Dandelion root. Medicinal properties and contraindications, benefits for women, recipes for use in folk medicine. How to dry, prepare, tincture, coffee

For the treatment and prevention of diseases, not only medications are used, but also various medicinal plants. These include dandelion, the roots of which are especially beneficial for the liver.

This article will discuss the healing properties of the plant, its benefits for the body and contraindications. You will learn medicinal recipes with dandelion root for weight loss, cleansing the liver and blood vessels, stimulating lactation, etc.

Chemical composition of the plant

water-soluble vitamins A, B1-4, C, E, PP, K;
minerals (iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, potassium, cobalt, selenium, phosphorus, zinc);
organic acids;
polysaccharides (about 20%);
vegetable proteins (in terms of capacity they compete with cereals);
resins, including up to 3% rubber;
fixed oils;
healing bitters (taraxacin, taraxacerin, lactucopicrin);
carotenoids, which have a positive effect on metabolism and improved vision;
asparagine;
inulin (up to 40% of the total content);
choline, which can protect the liver from negative effects and reduce cholesterol levels;
phytosterols;
triterpene compounds that have an anti-inflammatory effect;
alcohols and much more.

Dandelion root: beneficial properties and contraindications

The use of dandelion root in folk medicine is due to its positive effect on certain systems of human vital organs. It is necessary to consider each separately in order to put together a picture of the overall benefits of the presented raw materials.

Digestive tract

Dandelion officinalis contains the bitterness presented above, which has a mild laxative effect, stimulates appetite and removes bile from the body.

As a result, the electrolyte balance in blood cells and the balance of beneficial bacteria in the intestines are normalized.

It is necessary to use dandelion roots in any form in order to normalize the functioning of the stomach and intestines. Everything is explained by an increase in the production of secretions - gastric juice, so you can do without medications after a heavy dinner.

Bile removal

Separately, we should consider the choleretic effect of dandelion root, which is explained by the presence of β-sitosterol in its composition. This substance is actively used in the manufacture of medications designed to improve the functioning of the liver and the entire digestive tract.

If liver enzymes are added to the medicine, the functioning of the organ can be significantly improved, including preventive cleansing of toxins produced through the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Water removal or diuretic effect

Dandelion root can heal the kidneys by thoroughly “flushing” them. It is regular washing of the kidneys that helps improve their function and timely removal of calculi - kidney stones, which are formed from formed grains of sand.

The disinfecting properties of dandelion root help protect the kidneys from the development of diseases caused by infectious or microbial damage to the organ.

Dandelion root against cancer

If you have a genetic predisposition to cancer, it is necessary to use infusions and other dandelion-based products as a preventive measure. Dandelion root in oncology helps stabilize the patient’s condition and also resist the development of metastases.

Studies have shown that using the presented raw materials you can get rid of a cancerous tumor in the breast.

But this does not mean that you need to abandon traditional medicine and not take medications or undergo chemotherapy if necessary.

Normalization of blood sugar levels

Dandelion root-based products promote the production of insulin, which stabilizes human blood sugar levels. As a result of preventive use, you can improve your condition and prevent sudden surges in blood glucose.

Lower blood pressure

Hypertensive patients are recommended to use dandelion roots on an ongoing basis, as this can significantly improve their condition. Everything is explained by the diuretic effect and the presence of fiber in the composition, which helps reduce cholesterol levels.

Providing anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating effect

Thanks to fatty acids, raw materials have an anti-inflammatory effect, which has a positive effect on the absence of pain in certain diseases.

Researchers also note an increase in immune function, thanks to the timely fight against viruses, fungi and microbes.

Improvement of the skeletal system

The root of this plant contains a lot of calcium, which has a positive effect on bone strength. Dandelion can protect bones from age-related damage due to its content of the antioxidant luteolin.

Cleansing the body

Dandelion roots help cleanse the body of waste and toxins not only in the internal organs, but also at the cellular level.

It all comes down to the presence of antioxidants in dandelion roots - they prevent damage to cells and DNA, resulting in a reduced risk of developing genetic mutations.

Skin diseases

Based on dandelion root, you can prepare creams and ointments that will help heal skin wounds, get rid of boils and purulent rashes of various types.

Dandelion root medicinal properties

The belonging of this perennial plant to the genus Taraxacum (from the Greek - tarassoin, i.e. “to calm”) from the Asteraceae family reflects one of its healing qualities. The peculiarities of this plant also found their place in the different interpretations of its name (euphorbia, milkweed, oduy-/popova baldness, tooth root, milkweed, powder puff, cotton grass, elixir of youth, grandmother's grass).

The main pharmacological properties of its root system, which contains 50% of the periodic table, are as follows:

general strengthening;
tonic;
soothing;
vitamin;
anti-carcinogenic;
blood purifying;
secretory;
diuretics;
laxatives;
choleretic;
diaphoretic;
antipyretic;
anti-sclerotic;
antimicrobial;
antiviral;
antidiabetic;
anticancer;
antispasmodic;
anthelmintic;
rejuvenating.

How to make dandelion jam?

The healing properties of dandelion in jam do not disappear.
Dandelion jam and “honey” contain all the vitamins and minerals, as in a fresh plant.

Useful components from jam improve metabolism, help with colds, anemia, asthma, rejuvenate the body, cleanse the blood, and lower blood pressure .

This is what ready-made medicinal “honey” from dandelion flowers looks like

"Honey" from dandelion flowers

Recipe:

We take dandelions, wash them and tear off the green part, we need 200 g of dandelion petals , pour 1.5 liters of boiling water and leave for 24 hours.
Strain the infusion, squeeze out the petals and discard.
Add the juice of 2 lemons, 1.5 kg of sugar and cook, stirring at low boil, until it thickens.
Pour the hot “honey” into clean, resealable jars. Add a few teaspoons to green tea.

Dandelion flower jam retains all the healing properties of dandelion
Dandelion jam (classic recipe)

Recipe:

We collect 360-400 pieces. dandelion flowers without stems , wash them, fill them with cold water (2 cups).
Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Leave for 20 minutes, then strain through a colander and squeeze out the flowers.
Add 7 cups of sugar , let it boil and cook for 7 minutes.
Pour hot jam into clean jars and close with lids.

100 g of jam, prepared according to the classic recipe, contains:

3940 mg beta-carotene
232 mg potassium
140 mg calcium
44 mg sodium
42 mg phosphorus
24 mg magnesium
18 mg vitamin C
2.4 mg vitamin E
1.8 mg iron
0.28 mg zinc
0.23 mg manganese
0.12 mg each of copper and selenium

Note : The norm of beta-carotene for a person per day is 5 mg.
Note : To enhance the choleretic and anti-inflammatory properties, eat dandelion jam and wash it down with green tea, or milk thistle decoction.

