Did you know those dreaded weeds in your yard actually have major health benefits? Dandelions have been used for centuries for the treatment of numerous ailments and diseases. The root and greens of dandelions can be consumed and are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
Dandelion greens come from the leaves of the dandelion and can be steamed, sautéed or even eaten raw. Dandelions are considered a bitter food, which were often consumed by our ancestors. Bitter foods have many benefits including aiding in digestive health and stimulating the liver to produce bile.
Dandelion greens may also help aid in weight loss. A study published in "Nutrition Research and Practice" showed that dandelion greens could possibly be used as an anti-obesity agent similar to that of weight loss drugs. It works by blocking the activity of pancreatic lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fat molecules in the body. Dandelion showed strong pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity in vitro and in vivo.
Dandelion root is also an edible part of the plant and studies have shown that it can help in preventing and treating cancer. A study published in "Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine" showed that dandelion root extract helped treat skin cancer cells and begin killing off cancer cells within 48 hours of treatment.
A study in "Oncotarget" showed that dandelion root extract killed 95 percent of colon cancer cells by 48 hours of treatment in cancer cell models, with no toxicity to non-cancer cells.
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Windsor in Ontario, Canada published a study showing that dandelion root extract has great potential as a non-toxic and effective alternative to conventional modes of chemotherapy available today. After successfully showing in-lab studies that dandelion root extract can kill cancer cells, the University of Windsor has received funding to test dandelion root extract as a treatment for patients with terminal cancer. They are currently undergoing clinical trials for the use of dandelion root extract for treatment of patients with blood cancers.
Make sure to choose dandelions away from roads or polluted areas which can contaminate dandelions. Also, avoid areas where weed killer or pesticides have been sprayed and wash dandelions thoroughly. You can also purchase dandelion root in tea and coffee form from a local health food store and many grocery stores. Dandelion root pills and liquid extract are also available at most health stores. Talk to your doctor before beginning any supplement.
Check out these delicious dandelion recipes:
» Roasted Dandelion Root Chai (learningandyearning.com)
2 tablespoons roasted dandelion root
1-inch piece of fresh ginger root (cut into thin rounds – no need to peel)
1 cinnamon stick (broken into several pieces)
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
5 whole cloves
4 green cardamom pods
1 whole star anise
3 whole allspice
3 cups cold water
milk of your choice
raw honey or maple syrup
Combine the dandelion root and spices in a saucepan. Add the cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 - 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Remove the dandelion and spices by straining. Fill mugs 3/4 of the way full. Add milk to fill the cup and sweeten to taste with raw honey, or maple syrup.
» Dandelion Pesto (from growforagecookferment.com)
1/2 cup shelled pine nuts
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chopped fresh dandelion leaves, loosely packed
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp lemon zest
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Place all ingredients except the Parmesan into a blender or food processor. Process until smooth. If it's too thick, slowly add a bit more olive oil. Add the Parmesan and continue to blend until the mixture has a smooth consistency. Refrigerate, and eat within three days.
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