Dandelion is a flower that we usually find in open fields. Its bright colours (yellow and white) becomes its main attraction. In addition to being used as an ornamental plant, dandelion has many health benefits. All parts of the dandelion including leaves, stems, flowers, and roots have some benefits for your health. Here are some of them:

• Rich in nutrients, dandelion is rich in vitamins (A, C, K, E, B), minerals (iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium), and fibre.
• Rich in antioxidants, dandelion contains beta carotene which acts as an antioxidant in maintaining cell damage.
• As an anti-inflammatory agent, it was found in some studies that the compounds contained in dandelion can help reduce inflammation that occurs in the body.
• Helps to maintain blood sugar levels, the active compounds of chicoric and chlorogenic acids contained in the dandelion are known to help maintain blood sugar levels by increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin.
• Lowering cholesterol levels, the active compounds contained in the stem and leaves of dandelion are known to help reduce the body's cholesterol levels, and with it the risk of heart disease.
• Maintaining blood pressure, it was found in some studies that dandelion may help lower your blood pressure, thanks to the mineral content of potassium in it.
• Reducing the risk of cancer, dandelion can help reduce the risk of growth of certain cancer cells such as colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, and liver cancer.
• Maintaining a healthy digestive system, dandelion has been used as a traditional herbal medicine in treating digestive disorders since a long time ago. Dandelion is rich in prebiotic inulin fibres, which are known to help “smoothen” the digestive system and improve bowel movements.
• Enhancing the immune system, dandelion is known to contain anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties that can help protect the body from attacks by bacteria or viruses.
• Helps to reduce weight, dandelion contains chlorogenic acid compounds that can help reduce weight.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Pixabay

Source(s):

• Healthline - 13 Potential Health Benefits of Dandelion (2018). https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dandelion-benefits, January 10, 2019.
• Medical News Today - 10 Health benefits of dandelion (2019). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324083.php, January 10, 2019.