Benefits of dandelion root for men

In order to stimulate potency, healers have long advised representatives of the stronger sex to consume root vegetables with the shape of the reproductive organ.

It is not for nothing that Chinese medicine believes that they are an accumulator of “yang” energy and belong to plants that increase potency. According to experts, the content of vitamins in the roots of this plant has a positive effect on the preservation of male power.

The presence of vitamins A and C helps normalize muscle functioning, prevent fatigue and general weakness. Vitamin E activates the activity of the reproductive/thyroid glands and pituitary gland. Micro- and macroelements help sperm viability. No less important is the influence of the composition of dandelion on the activity of the nervous system, which is very important for men.

Dandelion root cleanses blood vessels from cholesterol

The multivitamin composition ensures the normalization of cholesterol levels in the blood and prevents excess weight gain. Thanks to the chemical elements of the root vegetable, the level of estrogen (female hormone) production is reduced. This, in turn, increases sexual desire and interest in the opposite sex.

You can use fresh or dried roots by including them in your regular diet as one of the ingredients in vegetable salads, infusions, and drinks.

Dandelion officinalis

The precious medicine that grows under our feet and which we value little - it's all about the flower with parachutes, it's all about the dandelion. Dandelions are unassuming perennials that grow in unexpected places, along roads, on forest edges, in gardens and fields. There are more than 1000 species of dandelions. In practice, they are almost no different from each other. The differences are quite insignificant and boil down to the difference in the structure of the root and receptacle. Dandelions, like weeds, can grow in the most difficult and unpretentious conditions.

But not everywhere dandelions are treated only as a medicinal wild herb. In the USA, France and England, young dandelion leaves are actively used as food, adding them to salads. Flower caps are pickled, solyankas and soups are prepared from them, and jam is made. And the fact that roasted dandelion roots are used to make drinks is known not only in Western Europe. During the difficult years of war and famine, this vitamin drink was used to save people from illness in our area.

Recently, dandelion has been grown as a vegetable crop in many countries. New plant varieties have been developed in France. Cultivated dandelion species have an excellent taste without bitterness, thick, fleshy leaves with a delicate consistency. For the cultivation of dandelion plantations, special technologies have been developed that make it possible to collect good yields of the new medicinal and vegetable crop. Flower shoots are removed from plants, allowing the leaves to develop more intensively.

Benefits of dandelion for women

The use of dandelion potions for women is advisable in such cases as:

low-grade tumor of the mammary glands;
liver diseases;
problems with the genitourinary system and, in particular, cystitis;
functional ovarian cyst;
anemia (due to reduced blood flow during menstruation);
hormonal imbalance;
diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
increased menstrual pain.

One of the arguments for using dandelion is the period of menopause, when an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and progesterone occurs.

This can trigger the development of various diseases (polyps, fibroids, endometriosis, breast and uterine cancer). A decoction of dandelion roots (1 tbsp) is suitable here, which should be taken in single sips for 2-3 months at a total volume of 1 glass per day.

Collected and ground into a paste, the roots are applied to tumors on the breasts of women for their speedy resorption and to hardening on the lymph nodes under the armpits and in the groin. To treat hemorrhoids and stop uterine bleeding, the paste is wrapped in gauze and tampons are placed.

Liver cleansing tincture recipe

Dandelion root has choleretic properties, so it helps get rid of bile stagnation and cleanse the organ of toxins. It is possible to use the plant as a prophylaxis for liver diseases, as well as as part of therapy for hepatitis.

Instructions for preparation and use:

4 tbsp. l. add crushed roots to one liter of water.
Place the mixture over medium heat, bring to a boil and keep on the stove for another 25 minutes.
Then the broth is cooled and filtered through cheesecloth.

Take the medicine an hour before meals, drinking 100 ml. This needs to be done 2-3 times a day.

This healthy decoction will cleanse the liver and blood of toxins, speed up metabolism and improve the absorption of nutrients, strengthen the immune system and normalize the flow of bile.

How to use dandelion root for weight loss

Dandelion root, the medicinal properties of which help to get rid of excess weight, consists in activating human life processes. This concerns improving metabolism, accelerating the removal of toxins/excess fluid, and the breakdown of fats. At the same time, the body maintains a balance level of potassium due to its content in the root.

The diuretic and laxative effect of this healing part of the plant is harmoniously combined with the saturation of the body with a complex of vitamins and potassium. This prevents the weakening of the body and loss of energy that is typical of many diets.

The intended use of this herbal remedy is to use an infusion prepared at the rate of 10-20 g of raw materials per 1 liter of boiling water. After infusing the mixture for 3 hours and straining, take up to 2 tbsp before meals. l. Increasing the dose is undesirable to avoid the opposite effect (increased appetite).

Along with this, low-calorie cotton grass root can be used fresh by adding it to salads. In this case, in parallel with the process of losing weight, unlike diets with food restrictions, it is possible to achieve replenishment of the body with nutrients.

It should be remembered that taking the root of this plant to lose excess weight involves combining it with proper nutrition and physical activity.

What is dandelion?

What is dandelion, the medicinal properties and contraindications of dandelion, what are the beneficial properties of this plant, all this is of great interest to those who lead a healthy lifestyle, monitor their health, and are interested in traditional methods of treatment, including the use of medicinal herbs and berries So we will try to answer these questions in the following article.

So:

From a botanical point of view, dandelion is a perennial herbaceous plant up to 50 cm in height, with a thick tap root (up to 2 cm in diameter, up to 60 cm in length).

The leaves are collected in a basal rosette, pinnately pinnate, with downward-facing lobes, narrowed towards the base into a winged petiole. The flowers are golden-yellow, all ligulate, sit on a flat receptacle, the inflorescence is surrounded by a double involucre, the inner leaves of which are turned upward, and the outer ones are bent downwards. The roots, stems and leaves usually contain a white, very bitter milky sap.

Basically, the types of dandelion differ little from each other. The differences are small and come down to the shape of the root, and especially the structure of the fruit. The fruits are spindle-shaped achenes with a tuft of white fine hairs. Everyone knows the parachute seeds of this plant: when finally ripe, they are easily torn from the basket by a light breeze and carried away to considerable distances (up to hundreds of meters) from the mother plant. Up to 200 achenes are formed on one inflorescence. The seeds ripen about a month after the start of flowering. Repeated flowering and fruiting are often observed throughout the summer. Dandelion roots are used in medicine.

The flowering period of dandelion is one of the longest - from early spring to autumn. Mass flowering in May, individual flowering plants occur until autumn. The fruits ripen in June - August. Repeated flowering and fruiting are often observed throughout the summer. Dandelion propagates by seeds and vegetatively. The productivity of one plant ranges from 200 to 7000 seeds.

