Uses Of Dandelion
The bitter compounds in Dandelion leaves and root help
stimulate digestion and are mild laxatives. They also increase bile production in the gall bladder and bile flow
from the liver.
This makes Dandelion a great tonic for people with
sluggish liver function due to alcohol abuse or poor diet. The increase in bile flow can help improve fat
(including cholesterol) metabolism in the body.
The whole plant is valuable as a general tonic. It may be taken as an infusion of
the leaf, a juice extraction, a root decoction, a fluid extract or a tincture. Fresh leaves may be added to
salads. The juice extraction is the most potent for medicinal purposes.
Dandelion has reportedly been used to eradicate warts and to soothe calluses, bee
stings, or sores.
Many herbalists view the Dandelion as an
effective treatment for liver disease, even in extreme cases such as cirrhosis. It can also benefit the
pancreas, kidneys, stomach, and spleen. The dried leaf, taken as a tea, is used as a mild laxative to relieve
constipation.
Dandelion leaf is a good natural source of potassium, and will
replenish any potassium that may be lost due to the herb's diuretic action on the kidneys. This means Dandelion is a
safe diuretic in cases of water retention due to heart problems.
The herb is useful in cases of anaemia and hepatitis, and may help to lower high
blood pressure. Dandelion may also provide relief for rheumatism and arthritis.
Dandelion therapy, consisting of therapeutic doses of dandelion preparations taken over time, may
help reduce stiffness and increase mobility in situations of chronic degenerative joint
disease.
Dandelion as a Diuretic - for the Kidneys
Most women experience pre-menstrual water retention. The familiar symptoms of
weight gain, bloating, breast tenderness, and irritability can make the week prior to menstruation
miserable.
A Diuretic helps the body with the elimination of urine. Synthetic diuretics flush
important minerals such as potassium from the body. Potassium, together with sodium, helps to regulate muscle
and nerve function. The loss of these minerals (called electrolytes) can cause dangerous muscle weakness and
loss of co-ordination, and even heart rhythm disturbances. Dandelions are remarkable sources of natural
potassium, and offer all the advantages of a balanced diuretic in natural form.
There are many other herbs for
women to help monthly periods as well as to help menopause symptoms.
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