6-autumn-superfoods-that-support-super-health-all-season.html

By Michelle Schoffro Cook

I love fall fairs and farmer’s markets this time of year. After all, it’s wonderful to enjoy superfoods that are as delicious as they are health-promoting. While there are many autumn superfoods worthy of inclusion in your diet, here are some of my favorites.

Apples—Research in the online medical journal BMJ put the old adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” to the test—at least where heart disease and stroke are concerned. Scientists at the University of Oxford, England compared the effects of eating one apple to taking a typical daily dose of statin drugs, which are primarily used to lower cholesterol levels. Then they assessed the mortality rates from heart disease and stroke and found that eating an apple a day had an equivalent reduction in mortality to the statin drugs, without the potential side-effects. What’s more is that apples contain compounds called polyphenols which act as natural sunscreen to shield apples from the sun’s UV-B rays. When we eat apples regularly, these polyphenols appear to help to protect our skin against sun damage.

Dandelion Root—Okay, maybe you didn’t realize that you could dig up this delicious and highly medicinal root any time of the year, but especially in the fall when the nutrients and medicinal compounds are at their height. Dandelion is showing tremendous promise as a potential natural cancer remedy. A study by the University of Windsor, Ontario, Canada and published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that an extract of dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) showed effectiveness on skin cancer. The researchers found that after 48 hours of exposure to the dandelion extract, melanoma skin cancer cells began to die off. Even cells that were resistant to chemotherapy responded to dandelion root extract. Obviously, more research is necessary but considering how delicious roasted dandelion root tastes you may want to add it to your diet. Due to pesticides and pollutants I don’t recommend picking dandelion root from your lawn unless you live away from traffic and are confident of the land’s organic status.

One of the most delicious ways of enjoying dandelion root is to wash it, chop it coarsely, lay on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for one to two hours depending on whether you want a “light” or “dark” roast (similar to coffee) then allow to cool, grind and add a tablespoon to your smoothies. My favorite dandelion smoothie involves 2 cups almond milk, 2 tablespoons of roasted dandelion root (ground), 1 fresh date (pitted) and ½ cup of raw cashews (unsalted). Blend with some ice. Serve immediately.

Eggplant—Exciting research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that a compound in the skin of eggplant that gives it its beautiful dark purple color, not only acts as a potent antioxidant to protect cells and tissues from damage, it also shows promise in the treatment of cancer. The compound, known as nasunin, appears to block angiogenesis—a process by which cancer cells and tumors divert or create new blood vessels that are used to feed the cancer or cause it to spread. While the research into nasunin’s ability to block angiogenesis is still in its infancy, it is exciting to know that every time we eat a delicious meal made from eggplant, we may be helping to prevent cancer.

Pumpkin—Pumpkin is a nutritional powerhouse. Not only is it high in beta carotene—the nutrient that gives pumpkin its signature orange color, it is also high in fiber. One cup of cooked pumpkin has three grams of fiber, which is beneficial to bowel health. Pumpkin also contains lutein and zeaxanthin—two other types of carotenes that have well-established links to the prevention of prostate cancer.

Pumpkin Seeds—Research in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that pumpkin seed oil helped reduce excessive levels of testosterone in males. Excessively high levels of testosterone are implicated in benign prostatic hyperplasia—a condition of abnormal prostate cell growth that can be a precursor to prostate cancer. Pumpkin seeds are high in Omega 3 fatty acids that not only protect the prostate but are well-established to reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Squash—Like pumpkins, squash is high in beta carotene and other carotenoids. Squashes also contain a compound known as homogalacturonan, which has been found to help regulate insulin and blood sugars, as well as have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, don’t throw out the seeds from squash. Just like pumpkin seeds, squash seeds are highly nutritious and contain Omega 3 fatty acids. Roast the seeds at 170 for about 10-15 minutes until the seeds are just lightly browned. Add a dash of sea salt and enjoy this delicious autumn snack.

Top 7 Health Benefits Of Dandelion Root

Source:http://www.boldsky.com/health/wellness/2016/top-seven-health-benefits-of-dandelion-root-106727.html

By: Somya Ojha

Many people might not be aware that dandelion roots have several health benefits. Few benefits are discussed here and this has been proved through several studies as well.

Since centuries, dandelion root has been used worldwide for its healing and therapeutic abilities. Read on to discover the amazing ways in which dandelion root can affect your health and wellness.

Most people mistake it to be a weed, but trust us, when it comes to dandelion root, there is more than what meets the eye. Several studies have found that dandelion root is replete with powerful compounds that can effectively ward off several health issues.

Mostly available in a tea form, this folk medicine has garnered a great deal of attention in the last few years for its health benefits, and one of them being its ability to prevent cancer.

Though there is no conclusive evidence regarding the same, researchers have been able to establish a strong link between dandelion root and cancerous cells.

So, today at Boldsky, we have assembled a list of ways in which dandelion root can benefit an individual's health. From treating infection to aiding better digestion, the root of dandelion flower can prove to be highly beneficial.

Take a look at the top health benefits of dandelion root here.

Note: If you're suffering from a health condition, then we highly recommend you to consult your dietician before integrating anything new in your diet.

1. Aids Better Digestion Dandelion root is packed with laxatives that play an instrumental role in promoting better digestion. Consuming it on a regular basis can keep digestion-related problems at bay. Just brew yourself a cup of fresh dandelion root tea to aid better digestion.

2. Detoxifies The Liver Since ages, dandelion root is also referred to as a liver tonic. Mainly because the antioxidants present in it can effectively clear the accumulated toxins and impurities from your liver. So, for a natural detoxification, just include dandelion root in your diet.

3. Lowers High Blood Pressure For people suffering from high blood pressure, dandelion root is known to be particularly effective in naturally bringing down the level of blood pressure. It is loaded with the essential compounds like potassium that can calm down your blood pressure level.