Dandelion officinalis is a perennial plant. It grows everywhere, and you can especially notice it during flowering, it has bright yellow (sunny) flowers. In spring, the body depletes its vitamin reserves, so there is an excellent opportunity to replenish them.

The plant has a lot of popular names: field dandelion, medicinal dandelion, kulbaba, spurge, empty, Jewish cap, tooth root, cotton grass, Russian chicory, butter flower, cow flower, March bush, milky flower, light flower, air flower, bald flower. All this, of course, is proof of the widespread and enormous popularity of this plant among people.

Dandelion is one of the most unpretentious perennial herbaceous plants. It grows mainly in meadows, gardens, along roads, in vegetable gardens, on forest edges, and in fields. The clarity of subordination to a certain biological rhythm is clearly visible in the frequency of daily blooming of its inflorescences: exactly at 6 o’clock in the morning the yellow baskets unfold and close at exactly 3 o’clock in the afternoon; The inflorescences also respond to atmospheric humidity - in cloudy weather, the baskets also close, protecting the pollen from moisture.

The aerial part of the dandelion contains alcohols, saponins, a significant amount of protein, vitamins C, A, B2, and nicotinic acid. Ascorbic acid (up to 50 mg%), vitamins B1, B2, E, carotenoids, resins, wax, rubber, alcohols, proteins were found in inflorescences and leaves. The leaves contain iron, calcium, manganese and phosphorus, the content of which is even higher than in leafy vegetables.

Dandelion root during pregnancy and breastfeeding

There is no consensus among specialists and traditional healers regarding the possibility of using dandelion remedies in such cases.

Despite the positive advice in some popular articles, most herbalists, pharmacologists, and doctors recommend avoiding this practice.

This is due to the fact that the condition of a pregnant woman, especially with toxicosis, may worsen due to the presence of phytohormones in the root, increased appetite and a laxative effect. During lactation, stimulation of breast milk production is observed, but with a bitter aftertaste. This leads to babies refusing natural feeding.

Indications for use

Based on the above, you can create a list of diseases that can be treated with dandelion root in its various variations:

pathologies of the liver and biliary tract - hepatitis and cholecystitis;
diseases of the gastrointestinal tract - constipation or diarrhea, lack of appetite or colitis;
pathologies of the genitourinary system - cystitis and inflammatory processes of the female genital organs;
joint pathologies – arthritis, arthrosis and others, gout;
damage to the skin - furunculosis or eczema;
diabetes mellitus – types 1 and 2;
atherosclerosis and high blood pressure (chronic or temporary);
insomnia.

It is recommended to use the presented raw materials only as an auxiliary therapy. The roots are used only at a time when the dandelion fruit is not ripe - that is, white fluffy stems have not appeared on the peduncle of the plant.

How to make coffee from dandelions? Video:

Can dandelion root be used for children?

To avoid an allergic reaction, taking herbal remedies is not recommended for children under 5-12 years of age. Upon reaching this age, their use for colds, viral infections, helminths, and constipation is allowed.

You can eliminate problems with children refusing decoctions and infusions from the bitter-tasting roots of this plant by soaking them in salted water 24 hours before preparation.

In each specific case, only a professional, based on the individual characteristics of the patients, can determine the advisability of including decoctions and infusions of dandelion roots in the diet.

Most popular recipes

Various remedies are prepared from dandelion flowers, leaves, and roots. The most popular are various infusions and tinctures, extracts, and decoctions. You can also use dandelion to make green smoothies, make “honey” and add the plant to salad. Even dandelion flower jam is considered useful in its own way.

Dandelion decoction

This remedy perfectly helps with problems of the musculoskeletal system, and is also effective in combating inflammation or infection in the body. It is prepared as follows:

For 1 glass of water, take 1 teaspoon of dandelion leaves and roots (washed, dried and then crushed), everything is boiled in an enamel bowl for a quarter of an hour, cooled and filtered.
The decoction should be taken warm, after meals, 2 times a day. If arthritis or arthrosis worsens, you can make lotions from this liquid to the inflamed areas .

Dandelion tincture

This remedy helps cleanse the liver, improves the functioning of the nervous system and has a mild laxative effect.

The dandelion tincture is prepared as follows: freshly picked (preferably not washed) flowers are placed in a jar until 3/4 of the volume is filled, then filled with vodka or alcohol to the top, closed tightly with a lid and infused in a dark place for 3 weeks. The mixture needs to be shaken from time to time. The liquid is then filtered out, after which it is ready for use.

Dandelion root tincture is rich in inulin. To prepare it, grind 100 grams of fresh, washed and dried roots, put them in a container and pour 0.5 liters of vodka. Shake everything and leave for 21 days, then strain. You can also make a tincture from dry roots, then you will need half as much.

Dandelion tea

Herbal tea from this plant has an invigorating effect; it saturates the body with vitamins and bioflavonoids.
To prepare, you need to pour 3-4 flowers with a glass of water and leave for 10 minutes, then strain. You can add 1 teaspoon of honey to improve the taste. The bitterness of the drink reduces appetite, which is why it is used for weight loss. For greater effectiveness, grind dried dandelion root in a coffee grinder and add it to coffee or other drinks. If you drink 100 grams of tea 3-4 times a day, it will be an excellent prevention of constipation.

Cocktails and smoothies

A dandelion cocktail is a real vitamin bomb. It has a tonic and restorative effect. The drink is prepared as follows: 2 tablespoons of crushed flowers and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped leaves of the plant are mixed with 300 grams of unsweetened yogurt, 1 tablespoon of honey and 15 grams of crushed walnuts. Everything is whipped with a mixer or blender and cooled before serving. 100 grams of cocktail or smoothie contains about 105 kcal.

Dandelion salad

Eating the plant in a fresh, raw form allows the body to maximally absorb all the beneficial substances contained in it. One of the options for using dandelion is making a salad from this wild plant. For the dish you need: 300 grams of young leaves of the plant, 1 fresh cucumber, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, vinegar, pepper and possibly honey to taste. The greens are chopped, then all the ingredients and dressing should be thoroughly mixed. You can supplement the salad with seeds or nuts - this will not only improve its taste, but also increase its nutritional value.

Dandelion jam

To make tasty, aromatic and healthy dandelion jam, you only need flowers. Approximately 200 grams of them are washed, then boiled for about 10 minutes over low heat, after which they are infused for half an hour. Next, the water is filtered out and the flowers are squeezed out. Into the liquid where the flowers were boiled, you need to add 700 grams of sugar, finely chopped lemon and put everything back on the fire. Cook over low heat for about half an hour, then pour into clean jars, roll up and let cool, then move to a cool place for storage.

Dandelion honey

Dandelion honey is not only a good dessert. It is used for medicinal purposes, as a remedy against colds and flu. It is prepared quite simply.

What you will need:

dandelion flowers 400 pcs;
water - 500 g;
sugar - 700 gr.

How to cook:

You need to pour water over the flowers, heat over low heat and bring to a boil, then set aside. After cooling, the mixture should be boiled again and simmer over low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally (so as not to burn). After this, the liquid is filtered through cheesecloth or a fine sieve, sugar is added to it, brought to a boil again and boiled for 10 minutes. Honey is poured into clean containers and stored in the refrigerator.

Use in folk medicine

Dandelion root, whose medicinal properties provide a wide range of effects, has received another popular name - “Russian ginseng”. It is used fresh, dried and ground to a pulp form for the preparation of medicinal decoctions, tinctures, infusions, powder, oil, tea/coffee substitutes, extract.

Such herbal remedies are very significant for the older generation with hypertension, restoring the body’s mobility by restoring cartilage joints. They can be very useful for a weakened body or in the presence of pathologies.

For diabetes

Like Jerusalem artichoke, purple echinacea, and burdock root, this plant is effective for diabetes thanks to inulin as a sugar substitute. This natural sorbent helps produce insulin and lower glucose levels. The available sterols promote lipid, cholesterol, fat metabolism, and the removal of toxic substances from the body.

The most commonly used way to use dandelion roots is to include it in medicinal herbal teas (in equal parts with blueberry and nettle leaves). During the day, this infusion of 0.5 cups should be taken before meals.

The second option is to mix the prepared decoction without adding other ingredients in equal proportions with fresh plantain juice and drink immediately.

In each case, the approval of the attending physician is necessary in order to avoid complications due to problems with high acidity and the condition of the bile ducts.

To boost immunity

You can increase the body’s overall resistance to various diseases and infections with the help of health tea, for which you use at least 14 ingredients, namely:

roots of dandelion, nettle, valerian, angelica, burnet;
herbs St. John's wort, sandy immortelle, oregano, centaury, motherwort, yarrow, thyme, celandine, sage;
flowers of calendula, linden, chamomile;
pine buds;
leaves of mint, coltsfoot, plantain, eucalyptus;
caraway fruits.

Cooking algorithm:

Mix the components in equal parts (1 tbsp each).
Pour boiling water (3 l) over the collection. Separate brewing of each component is allowed.
Leave for at least 8 hours.
Place in the refrigerator (shelf life: 3-4 days).

Herbal tea should be consumed warmed 3 hours before bedtime and 1 hour before meals.

For dermatitis and skin rashes

Dandelion roots, due to their medicinal properties, can influence the activation of the immune system, helping to cure dermatological diseases. After all, the functioning of internal organs is reflected in the condition of the skin.

This interdependence is based on the fact that when any organ is dysfunctional, toxic products are released. They spread through the circulatory/lymphatic systems and exit through the skin, which manifests itself in the form of various rashes. The antitoxic properties of dandelion root help reduce these negative effects.

To combat various manifestations of skin inflammation (pimples, blackheads, boils, psoriasis, eczema, allergic irritation), a decoction is effective. It can be used internally and externally.

To treat ulcers, bedsores, and burns, ointment or oil made from dandelion root powder is used.

The oil from it is prepared in the following sequence:

Grind 2 tbsp. l. dried and chopped plant roots.
Pour the resulting powder 8 tbsp. l. unrefined vegetable oil (olive, sunflower).
Infuse the resulting mixture in a tightly sealed container for 14 days.
Strain it and transfer it to a glass container.
Store in the refrigerator.

Effect on the digestive system

In gastroenterology, the secretory, laxative, and antispasmodic properties of the roots of the grandmother's grass play a decisive role.

It helps solve problems such as:

dysbiosis and bloating;
treatment of gastritis, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, hepatitis;
improvement of gastric microflora;
normalization of stool;
prevention of liver diseases;
improvement of appetite.

In order to normalize metabolic and digestive processes, experts recommend daily consumption of tea from dried and crushed dandelion rhizomes (1 tsp per 1 tbsp of boiling water). And for the treatment of liver pathologies and gastritis, the proportions of this tandem should be changed: 1 tbsp. l. powder per 0.5 l. boiling water

For gastrointestinal diseases, you can use an infusion of a mixture of dandelion root (1 tbsp.), herbs wormwood and yarrow (2 tbsp. each). The resulting preparation should be poured with 250 g (1 glass) of boiling water, tightly closed with a lid and allowed to brew for at least 20 minutes. Reception: 1 tbsp. 30 minutes before meals.

A more popular option is to prepare an infusion from 1 tbsp. l. root powder and 1 cup of chilled boiled water. This mixture must be infused for at least 8-10 hours and consumed 4 times a day, 0.25 cups 0.5 hours before meals.

For oncology

The effectiveness of using this part of the plant when included in the treatment complex of this natural antioxidant and anticarcinogen is confirmed by clinical studies. To restore the body, obtain a supply of microelements and vitamins, and remove toxins after chemotherapy, decoctions, infusions/tinctures, juices, and teas are used.

For cancer, the tincture can be used. For lung cancer, it is more advisable to take a decoction.

Using dandelion at home

What are the uses of dandelion officinalis? What medicines can be prepared from this plant at home? What dishes can be prepared from it?

Tea

Dandelion tea can be taken as a general strengthening, tonic, and to prevent vitamin deficiency. Tea is also prescribed to remove small stones from the kidneys (the procedure is called “water shock”).

Preparation

Take 2 tbsp. l. dry or fresh crushed raw materials.
Pour in ½ liter of water.
Bring to a boil.
Leave for 20 minutes.
Strain.

For preventive purposes, take ½ glass 3 times a day before meals. To remove kidney stones, tea is diluted with warm boiled water. The total volume of liquid should be 2 liters (including tea). This solution is drunk in small sips over 20 minutes. Due to the large intake of water into the body, stones are washed out. The passage of small stones is accompanied by pain. It is important to know that the “water blow” is carried out only on the recommendation of a doctor.

Decoction

A decoction of the leaves and inflorescences of the herb is often used as a choleretic, diuretic, sedative, multivitamin, and blood purifier.

Preparation

Take 1 tsp. chopped grass.
Pour a glass of boiling water.
Boil for 2 minutes.
Leave for another 30 minutes.
Strain.

Take ½ glass 3 times a day before meals. It helps well with constipation, bloating, hemorrhoids, and diabetes. Externally used to treat skin rashes (psoriasis, eczema, allergies, acne), as well as burns and insect bites. Decoctions are added to medicinal baths for joint pain and insomnia.

Infusion

Traditional healers recommend preparing cold infusions, without steaming the herbs. They retain more vitamins.

Preparation of infusion in a cold way

Take 2 tsp. chopped herbs (dry or fresh).
Pour a glass of cold boiled water.
Leave in a cool place for 8 hours.
Strain.