4. Regulates Blood Sugar Another health benefit of dandelion root is that it can work like a charm for the people who suffer from diabetes. It acts as a potent remedy in regulating the insulin level, effectively keeps the level of blood sugar in control and prevents it from shooting off the roof.

5. Can Prevent Cancer Certain compounds present in dandelion root can play a key role in keeping a life-threatening disease like cancer at bay. Though the scientific evidence is still inconclusive, there is no denying the fact that there is a strong link between cancer and dandelion root.

6. Prevents Urinary Tract Infections The antibacterial abilities of dandelion root make it an ideal remedy for preventing unpleasant infections like urinary tract infections. Drink it in a tea form or add it to your food, either ways it can effectively keep infection-causing bacteria at bay.

7. Boosts Immune Function Another incredible way in which dandelion root can benefit your health is by strengthening your immune system. The compounds present in it are known to boost up immunity and keep you safe from various infections.

Lifestyle: Health benefits of dandelion

Source:http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Lifestyle-Health-benefits-of-dandelion-478028

(Ghana Web)

Most times, we hear people talk abut the benefits of dandelion roots and leaves but we don't pay heed to it. Some of us have seen it growing in ours or our neighbor's garden, but we see it as just another weed despite the talks about it benefits to our health.

But I can tell you as a fact that the plant can help you live 5 years longer if you will pay more attention to the talks and start using it, as many people who use it have testified to its usefulness.

Dandelion is rich in Vitamin B, organic sodium, iron, calcium Vitamin A and C, fiber, trace minerals, organic sodium and vitamin D too, which helps fight many sicknesses and skin diseases. You can add it to your smoothie, your salad or even make tea with it, whenever you want to use it.

So before you go cutting away the ones in your garden, here are 7 health benefits of dandelion leaves and roots you should know.

1. Liver disorders Dandelion helps the liver in many ways. It removes toxins, aids in the proper flow of piles, re-establish hydration and promotes digestion. The vitamin C and Luteolin in dandelions are said to protect the liver from aging.

2. Kidney problems Dandelion is said to be diuretic in nature thereby, helps clear out excess water, waste, salt and other toxic substances from the liver by increasing urine production and helps the urinary system too. The diuretic in dandelion is said to be so high that in France, the flowers is called "Pissenlit", which simply means "urinate in bed".

3. Cancer Dandelion is said to have proven study after study to having the ability to combat cancer when most medicines have shown no result. Because the leaves are high in antioxidants (Vitamin C and Luteolin), it reduces the main cancer-causing agents, thereby reducing the risk of cancer. The Luteolin is said to poison the essential components of the cancer cells, making them ineffective and unable to reproduce.

4. Skin problems The dandelion milk is or the dandelion sap is highly alkaline and is said to have fungicidal, germicidal and insecticidal properties which are very effective in treating skin problems such as ringworm, itchy rash, eczema, and other skin infections, and it causes no side effects.

5. Diabetes Because of the diuretic nature of dandelion, it increases the urination in diabetic patients thereby removing the excess sugar from their body. Dandelion juice also lowers their sugar level since it is a bit bitter and dandelion extracts also help prevent dangerous spikes and plunges for diabetic patients because of its production of insulin.

6. <High blood pressure Because urination is an effective way to reduce blood pressure, the dandelion is a perfect solution due to its diuretic nature which increases urination. The fiber and potassium in dandelion also help regulate blood pressure.

7. Anaemia The vitamin B, iron and protein content in dandelions are said to be essentials for the formation of red blood cells and other blood components which, therefore, help the condition of people with anemia. So we hope this will be enough reason for you to make use of dandelion so that you can stay healthy and live longer. If you have other benefits, feel free to share.

Dandelions (Root, Leaves, and All) Deserve the Superfood Spotlight

Source:http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/healthy-drinks/dandelions-root-leaves-and-all-deserve-superfood-spotlight

By Carly Graf

After years of living in the shadows of other lauded superfoods (kale, anyone?), dandelions are finally getting some much-deserved attention. The little green is popping up on menus across the country and in all kinds of dishes—smoothies, salads, broth-based soups, and even as garnishes for savory dishes like pasta and risotto. While people are crazy about the flavor (slightly bitter), they're even crazier about the nutritional benefits packed into every part of this plant. A low-cal flavor boost chock full of minerals, vitamins, and more—what's not to love? (Other powerhouses: 8 "Ugly" Nutrient-Packed Fruits and Vegetables.)

The Facts

We're unprepared to label dandelion as a miracle weight loss trick or a one-step solution to better health, as some people claim it is (although we will take a stand on The Best Farmers' Market Foods for Weight Loss). That said, it's worth giving what's normally seen as nothing more than a pesky garden intruder a second look.

Dandelions are, in fact, tiny nutritional powerhouses. The flowers are loaded with vitamins A, B, C, and D; minerals including potassium, iron, and zinc; and phytonutrients like beta-carotene."Iron helps transport oxygen throughout the body while zinc is a powerful antixoidant that assists with maintaining regular hormone levels," says Dana Kofsky, a licensed nutritionist and corporate wellness consultant based in Los Angeles. "Potassium helps reduce blood pressure and minimize the risk of strokes," she adds.

What’s more, you can eat every single part of the dandelion—roots and all. The petals themselves boast an impressive assortment of antioxidants helpful in preventing diseases, while the minerals in the leaves and roots help the body flush out toxins and impurities, research shows. Meanwhile, dandelion leaves have more calcium than most varieties of leafy greens, says Kofsky. The roots—often used in teas and, more recently, herbal coffees—act as an appetite stimulant and help to alleviate minor digestive problems such as constipation, says Steven Ehrlich, founder and medical director of Solutions Acupuncture and Naturopathic Medicine in Phoenix, AZ.

And it’s not just the laundry list of nutrients that gives dandelions their powerful punch. The ability to detoxify stems from the fiber-packed leaves. Long-term, fiber fights against diabetes and can help lower cholesterol, while short-term, it slows down digestion, helping you stay full longer, explains Kofsky. In fact, dandelion roots have been used to detoxify the liver, gallbladder, and kidneys for centuries, says Ehrlich. (Should You Detox With Dandelion Root Tea?)