This infusion should be drunk throughout the day in the following dosage: 1 tbsp. spoon 4 times a day 30 minutes before meals. It is useful to drink for digestive disorders, especially inflammation of the stomach and intestines.

Preparing the infusion using the hot method

Take 1 teaspoon of raw material.
Pour a glass of boiling water.
Leave for 1 hour.
Strain.

Take ¼ cup 4 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

Tincture

Dandelion tincture with alcohol is good for joints. For rheumatism, gout and arthritis, it is used for rubbing. Also, alcohol tincture strengthens the immune system, improves metabolism, digestion, appetite, and acts as a sedative. Can be prepared from fresh or dry ingredients.

Preparation

Take 5 tbsp. l. dry grass.
Pour in ½ liter of vodka.
Leave in a dark place for 14 days.
Shake occasionally.

Before use, strain the tincture. Take 30 drops 3 times a day before meals.

A decoction, infusion, powder, and alcohol tincture are often prepared from dandelion roots or a mixture of roots, flowers, and leaves. Homemade medicine from the roots of the herb is especially useful for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, atherosclerosis, gout, rheumatism, hypertension, anemia, endocrine system disorders, for cleansing the blood, lowering cholesterol levels. The roots are included in herbal diuretic, choleretic, and appetizing preparations. Read more about the use of dandelion root in our other article.

Oil

Dandelion oil can be used as an ointment for rheumatic pain. Most often the oil is made from the roots of the plant, but the leaves and flowers can also be used.

Preparation

Take 1 part of chopped roots.
Pour in 4 parts olive oil.
Leave for 14 days in a warm place.
Strain.

Most often used externally. Dandelion oil is an effective medicine for joints; it is rubbed into sore spots and compresses are made from it. It also helps with thermal, chemical, and radiation burns, and is used in cosmetology.

Juice

In folk medicine, dandelion juice is widely used. You can drink it for all the diagnoses and symptoms listed above. The juice from fresh leaves is especially useful for anemia, it restores strength well, saves from vitamin deficiency, and energizes. The juice helps with gastrointestinal disorders. It is recommended to be used together with black radish juice for inflammation of the liver, cholelithiasis, cough and ARVI. For fractures, it is prescribed along with carrot juice for rapid healing of bones; it is useful for children to drink it to prevent rickets. Externally used in dermatology and cosmetology.

There are positive reviews about the benefits of juice for older people. After taking it, fragile bones are strengthened and joint pain goes away. Are there any special contraindications for dandelion juice? Dandelion milky juice, depending on the dosage, can be beneficial or harmful to the body. Juice should not be given to children in large quantities, otherwise it may cause signs of poisoning.

Cosmetology

In cosmetology, various medicinal forms of dandelion are used - decoctions, infusions, fresh juice, alcohol tincture, oil.

For facial skin. Dandelion products cleanse, nourish, moisturize and rejuvenate the skin. Decoctions and infusions are used to wipe pimples, acne, and boils. The oil eliminates dryness and inflammation of the skin, and dandelion juice helps with age spots, freckles, and is used to whiten the skin.
For hair. The herb contains all the most useful and necessary substances for healthy hair - vitamins A, E, C, PP, trace elements, organic acids, fatty oil. You can use decoctions and infusions to rinse your hair after washing or make masks from them; the oil is rubbed into the roots to strengthen the hair and for dry skin.

Cooking

In some European countries (France, Germany, Austria, Holland), dandelion is cultivated as a leaf vegetable. It is also grown on plantations in India and the USA. The young, earliest leaves of the grass can be eaten immediately. It is recommended to soak later leaves in salted water to remove the bitterness. Dandelion dishes are not only a supply of vitamins, microelements, and organic acids. Dandelion leaves in the diet are a prophylactic against viral, bacterial, fungal infections, and helminthic infestations. What can you cook from dandelion?

Salads. There are many recipes for making salads from dandelion leaves. They are prepared not only in Europe, but also in China and the USA. What ingredients may be included? Eggs, butter, parsley, dill, mint, yogurt, sour cream, sorrel, pepper, vegetables. For example, in France, dandelion salad (“pissali”) is seasoned with a sauce of mayonnaise, butter and mustard.
Pickled leaves and flowers. Unopened flower buds and young leaves are pickled for long-term storage. They are added to salads, soups, and vegetable dishes.
Treats. Dandelions (flowers and leaves) make a delicious treat - syrup, jam, candied fruits. It is also known that the grass is a good honey plant; the pollen of the flowers produces tasty and healthy honey.
Coffee. Roasted ground roots make delicious and healthy coffee. Reminds the taste of chicory due to its inulin content.
Wine. Traditional dandelion wine is made in the UK. The famous American writer Ray Bradbury dedicated his autobiographical book “Dandelion Wine” to this drink. The author, of course, does not glorify wine, but the breath of life itself, nature, summer, sun, feelings - and all this through the eyes of a twelve-year-old boy.

What are the main beneficial properties of dandelion? Choleretic, multivitamin, diuretic, blood purifying, diaphoretic, sedative, hypnotic, antispasmodic, bactericidal. Beneficial substances are contained in the flowers, leaves and roots of the plant. Infusions, decoctions, teas, oils, and tinctures are prepared from dandelion. The plant is also popular in cooking around the world.

How to prepare tincture, decoction, ointment from dandelion roots

Tincture

Ingredients:

finely chopped fresh roots - 0.5 cups (or 50 g - dry);
vodka/medicinal alcohol – 0.5 l.

Infuse in a dark, cool place with periodic shaking for 14 days. After this period, the tincture must be filtered and stored in the refrigerator for subsequent use for its intended purpose.

Decoction

Cooking methods:

Pour 1 tbsp. l. finely chopped raw materials with boiling water (1 cup) and simmer for 25 minutes over low heat. Use after cooling and straining.
3 tsp. Boil crushed dry roots in 0.5 liters of water, then cool and strain.
Prepare a decoction using these components in a water bath by setting the dishes for 15 minutes. into a saucepan of constantly boiling water.

Ointment

Cooking algorithm:

Make a paste from the raw, fresh root.
Mix it with butter/vaseline/ground lard (30 g).
Infuse the resulting product in a cool place (3 days).
Place in the refrigerator for storage and external use for 7 days.

The use of any of these folk remedies should be preceded by consultation with specialists.

Use in the treatment of diseases

Dandelion-based medicines help with many diseases and pathological conditions. Their use against diseases is quite extensive:

Diseases	Mode of application
general strengthening of the body	extract from plant flowers
antiviral, including during exacerbations of herpes	internal intake of fresh dandelion flowers, treatment of herpes ulcers and rashes with alcohol tincture
liver cleansing, cirrhosis relief	flower decoction
for rheumatism, relief of inflammation during exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis and polyarthritis	flower extract
to reduce blood cholesterol	alcohol infusion
against colds and flu	alcohol infusion
for cleansing the skin, eliminating warts	fresh dandelion juice (milky juice)
for constipation	crushed, dried dandelion roots
to remove lamblia from the body	dandelion root decoction

The following video talks about how to use dandelion for good.

Dandelion root in cooking

Dandelion root, the medicinal properties of which are preserved in fresh/dried/canned forms, is useful to add to the diet. It can be used for preparing cold and hot dishes, cereals, and desserts.

In order to mask the bitter taste, before use it should be soaked in cold water with the addition of a little citric acid/vinegar. When used for salads, it can be combined with creamy sauces, aromatic sweet foods, balsamic vinegar, and cooked.

A good option would also be to combine it with spicy ingredients (onion, garlic, lemon, chili pepper). It can be used together with mustard/beet greens, sorrel, zucchini, olive/walnut oil.

One of the original hearty dishes can be prepared on the go. To do this, you need to mix no more than 50 g of finely chopped fresh roots with carrots and fry using sunflower oil for 3-5 minutes over a fire. It will take more time to prepare fried potatoes and paste with this useful part of the plant.

Dandelion root tea

For such a phytodrink, dry roots crushed in a coffee grinder/mortar (1 tbsp) should be poured with boiling water (1 l), cover with a lid and let steep for 20-30 minutes.

After this, pour the tea into cups and drink throughout the day with the addition of honey. The course of taking such a medicinal drug lasts 2 weeks, followed by a break of up to 3 months.

This pleasant-tasting tea accumulates the healing properties of the plant. It has a tonic, antibacterial, invigorating effect and has a beneficial effect on digestion.

Dandelion root coffee

To prepare a coffee drink, you need to fry the chopped roots in the oven or in a frying pan until they acquire a rich brown color. Before use, the prepared raw materials are ground in a coffee grinder and prepared in a manner similar to the taste and color of traditional coffee.

At the same time, lovers of refined caffeine-free drinks can add cinnamon, sugar, milk, cream, and chicory to taste. According to reviews, the prepared medicinal powder can be mixed with any types of coffee powder (in equal parts).

This recipe is one of the options when, for health reasons, you need to get rid of your “coffee” addiction without giving up your addictions.

The healing properties of dandelion

Our ancestors knew about the benefits of the sun flower. And modern science confirms the value of the “weed” plant. Proof of this is the rich biochemical composition.

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/dandelion-flower-plant-blossom-3358942/ Using dandelion preparations allows you to:

increase appetite;
improve digestion;
increase the secretion of bile;
calm the nervous system;
ensure easy removal of feces from the intestines;
increase urination;
strengthen the immune system;
prevent atherosclerosis;
get rid of worms and other parasites;
reduce body temperature;
increase sweating;
reduce spasms;
improve lactation in women.

Using dandelion in cosmetology

Dandelion root, whose medicinal properties can have a positive effect on the condition of internal organs, is also relevant for skin and hair care. The convenience of using this part of the plant lies in the possibility of using it not only fresh, but also dried all year round.

Inexpensive cosmetics made from it help solve problems such as:

decreased skin tone;
pigmentation;
warts;
acne, pimples;
sunburn;
rashes;
combating the negative impact of the atmosphere;
seborrhea;
hair loss.

Along with using the prepared oil and ointment, you can also prepare powder from this part of the dandelion. The method of preparing it is to thoroughly grind the dry roots using a coffee grinder.

Due to its high solubility in oil and water, it can be used to enrich ready-made cosmetics (masks, scrubs, balms, shampoos) and hand-made products (tonics, soap, lotion, cream).

It has a wide range of applications, incl. h.:

getting rid of defects of different skin types;
removal of toxins;
fight against inflammation of the skin of the face and head;
"unruly hair.

Dandelion lotion for problem skin

The product helps saturate the skin with beneficial elements; making it smooth; eliminating excess fat, porosity, irritation; accelerating regeneration.

Cooking method:

Grind the roots along with the stems, flowers, and leaves.
Place the prepared plant mixture in a glass container.
Fill it with vodka/cologne (at the rate of 1 glass of liquid = 1 glass of dandelions).
Place the container filled and covered with a lid for 10-12 days in a dark, cool place.
Strain the resulting extract and add distilled/boiled water (1:2) to it.

The shelf life of this product is up to 7 days. The prepared lotion must be shaken before each use. After this, pour a little into a separate bottle (for one-time use).

It is allowed to add a moisturizing oil suitable for a specific skin type to the product. Before going to bed, the lotion is applied to a cleansed face along the massage lines, and then all problem parts are carefully wiped.

Description and interesting facts

The rulers of China in the fifteenth century added dandelion to their food.
There is a dandelion salad. Salad "Pisanli". Fresh leaves of the plant are collected and soaked in water for forty minutes to change the taste. The use of the flower in food is not uncommon.
Dandelion is placed in various soups; jam, alcohol, and honey are prepared from its leaves.
The famous writer Ray Bradbury called the book “Dandelion Wine”, due to the fact that in England they prepare wine with the same name.
In third world countries, dandelions are used instead of cabbage, pickling its leaves.
A leaf mask rejuvenates and moisturizes the skin better than any cream. Therefore, it is actively used in cosmetology.

What does it look like

Perennial herbaceous plant.
Its root, compared to the trunk, is large and can be compared to a human finger.
The trunk is bitter in taste and small in size.
Numerous leaves of unusual shape. They are arranged in a cluster, feathery.
The so-called flower arrow is usually single, narrow in diameter, and one basket grows on it.
The leaves are somewhat reminiscent of a spider's web.
The flowers are bright yellow.
Numerous dandelion fruits are achenes. During ripening, the achenes form into a small fluffy ball. Everyone once blew on a dandelion, and in an instant it scattered in different directions.

Each part of the dandelion has a bitter taste as it secretes milky juice. The ripening period is early summer, and fruiting occurs in mid-summer. If the weather is good for several weeks (usually spring), the plant may begin to ripen earlier.

How to prepare and store

Digging of roots in environmentally friendly places is carried out during the period of maximum concentration of useful substances in them, namely:

spring - before the first leaves and flowers appear (April-May);
autumn - when the above-ground part of the plant withers (late September - 1st ten days of October).

To prepare raw materials, you should choose the largest rhizomes. After collection, they must be cleared of soil, washed thoroughly in running water and dried a little in clear weather in the open air.

Final drying is carried out after the milky juice has stopped secreting from the roots. To do this, the raw materials are placed in a ventilated and dry room or in an oven/oven at a temperature of +40-50°C.