While there’s still a need for more scientific exploration into some of the more extreme claims about this flower, the once under-the-radar ingredient is now enjoying the superfood spotlight in a big way.

The Buzz 

One of the greatest things about dandelion as an ingredient is its versatility. Chefs are getting creative with how they utilize every part of the flower. We've seen the leaves raw in a salad or blended into a spread; the roots roasted as part of an herbal coffee or tea; and the petals placed as a beautiful, edible garnish for any dish. In many ways, the dandelion is a supercharged sprout—it has a slightly more bitter and earthier taste than your average alfalfa sprout, but it still gives you a vibrant pop of green in just about any dish, says Candice Kumai, professional chef and author of Clean Green Eats.

If you're looking to drink your dandelion rather than eat it, turn towards dandelion coffees and teas. A new favorite in trendy coffee shops, including Amara in Los Angeles and Life Alive in Cambridge, MA, dandelion herbal coffees are, in many ways, very similar to matcha, thanks to the sustained energy levels and supposedly more gradual “buzz” that results from drinking it. (Here, 4 Healthy Caffeine Fixes—No Coffee or Soda Required.)

To incorporate dandelion root beverages into your diet, you can try powdered coffee blends or tea bags, which you can pick up at local health food stores or Whole Foods. The coffee blends, such as Dandy Blend, look and taste strikingly similar to coffee, except that they contain no caffeine and, instead of coffee grounds, are comprised of ingredients such as roasted barley rye, sugar beet, and chicory root in addition to the dandelion. Give this a shot if you're looking for a nutrient-packed coffee alternative. Tea brands, including Yogi Tea's DeTox and Traditional Medicinal's Roasted Dandelion Root Tea, have started to incorporate dandelion into their beverage blends as well.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking to add a new good-for-you green to your dishes, dandelions offer a nutritional one-two punch coupled with a major flavor boost. "Dandelion greens are seriously in a league of their own," says Kumai. Pair the greens and flowers—which have an almost broccoli rabe-like bitterness to them—with something sweet. Blend them with a fruit in a smoothie or as a sweet dressing in a dandelion greens salad, recommends Kumai. If you want to add a flavor to an ordinary sauté of greens, throw some dandelions in with extra virgin olive oil and garlic; pair all of that with quinoa for a seriously nutritious entree.

Next time you're wandering through the produce aisle looking for inspiration, don't hesitate at the dandelion. After all, remember when you thought pea sprouts were weird?

Let dandelions have their day in the sun

Source:https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/may/01/let-dandelions-have-their-day-in-the-sun

By James Wong

Compared to spinach, dandelions are easier to grow and much richer in vitamins – plus they pack a more flavourful punch

I am an obsessive collector of vegetable gardening books. I have been since I was eight years old. Yet there is something I find curious about all of them. Almost without fail, page after page is dedicated to the cultivation of spinach, while a few chapters later similar space is dedicated to the eradication of dandelions. As a botanist I can’t help but think: what if they were the other way round? What makes one plant a weed and another a prized edible worth so much time and effort?

Despite being cast as a horticultural villain, dandelions are actually one of the oldest crops, with fresh, tender leaves. They are a popular salad green, from France and Italy to China and India. With good reason, too, as the vegetal bitterness is virtually identical to the flavour of other leafy crops, like chicory (to which it is related). Nutritionally it doesn’t fare badly either, having twice the vitamin A of spinach per serving (more than your daily dose in each handful) and more than double the vitamin C, not to mention a huge helping of more than five times your recommended daily intake of vitamin K.

Spinach is not only a runner-up in the vitamin stakes, it also is comparatively bland, without any of the dandelion’s gutsy radicchio-meets-rocket flavour.

Anyone who has tried it will also tell you that spinach is not the easiest crop to grow, with its tendency to bolt into flower at the slightest hint of being kept too dry or too hot. Dandelions, by contrast, literally plant themselves. They are also super high-yielding, and generate big bunches of pretty yellow flowers that are great for pollinators at the time of year when they need them most.

I grow mine by simply lifting dandelions that pop up on their own in my beds and borders (you don’t have to be to gentle about this) and planting them spaced about 30cm apart in a bed of rich soil. If they are in shadier spots, with a weekly douse of water, the leaves will grow far larger and lusher and have a milder flavour. Some growers will even cover plants in large buckets or terracotta pots for a few weeks in the early spring. In this dark environment the new growth will emerge primrose-yellow and elongated. This process, known as blanching, makes for milder, more tender leaves – exactly as is done for conventional chicory.

I love to eat them just as you would any salad green, or briefly sautéed in garlic, lemon and olive oil. They make an amazing salad tossed in the hot fat from crispy fried lardons along with a handful of croutons and a tablespoon of chopped chives. For years the idea of eating dandelions has come with associations of eccentricity, but strip the prejudices aside and all you are left with is a healthy, delicious chicory that requires next to no work to grow.

The Health Benefits of Eating Dandelion Greens

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/health-benefits-eating-dandelion-greens-4433.html

By Tracey Roizman, DC

Both ubiquitous and reviled by homeowners desirous of a perfectly manicured lawn, the common dandelion is edible and offers a wealth of nutritional and medicinal benefits. Fresh dandelion greens have a mild, pleasant, slightly bitter flavor and are available at many health food stores. If you eschew chemical fertilizers and other lawn treatments you might consider controlling your dandelions by harvesting them.

Nutritional Content

Dandelion greens compare favorably in nutritional content to other commonly consumed green vegetables, providing four times as much calcium, 1.5 times as much vitamin A and 7.5 times as much vitamin K as broccoli. This leafy green vegetable also contains twice as much iron and three times as much riboflavin as spinach, and, while spinach provides no vitamin E or carotenoids, dandelion greens boast 17 percent of the daily adult dose of vitamin E and 13,610 international units, or IUs, of lutein and zeaxanthin per 3.5-ounce serving. However, dandelion greens are lower in vitamin C and folate than either spinach or broccoli.

Diuretic

Diuretic properties of dandelion greens make them useful for promoting urine production and reducing symptoms of some liver, gallbladder and kidney conditions. A study published in the August 2009 issue of the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" found that dandelion greens caused significant increase in urine output in the 5-hour periods after consumption after two doses spaced 24 hours apart. However, a third dose 24 hours after the second did not show an increase in urine production among study participants. Researchers concluded that dandelion greens may offer benefits as a diuretic. Immunity

Dandelion greens inhibit interleukins and other immune molecules that trigger inflammation. Dandelion may also control inflammation by suppressing COX-2 enzymes, the molecules that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs target, according to Leah Hechtman, author of the book "Clinical Naturopathic Medicine." A tissue culture study published in the August 2010 issue of the "Journal of Medicinal Food" found that dandelion greens extract significantly suppressed nitric oxide, prostaglandins and cytokines, all pro-inflammatory molecules.

Cancer

Breast and prostate cancers may respond well to treatment with dandelion greens, according to Mark A. Goldstein, co-author of the book "Healthy Herbs." Researchers of a study published in the May 2008 issue of the "International Journal of Oncology" found that dandelion leaf extract, but not extracts of dandelion flower or root, decreased growth in tissue cultures of breast cancer cells. Dandelion leaf extract also blocked the spread of prostate cancer in the study. Researchers concluded that dandelion leaf extract may offer potential benefits as anti-cancer agents.

Dandelions: nuisance or nature’s nutritious gem?

Source:http://www.thenorthernlight.com/2016/04/06/dandelions-nuisance-or-natures-nutritious-gem/

By Jess Scott Wright (RDN)

In my experience, spring is the best antidote for the wet, winter blues, and it’s here! Walk outside and you can see, smell and hear nature rejoicing. Unfortunately, not everything that reemerges with spring is welcomed with open arms – mosquitoes, garden pests, blackberry vines and weeds can undermine the stress-busting properties of gardening and landscaping.

Springtime encourages outdoor activities such as gardening, which many research studies have found to reduce stress and promote positive mental health. The American Horticulture Therapy Association promotes an entire handbook dedicated to the powerful effects of gardening called “The Benefits of Gardening and Food Growing for Health and Well-Being,” which is available for free online via Google Scholar and is full of scientific information in support of this notion.

Depending on your definition of what constitutes a weed, the art of weed pulling may extend health benefits far beyond our mental wellbeing. Take dandelions for example:

Dandelions may look like weeds and their stubborn root might be really challenging to dig out of the ground, but they are truly healing gifts from nature. Not only are they easily identifiable, the dandelion is totally edible from root to flower, and it has a delicious versatility in the culinary world.

Just like spinach or kale, dandelion greens are tasty additions to soups or salads. Young greens have the best flavor for eating raw, or lightly sautéed in olive oil and sprinkled with salt and pepper, but for more mature greens, you may want to tame the potentially acrid taste by blanching them for 20 to 30 seconds in boiling water and shocking them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Store dandelion greens in containers/storage drawers that control moisture.

Dandelion greens are vitamin A and K powerhouses. In fact, just one cup provides more than 500 percent of the daily value for Vitamin K according to nutritiondata.self.com, so those taking anticoagulants like warfarin or Coumadin may want to talk to their healthcare provider before causing major shifts in their normal vitamin K intake with dandelion greens.

Dr. Siyaram Pandey, a biochemist at the University of Windsor in Ontario has been studying the effects of dandelion root extract on cancer. Thanks to his published findings and overwhelming support, Dr. Pandey acquired approval to study the possible cancer-fighting effects of dandelion extract, making it the first natural extract to receive approval for a clinical human cancer trial in Canada from Health Canada, the federal department responsible for governing medicine and healthcare in Canada.

In a TEDx talk about his research, Dr. Pandey said, “We dug out the dandelion root and just ground it in a home blender with water, made the extract, filtered it, tried to put it in the same Petri dishes where we grow the leukemia cells, and frankly speaking I was not expecting any activity because it was so diluted.” To his surprise, cancer cells started dying while healthy cells remained unharmed.

For centuries dandelion has been regarded for its potent healing and medicinal properties. As sources of calcium, antioxidants such as vitamin C and many minerals such as zinc, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus, dandelion leaves have traditionally been dried and made into teas and tinctures that are said to improve inflammation, promote healthy function for the liver, kidney and gallbladder and resolve symptoms associated with diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure.

Lately, I’ve been rendered breathless by the beauty of the exploding cherry blossoms. The colorful tulips sneakily emerge like flecks of joyous laughter through the landscapes and of course there are dandelions, which I assume are received with mixed emotions as they bring a scattered, chaotic, and persistent interruption to any hopes of having a flawless lawn like the one down the street so green that my husband stares enviously when he passes. I remind him that our grass, with all its patches and varietals, has character. This year I am going to embrace the dandelions, because when the next dreary, gray, wet winter arrives, I will miss them. But for now, I will eat them.

Please keep in mind that while eating dandelions is completely safe, when it comes to foraging, you must be certain that what you think you are eating is precisely that. Avoid wild dandelions along roadsides or in other areas subject to pollution or heavy pesticide use.

Many wild weeds are poisonous and easily mistaken by foragers as a safe edible plant. If you ever have an inkling of doubt, take a sample of your plant to a professional and have them confirm whether it is safe to eat or not. The Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board has helpful information in identifying poisonous weeds and how to handle them.

What Are the Benefits of Dandelion Root?

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-dandelion-root-7080.html

By Joanne Marie (Demand Media)

To some, the common dandelion is just a bothersome weed. However, dandelion root has been used in traditional herbal medicine for hundreds of years. After examining the properties of dandelion in detail, modern science suggests that its root might have significant benefits that can keep you healthy and disease-free.