After this, the workpiece should be folded into paper/fabric bags and hung in a warm room. In this form, it can be stored without loss of beneficial qualities for up to 5 years.

Contraindications

Dandelion root can be not only beneficial, but also harmful. Contraindications to its use are:

Increased acidity of gastric juice;
Stones in the gallbladder and its ducts;
Acute gastrointestinal diseases;
Individual intolerance;
Dandelion root should not be used to treat children under 5 years of age.
Pregnant women should use the plant with caution: dandelion contains plant hormones.

If the permissible dose is exceeded, adverse reactions occur: this may include nausea with vomiting, headache and dizziness, and diarrhea.

Contraindications and possible harm

individual intolerance or hypersensitivity to one of the components;
allergies (with long-term use);
gastritis, accompanied by an increased level of hydrochloric acid secretion;
ulcerative lesions of the stomach, duodenum;
cholelithiasis (stagnation, blockage of ducts);
pancreatitis in the acute stage;
diarrhea (chronic and acute phase);
bearing a child and the period of feeding;
violation of the dosage of drugs and the norms for their administration.

It is important to take into account the inadmissibility of using the medicinal properties of dandelion root without consulting specialized doctors and herbalists. The desire to correct one system of the body or appearance should not provoke the emergence of other problems.

Article design: Vladimir the Great

Benefits for oncology

Since the plant is a natural antioxidant and a weapon against carcinogens, it is used in the treatment of cancer and as a prevention of oncology.

The benefits of dandelion for the body during cancer include:

removal of toxins after chemotherapy;
combating non-invasive tumor cells;
reducing the size of malignant neoplasms;
preventing metastasis of colon cancer, breast cancer and other types of tumor;

Before starting use, you should definitely consult a doctor, because in addition to the medicinal properties, dandelion root has contraindications.

What is the composition of dandelion root?

The unique chemical composition of dandelion has made it one of the most popular components for many herbal medicines.

The benefits of dandelion root are explained by the content of tri-terpene compounds such as taraxol and taraxerol, sterols, inulin, choline and carotenoids, as well as the bitter substance lactucopicrin. Dandelion root contains B vitamins, vitamins A and C, resins and fatty oils.

The macro- and microelement composition of the root of this plant is impressive. It contains potassium, calcium, zinc, lithium, silver, boron, manganese and others. It also contains wax and rubber; closer to autumn, up to 18% of plant glucose accumulates in the dandelion root.

Beneficial properties of dandelion leaves

The leaves of the milkweed plant are as beneficial as the rest of its parts. They are used fresh for preparing delicious salads and seasoning borscht. The dried raw materials are brewed and used as a healing tea.

Carotenoids, bitters, vitamins increase immunity, protect the liver, relieve abdominal cramps, and gently weaken. Herbal tea will help you get back on your feet during the initial stages of bronchitis, pneumonia, and flu. It is also useful as a diuretic, relieves swelling, removes excess fluid. Chinese herbalists recommend applying young leaves to the breast when congestion occurs during feeding.

Know! Taraxic acid stops the growth of cancer cells and transforms malignant tumors into benign ones.

Medicinal properties of dandelion and its composition

Thanks to B vitamins, as well as A, E, K, C and PP, calcium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, iron, plus boron, copper and cobalt, as well as some proteins in dandelion - this whole set makes This plant is quite nutritious. Therefore, during the spring “hunger” for vitamins, dandelion is one of the first and favorite ingredients in a fresh salad.

Even our ancestors, not knowing all the constituent elements of dandelion, highly valued it for its beneficial effects on health. When scurvy was rampant, dandelion leaves were eaten, which relieved the disease. They were eaten for better functioning of digestion, gall bladder, kidneys and liver.

And now, if a person has any malfunction of the liver or gall bladder, it is recommended to be treated with dandelion. Its juice has a choleretic and antispastic effect, which makes it easier to feel with hepatitis, hepatic colic, and gallstones. Moreover, the best combination for these problems belongs to the juices of dandelion and black radish.

The following medicinal properties of dandelion have also been studied: antifungal, antiviral, anthelmintic, antidiabetic.

Not only spring salads, but also soups are made from young dandelion leaves. These dishes will saturate your cells with vitamins, improve metabolism and contribute to your slim figure.

All components of this plant are equally useful: tannins and mucous substances, large amounts of inulin, oils, proteins, sugars, organic acids, as well as various resins and sterols are found dandelion roots

Decoctions are prepared from the dried root. Its bitterness is an excellent remedy for healing the liver and improving the digestive process. Dandelion roots have choleretic properties. If you make a tincture from them, you can activate your appetite, cleanse the blood, relieve cramps and get a laxative effect.

Not only a decoction or infusion is made from dandelion roots, but also a powder. All this is beneficial for problems such as high blood pressure and atherosclerosis. The treatment recipe is incredibly simple: drink 5g of the product with water once a day. This will help cleanse the body of bad cholesterol.

Powder from dry roots can expel carcinogenic substances from cells through sweat and urine.

The roots of the plant will also help with thyroid problems, toxic goiter, plus tuberculosis and allergies.

If you suffer from skin rashes or eczema, you should take baths with a decoction of the roots for some time.

By the way, dandelion root can be lightly fried and then used as a substitute for coffee, while dried flowers and leaves can be brewed as tea.

Dandelion is also useful for eye diseases. It will help relieve eye fatigue, inflammation and swelling, improve vision and eliminate the risk of developing glaucoma and cataracts.

When you pick these plants, you get an incredibly valuable substance on your fingers and palms: dandelion juice . You should not immediately wash off this milk for fear of its characteristic bitterness, because it is very healthy.

To get dandelion juice at home, collect young leaves of the plant, wash them thoroughly, scald with boiling water, run through a blender and squeeze out the juice through cheesecloth. Then it will need to be diluted with boiled water 1x1. To remove bitterness, soak the leaves for 30 minutes before making juice. in saline solution (3 tablespoons of salt per 1 liter of boiled water t=22°). The taste of the juice will also be improved by honey.

Dandelion milky juice is an excellent remedy for acidifying the body.

Dandelion milk is its juice, and it is not for nothing that it is called milk, because during lactation it is an excellent way to increase the production of breast milk. However, an infusion of the leaves and roots of the plant has the same effect.

Juice and decoctions prepared from medicinal dandelion will restore lost strength, improve metabolism, cleanse toxins and lead to increased insulin production and better functioning of the pancreas.

Gout and dropsy, urolithiasis and rheumatism - the juice will help in the treatment of these problems.

Calluses and warts, acne - try lubricating the desired areas with the milk of this plant.

For joint problems, you can drink dandelion milk, and also prepare lotions or compresses with it. The same lotions for injuries are prepared from a decoction of dandelion root.