Dandelion

The dandelion plant (Taraxacum officinale) is a hardy perennial that grows wild in temperate regions worldwide. It has a thick, long taproot that has been used for centuries as a medicinal aid. Native Americans boiled the dandelion plant and used it to treat kidney disease, skin disorders and upset stomach. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is commonly recommended for digestive problems and to improve milk production in breast-feeding women, and European herbalists use dandelion for fever, diarrhea and diabetes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Dandelion contains several biologically active constituents that make it potentially beneficial for your health. Kidney Effects

Clinical research suggests that dandelion is an effective diuretic that increases urine output by the kidneys. In a study published in the "Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine" in 2009, human subjects consumed dandelion extract for one day while their urine production was monitored every few hours. Researchers found that dandelion caused a significant increase in urine output compared to the amount measured on the previous two days. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, increasing urine production dandelion could help rid your body of excess fluid, reduce high blood pressure and improve liver problems.

Anti-Cancer Activity

Some laboratory research also suggests that compounds in dandelion root might have anti-cancer properties. For example, in a study published in "Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin" of the compound lupeol from dandelion root, researchers found that the compound blocked growth of cultured melanoma cells and caused them to develop into non-cancerous, normal cells. Another study published in the same journal in 2002 found similar anti-cancer effects of taraxinic acid, another dandelion root compound, on cultured leukemia cells. While these are promising results from laboratory research, they need confirmation in large clinical trials with human subjects.

How To Use

Dandelion root is available from health-food stores in powdered form, or as an extract in capsules or as liquid. A typical dose is 2 to 8 grams of dried root three times daily, or 250 milligrams of an extract, three to four times daily. Although generally considered quite safe, do not take dandelion if you have gall bladder disease or gallstones. It may also cause an allergic reaction or mild gastrointestinal problems in some people. Dandelion root may interact with certain medications, including diuretics, diabetes medicines or lithium. Discuss its use with your doctor to decide if dandelion might be helpful for your situation.

Reap the Benefits of Dandelion Greens

Source:http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/benefits-of-dandelion-greens-zmaz08amzmcc.aspx

By Roger Doiron

For many, harvesting wild dandelion greens is a beloved springtime ritual. Learn how to use dandelions and enjoy the health benefits of dandelion greens in a variety of ways.

I’m going wild again, just like I did last year. My suburban wildness — if such a thing is possible — centers on a simple spring ritual that starts in mid-April and continues through mid-May: harvesting dandelion greens at their young and tender best.

For my neighbors who watch the spectacle, I suspect it’s a curiosity the likes of which most folks don’t see anymore: a grown man crawling around on the ground on his hands and knees with a sharp knife in one hand and a colander in the other. Although wild dandelion greens can be found throughout my yard, I’ve discovered that the best ones grow in the wildest of places, safe from the punishing foot traffic of my three boys and the whir of the lawn mower blade.

The wildest spot in my yard is behind our house under the protective canopy of 50-foot pines. The trees were planted years ago as a natural border between my yard and our neighbor’s. As they’ve grown, they’ve created a fringe forest ecosystem. The soil there is particularly rich due to the accumulation and decomposition of pine needles and windswept autumn leaves. Just enough sunlight passes through for dandelions and other opportunistic plants to thrive.

Although these wild dandelion greens are only 30 yards from my back door, my path to discovering them was not so direct. In fact, it veered off course by about 3,000 miles to the east. I learned the pleasures of eating dandelion salads in Europe from my Belgian mother-in-law, known as “Mami” by my sons. Mami grew up on a small family farm in the foothills of the Ardennes mountain range. Although the nearby battles of World War II were over by the time she was born, the wartime thrift mentality held fast in Europe throughout her childhood. The thinking was that if the land was prepared to offer up free food in the form of salad greens, mushrooms and berries, one would be silly to refuse.

Embraced throughout human history and across cultures and cuisines, the dandelion has been cast as public enemy No. 1 in postwar, suburban America. An estimated 80 million pounds of pesticides are used each year on home lawns to eradicate them. Yet each year, the scrappy plant returns, thumbing its sunny yellow nose.

For me, letting my dandelions grow wild and pesticide-free is not just about frugality and ecology, but also gastronomy. Food writers often say that the best foods are those with a sense of time and place. I love these bitter greens as much as I do because I know the ground they come from and appreciate that they only come once a year. They also serve as a useful reminder that good foods are closer than we may think, even as close as our own back yard.

Dandelion Gastronomy

All parts of the dandelion are edible and have medicinal and culinary uses. It has long been used as a liver tonic and diuretic. In addition, the roots contain inulin and levulin, starchlike substances that may help balance blood sugar, as well as bitter taraxacin, which stimulates digestion. Dandelion roots can be harvested during any frost-free period of the year and eaten raw, steamed, or even dried, roasted and ground into a coffee substitute. The flowers are best known for their use in dandelion wine, but they also can be added to a salad, made into jellies or dipped in batter to make dandelion fritters. The leaves are rich in potassium, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. Dandelion greens can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled, sautéed or braised. For use in salads, greens should be harvested from new plants while still small and tender, before the first flower emerges. Larger greens tend to be tougher and more bitter, and better suited for cooking.

Grow Your Own

While dandelions may well be nature’s most successful self-seeding plant, they don’t necessarily grow where you want them. Dandelion lovers can take the guesswork out of it by planting their own.

‘Clio’ is an Italian dandelion that produces high yields of upright greens that are easy to harvest (available from Johnny’s Selected Seeds). ‘Ameliore’ is a cultivated French strain of the common dandelion with broader leaves and a milder flavor than its outlaw cousin (available from The Cook’s Garden). Milano Chicory Melange is a salad mix that includes dandelion-like ‘Catalogna’ seeds as part of a colorful mix of red and green chicories (available from John Scheepers Kitchen Garden Seeds).

Dandelion Recipes to Try

Dandelion Salad Recipe with Fresh Goat Cheese and Apples

Dandelion Mushroom Calzone Recipe

Wilted Dandelion Greens Salad Recipe

Simple Sautéed Dandelion Greens Recipe

Should You Detox With Dandelion Root Tea?

Source:http://www.shape.com/blogs/shape-your-life/should-you-detox-dandelion-root-tea

(POPSUGAR Fitness)

If you're feeling bloated and lethargic, you may have heard of drinking dandelion root tea to cure that puffy, overly full feeling. But is imbibing a steaming mug of a bitter-tasting common weed really the key to feeling your best?

Many people use dandelion root to detoxify, relieve constipation, soothe an upset stomach, and help shed water weight, among many other health remedies. In fact, tea made from the dandelion's root or leaves has been used in traditional Chinese and Native American medicine for centuries; now, even Dr. Oz has jumped on board, recommending dandelion tea as part of his 48-hour cleanse to help your liver release toxins while you sleep.

There's even some limited science to back up those ancient claims. Studies have shown that dandelion does contain diuretic and liver-detoxifying properties, and promising new research is looking into whether dandelion root has cancer-killing properties as well. A small lab study in mice even found that hot water dandelion root extract reduced alcohol-related liver damage in mice. However, scientific research has not been able to prove all the claims about dandelion root and health, and more research is needed.

Even so, medical experts regard dandelion use as generally safe—rare side effects include upset stomach and diarrhea—making dandelion root tea a good option if you're looking for ways to detox and debloat. Be sure to note the warnings about who shouldn't ingest dandelion root, however, and find a reputable, high-quality brand you trust (we like the Roasted Dandelion Root Tea from Traditional Medicinals). Talk to your doctor if you are taking any medication as well, since the weed can interact with some medications, such as lithium, certain antibiotics, and drugs that are broken down by your liver. And note that dandelion tea can have laxative effects, so try it out at night if you've never had it before.

Dandelion root extract approved for clinical trials of cancer-fighting benefits

Source:http://windsor.ctvnews.ca/dandelion-root-extract-approved-for-clinical-trials-of-cancer-fighting-benefits-1.2783699

(CTV Windsor)

Encouraging news for University of Windsor cancer researchers.

Health Canada has given scientists the go-ahead to begin a clinical trial of the cancer-fighting benefits of dandelion root extract.

It has shown promising hope in killing bad cells, while leaving the healthy ones alone.

A request for a human trial was submitted in 2012 and is only now getting the green-light.

The trial is now open for oncologist referrals, with room for 30 patients, who have exhausted all other cancer treatments

Dandelion as a cancer fighting ally?

Source:https://www.the-newshub.com/health-and-fitness/dandelion-as-a-cancer-fighting-ally

By Angelica Werts

Dandelions, weeds that have over-taken many a gardener’s yard, are being heralded as new natural treatments for cancer.

Research in 2008 showed that dandelion leaf hindered the growth of breast cancer in one case and completely halted the expansion of prostate cancer in another. Although the dandelion is noted to have no effect on the cancer itself, it has the ability to keep it from branching out into other parts of the body. Dandelion root shows great promise as it could serve as a welcome substitute to the often toxic chemotherapy that can eliminate malicious cells as well as the healthy ones.

Dandelion’s beneficial properties are due to the antioxidants it contains which can fend against free-radicals, or substances that harm the DNA structure based on a study from 2003. Aside from being an up and coming suppressant for cancer cells, there is evidence to support that it can lower blood sugar and keep cholesterol in sync for those suffering with diabetes.

Dandelion is a testament to the natural cures and remedies being studied today and could make a great companion-treatment to chemotherapy. Taking dandelion supplements or eating it fresh regularly can help prevent cancer along with a healthy diet and exercise.

Dandelion has been scientifically proven to dispose of bacteria and soothe inflammation, but it is not advised for patients to self-medicate with it as research has not fully explored its potential and side effects. People wanting to use dandelion for an ailment should discuss it with their doctor first.

Dandelion Root: The Ingredient Your Smoothie is Missing

Source:http://www.care2.com/greenliving/dandelion-root-is-the-ingredient-your-smoothie-is-missing.html

By Michelle Schoffro Cook

Now that smoothies are all the rage, I am regularly asked what type of smoothies I drink. I always tell people dandelion smoothies are my all-time favorite. It’s no joke: they’re not just great from a health perspective but they are absolutely delicious too.

By now, I’m used to peoples’ eyes bugging whenever dandelion smoothies are the topic of conversation, but I always ask people to give roasted dandelion root smoothies a chance.

First, let me share that dandelion has been undergoing extensive research, especially at Canada’s leading medical university for its potent anti-cancer properties (published in the journal Molecules). It has even been effective against chemotherapy-resistant cancers! These types of cancers don’t respond to chemotherapy. Both dandelion root and greens are serious liver boosters as well. Research in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that dandelion helps to protect the liver against damage from other drugs, including painkillers like acetaminophen.

And that’s just the beginning of dandelion’s therapeutic properties. It is high in the essential but mostly overlooked mineral boron that is necessary for bone-building, it purifies the blood and is even a powerful natural antibiotic. But even if you’re just interested in a delicious smoothie, adding roasted and ground dandelion root is tastes similar to an iced and blended coffee. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

2 cups almond milk

½ cup raw, unsalted cashews

1 teaspoon honey or a dash of stevia (optional, I make mine unsweetened)

2 tablespoons ground, roasted dandelion roots

6 ice cubes

Add the almond milk, cashews, honey or stevia, and dandelion root to a blender. Blend until smooth. Add the ice cubes and blend again. Serve immediately.

How to Roast Dandelion Roots

Dandelion is best picked away from high-traffic areas or areas that have been sprayed with pesticides. Ideally, pick dandelion root after a rainfall since the roots seem to come out easier.

Clean the roots and cut off the tops (you can save the young greens as an addition to salads or sautéed in a little olive oil and minced garlic and tossed with some fresh lemon juice and sea salt). Place on a baking sheet in a 200 degree Fahrenheit oven and roast for 1-1/2 to 3 hours, depending on the root size and desired level of roast.

Dandelion is similar to coffee with light and dark roast options. Remove from the oven and let cool. Grind to a fine powder in a coffee or spice grinder. You can also use a high powered blender with a dry ingredients canister. Store the powder in an airtight jar and use as desired. Alternatively, if it is too much work or you don’t have access to good quality dandelions, you can also purchase pre-roasted and ground dandelion roots in packages at many health food stores and online.

Paul Hetzler: Consider The Dandelion

Source:http://www.adirondackalmanack.com/2016/04/paul-hetzler-consider-dandelion.html

By Paul Hetzler

April showers bring May flowers, but not all posies are a welcome sight. Although it is quite possible they arrived on the Mayflower, dandelions do not get the esteem they deserve as plucky immigrants that put down firm roots in a new land, or as a vitamin-packed culinary delight, or as a multi-purpose herbal remedy.

On this latter point, dandelion is so well-respected that it garnered the Latin name Taraxicum officinale, which roughly means “the official remedy for disorders.” There are many reported health benefits of dandelion, including as a liver support and for alleviating kidney and bladder stones, as well as externally as a poultice for skin boils. I don’t pretend to know every past and present medicinal use of the plant, and I strongly recommend consulting a respected herbalist, as well as your health care provider, before trying to treat yourself.

That said, the University of Maryland Medical Center has devoted an entire web page to dandelion, and it cites some peer-reviewed studies. I had previously heard that dandelion was used as an adjunct diabetes treatment, but had not found any references. However, the U of M Medical Center states that:

“Preliminary animal studies suggest that dandelion may help normalize blood sugar levels and lower total cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL (good) cholesterol in diabetic mice. Researchers need to see if dandelion will work in people. A few animal studies also suggest that dandelion might help fight inflammation.”

I’d say that’s not bad for a weed. You can buy dried and chopped dandelion root in bulk or in capsule form at most health-food stores, or you can get it for free in your back yard, providing you don’t use lawn chemicals.

Dandelion’s common name comes from the French “dent de lion,” or lion’s tooth, referring to the robust serrations along their leaves. Leaves vary widely in appearance, though, and aside from their yellow mane, not every dandelion is as leonid as the next. Apparently the French have a corner on the common-name market, because the other dandelion moniker is “pis en lit,” or “wet the bed,” as the dried root is strongly diuretic. More on that later.

Dandelion greens are best in early spring before they are done flowering. Harvesting late in the season is kind of like picking lettuce and spinach after they have bolted—edible, but not at their best. If you had a few dandelions take root in your garden last year, they are probably ready to uproot and eat right now. Sort of a new twist on the phrase “weed-and-feed.”

Young greens can be blanched and served in salad, or else boiled, but I like them best when chopped and sautéed. They go well in omelets, stir-fry, soup, casserole, or any savory dish for that matter. Fresh roots can be peeled, thinly sliced and sautéed. A real treat is dandelion crowns. The reason they flower so early is that they have fully-formed flower bud clusters tucked into the center of the root crown, whereas many other flowers bloom on new growth. After cutting off the leaves, take a paring knife and excise the crowns, which can be steamed and served with butter.

Roasted dandelion roots make the best coffee substitute I have ever tasted, and that’s saying something because I really love coffee. Scrub fresh roots and spread them out on an oven rack so they are not touching each other. You can experiment with higher settings, but I roast them at about 250 until they are crispy and dark brown throughout. Honestly I can’t say just how long it takes, somewhere between 2 and 3 hours. At any rate I always roast them when I have to be in the house anyway, and check them frequently after the two-hour mark. Grind them using a food processor or mortar and pestle. Compared to coffee, you use a bit less of the ground root per cup.

The beverage tastes dandy, but as mentioned above, it is more diuretic than coffee or black tea. I have never found this a problem, but if your morning commute frequently involves a traffic snarl, choose your breakfast drink accordingly.

I have not tried dandelion wine, a tradition that dates back centuries in Europe, and so have no first-hand experience to report, but scads of recipes can be found on the Internet. Several friends and family members have tried it, with negative and positive reviews pretty well split. I have no idea if it is personal preference or winemaking skill that is so evenly divided.

Given all the virtues of dandelions, it is amazing how much time and treasure our culture puts into eradicating them. It seems to verge on an obsession with some people, who drench their lawn with selective broadleaf herbicides like 2,4-D, dicamba and mecoprop. These all come with health risks, not to mention hefty price tags.

For those who perhaps take the whole lion connection too far and can’t sleep at night if there are dandelions lurking on the premises, I’ll share a secret to getting them out of the landscape. Setting the mower to cut at four inches high will not only get rid of most weeds, it will help prevent diseases, and will greatly reduce the need for fertilizer.

I say we stop trying to kill the only North American lion that is not in danger of extinction, and learn to appreciate and use it more.

Get a healthy gut by eating these three things

Source:http://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/well-good/teach-me/78921607/get-a-healthy-gut-by-eating-these-three-things

By DAVID PERLMUTTER

We all know eating well is important, but what if I told you that every food choice you make is either helping – or harming, the 100 trillion bacteria that call your intestines home.

Called the microbiome, this vibrant community of microscopic organisms is now the focus of cutting-edge science, which is exploring how the microbes in out gut influence every aspect of our physiology, including the activity of every brain cell.

Just what do your gut bugs do you for? For starters, they aid in digestion and the absorption of nutrients. They support the immune system and the body's detoxification systems.

They produce and release important enzymes and substances that collaborate with your biology, as well as making brain chemicals like serotonin, the "feel good" transmitter. They keep the gut wall from becoming 'leaky' or permeable (a cause of inflammation).

We now fully embrace the notion that depression is an inflammatory disorder, and that this inflammation is mediated by gut bacteria. Put simply, your microbiome influences practically everything about your health, including how you feel both emotionally and physically.

What you eat is arguably the most powerful way to promote the health and diversity of your microbiome, determining whether or not your gut is populated by health-sustaining organisms or by bad bugs.

This is my dietary prescription for managing your intestinal bacteria:

EAT MORE PREBIOTIC FOODS

Prebiotics are indigestible fibre and they are the ingredients that good gut bacteria use as fuel to nourish their own growth and activity, so they can do their job keeping their host (that's you!) healthy.

Prebiotics occur naturally in a variety of foods, and some of the richest sources include garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, chicory, Jerusalem artichoke and dandelion greens.

Foods high in prebiotics have been a part of the human diet since prehistoric times. It has been estimated that the typical hunter-gatherer consumed as much as 135g of inulin, a type of prebiotic fibre, daily.

Most of us don't get anywhere near enough prebiotics, so you should try to add them to your daily menu. I recommend two servings of prebiotic-rich foods each day.

ENJOY FERMENTED FOODS DAILY

You can get your probiotics (or beneficial bacteria) from a broad spectrum supplement, but I'd also suggest consuming whole, natural fermented foods daily.

These foods are naturally rich in probiotics, making them exceptionally bioavailable, or more easily accepted by your body.

Long before probiotics became available in capsules, people enjoyed the health benefits of fermented foods – in fact evidence suggests that humans have been fermenting foods for at least the last 7,000 years.

Try making the following probiotic-rich fermented foods part of your regular diet, enjoying them as a side dish or a condiment once or twice a day.

• Yogurt with live cultures (or coconut yoghurt)

• Kefir, a fermented drink made from milk or coconut milk

• Kombucha, a fizzy, fermented black or green tea

• Kimchi, a traditional Korean dish made from cabbage

• Sauerkraut

• Pickled fruits and vegetables

• Fermented meat, fish and eggs

BOOST YOUR HEALTHY FATS, REDUCE YOUR CARBS

I believe the optimal eating plan for a healthy gut and for overall health is a low-carb diet that's devoid of simple sugars, gluten-containing grains and flours, and is rich in healthy fats as well as prebiotic fibre.

By healthy fats, I mean extra virgin olive oil, coconut and sesame oil, butter, and the natural fats found in cold-water wild fish, grass-fed meat, poultry, and pork, eggs, avocados, nuts and seeds.

This particular diet supplies the ingredients to nourish not only healthy biology – and in turn a healthy microbiome – but also a healthy brain.

A low-carb diet is a diet that keeps blood sugar balanced and gut bacteria balanced. Ultimately, our gut microorganisms are our body's best friends, so let's do our best to take care of them.

- JuiceDaily.com.au

So Many Reasons to Love Dandelion Root + 3 Ways to Use It

Source:http://www.care2.com/greenliving/so-many-reasons-to-love-dandelion-root-3-ways-to-use-it.html

By: Andrea Bertoli

So many people have an unhappy reaction when they see dandelions pop up in their yard in the springtime, but these ‘weeds’ are actually a nutrient-dense food that has been used to nourish people for centuries.

The entire dandelion plant is edible– the roots, the leaves and even the flowers. Dandelion greens are delicious and full of vitamins and minerals – including A, C and K. They are a great green to use in salads, stir-fries and more. But it’s the roots that are the most powerful part of this unassuming plant. Dandelion root has been used for centuries as a tonic to improve the digestive system, and is credited with being especially helpful to the liver.

The Many Health Benefits of Dandelion Root

In herbalist practice, the roots are mainly used to stimulate the appetite, and to aid the liver and gallbladder. The plant has also been used traditionally as a diuretic.

Dandelion root also contains inulin, a type of fiber known as a prebiotic, which can help treat and prevent digestive issues as well as support a healthy immune system.

Dandelion root is generally regarded as safe, but it is always recommended to speak with a health care practitioner or herbalist before using a new herbal preparation. There are also allergy triggers for dandelion for those allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigold, chamomile, yarrow, daisies, or iodine, you should avoid dandelion.

How to use Dandelion Root for Tea, Tinctures and Other Drinks

One of the most beneficial ways to reap the benefits of dandelion root is to make dandelion root tea. Not only do many tea companies offer a packaged dandelion root tea (often under names like ‘detox’ or ‘liver cleanse’), many natural food stores will sell dandelion root in bulk. Dandelion root can then be blended at home for customized homemade herbal tea blends. Here’s an example of how you an use dandelion in a homemade tea blend.

While raw dandelion root has a bitter, medicinal flavor, roasted dandelion root is often used as an alternative to coffee because it tastes roasty and sweet. You can roast your own dandelion root, or try some of the ready-made dandelion ‘coffees’ on the market — my favorites are Teeccino and Dandy Blend.

Teeccino makes a huge variety of teabags and loose grounds that look like coffee, are brewed like coffee, and taste like coffee– but contain no caffeine and have all the health benefits of dandelion and chicory root. I like the mocha flavor over ice, which is slightly sweetened with dates and chocolate. Add your favorite plant-based milk and it’s like a healthy latte for any time of day. Dandy Blend is another instant alternative, made from dandelion root, grains and sugar beets. It’s a fine powder that can be used to make healthy mocha smoothies, or stirred into milk or ice water for an instant coffee-like (caffeine-free) drink. You can also make homemade dandelion root coffee.

Another way to enjoy the benefits of dandelion root is to make your own tinctures. Learn how to make homemade dandelion and cacao bitters, a stimulating tonic for cocktails and sodas, and these dandelion bitters for helping digestion and supplemental nutrition.

Dandelions: nuisance or nature’s nutritious gem?

Source:http://www.thenorthernlight.com/2016/04/06/dandelions-nuisance-or-natures-nutritious-gem/

By Jess Scott Wright, RDN