To speed up the healing of bones during a fracture, take the milk of our amazing plant or prepare a mixture of its leaves and roots and the juice of carrots and turnip leaves. Also, this remedy can strengthen the skeletal system in old age, and for children, prevent rickets. It will also help, if necessary, strengthen teeth and eliminate problems such as periodontal disease.

If you still don’t like the bitterness of dandelion milk when taken orally, hold it for 30 minutes. leaves in salted water - the bitterness will go away. Or, in the process of preparing a salad from its leaves, you can season it with lemon juice or vinegar, you will get the same effect.

The blood cleansing effect of dandelion has been known since ancient times. It was called the herb to cleanse “bad blood.” Now it is worth using if you have inflamed lymph nodes, for poisoning, and also for cancerous tumors.

For nervous disorders, dandelion will calm you down and have a hypnotic effect.

Also, the medicinal properties of dandelion make it a remedy that can reduce the temperature of a cold, remove excess fluid as a diuretic, relieve pain and neutralize bacteria. The most interesting thing is that, having a mild diuretic effect, dandelion does not lead to the loss of potassium by the body, which occurs as a result of taking conventional diuretics. On the contrary, due to its composition, this plant saturates the body with potassium.

“Elixir of Life” is another popular name for dandelion, which has come to us from the distant past, because those who sought to preserve youth longer and give the body energy often used this plant.

What incredible benefits lie in this humble yellow plant, perceived by many as a weed! Although, of course, dandelion also has contraindications. Let's get to know them better.

Reed (true) dandelion flower

Reed flowers are the most perfect in the Asteraceae family.

The flat corolla ends with five teeth, and clearly shows its origin from five petals fused in one plane.

The reed flower looks like a long narrow reed and at first glance appears to be one petal. But upon careful examination, you can see that in the lower part this tongue is folded into a tube from which a pestle emerges.

Dosage forms

Almost any dosage form can be prepared from dandelion, and all of them find successful use:

juice from fresh leaves as an antipyretic and antispasmodic;
oil infused with roots, for compresses and rubbing;
hot and cold infusion for oral administration;
tincture of vodka or alcohol for rubbing or oral use;
a decoction of the aerial parts of the plant for external and internal use, as well as for adding to baths;
extract from flowers as a general strengthening and tonic preparation;
combined preparations with different herbs, for example, burdock and wheatgrass for complex therapy.

Culinary recipes with the dandelion plant

Dandelion leaf salad. Fresh leaves are washed under running water, cut into strips, salted and seasoned with sour cream or vegetable oil and lemon juice. You can add onions and carrots or apples and cabbage to the salad.

Okroshka with dandelion. Chop the young leaves of the plant into strips (five to six pieces) and cut the flower caps (ten pieces), add them to 500 ml of sour milk or kefir, add green onions and dill, season with sour cream and salt. As you know, okroshka is a cold dish, serve it cold.

Dandelion honey. Collect 500g of inflorescences and mix, unwashed, with two lemons, grated with the zest. Place 12 cherry leaves and 1.5 liters of water there. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring continuously. Then the mixture should be placed in a cool place for 24 hours. Once this time has passed, the mixture is passed through cheesecloth and mixed with 1.6 kg of granulated sugar. Everything is placed on low heat and after boiling, cook for 1 hour. Honey is ready! It is cooled and poured into small sterilized containers.

Ray Bradbury in his famous story sang dandelion wine . For lovers of unusual drinks, you can try making it.

Dandelion wine is prepared as follows: ripe inflorescences are collected, separated into individual petals and placed in a liter jar until it is completely filled. Then the petals are poured into a pan and filled with three and a half liters of water, boiled in advance. Under the lid, the petals are kept in water for exactly one day.

When this time has passed, the petals must be removed and, squeezing, removed. Pour 500 ml of water with 1 kg of sugar dissolved in it into a saucepan. There also put 2g of citric acid and 10 pcs. unwashed raisins. 48h. the mixture is infused in a warm place.

Then the entire contents are poured into a bottle, over the neck of which a rubber ball or glove is pulled. To allow carbon dioxide to escape, make a small hole in a rubber ball, insert one end of a rubber tube into it, and place the other end in a bowl of water.

This entire “structure” is placed in a dark and warm place for fermentation for about a month. The finished wine takes on an amber color. In order not to stir up the sediment, the wine is poured from the bottle through a rubber tube into a new container, in which the wine will then stand for another three to four months to fully mature. It will ripen well tightly sealed in a cool and dark place.

Well, friends, as we now know, dandelion is not only a remedy for many health problems, but also a useful and unusual addition to our diet.

I also advise you to watch this video on how to make the simplest salad from dandelion leaves:

Source

Expert opinion on the use of dandelion root

Many doctors and herbal experts speak of dandelion as a true “storehouse of vitamins.” This is understandable, because its chemical composition is unusually rich, and many compounds are in the most acceptable form for the human body.

Experts in the field of dietetics and proper nutrition recommend dandelion remedies for those who have a decreased appetite. They are useful for anorexia. Herbalist and biologist M.V. Gordeev notes that all parts of the dandelion are useful, but most of the valuable micro- and macroelements are concentrated in its root. He advises taking medicines from this root as an adjunct to patients with hepatitis and those who have an enlarged liver or problems with the gallbladder.

Expert opinion

Traditional recipes with dandelion

Diseases	Dosage form	Recipe
Gastritis, gout, eczema, allergies, anemia.	Tincture	1 tbsp. l. dry leaves, and 1 tsp. dried roots, pour 200 ml of boiling water. Keep in a thermos for several hours. Take 2 tbsp. l. between meals
Constipation, hemorrhoids.	Decoction	Take the same amount of material, pour 200 ml, and boil in a water bath for 10 minutes. take 1-2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day.
Colds and flu.	Alcohol tincture	Fill fresh dandelion buds completely with vodka and let it brew in a place protected from sunlight for 3 weeks. Strain and take 40 ml of tincture 2 times a day.
Atherosclerosis, burns, eczema.	Powder	Grind the dry roots into powder using a coffee grinder. Take 1 tsp 3 times a day with water.
Arthrosis, gout.	Compress	Take the tincture, soak a cloth or gauze, and apply a compress overnight to the affected area.
Bedsores, burns, non-healing wounds.	Ointment	Wash the roots and leaves well, dry, finely chop, add vegetable oil in a ratio of 1:5, let it brew for 15 days in a place protected from sunlight.

Dandelion: Use in herbal medicine

Dandelion is part of Asian, Middle Eastern, European and Native American traditional healing practices and is also used in modern phototherapy.

Historically, dandelion has had a wide range of therapeutic uses, but today's herbalists primarily use it as an appetite stimulant and for normal digestion.

The modern French name for dandelion is "pissenlit", which pretty much means "wet bed". This is because its leaves have a mild diuretic effect, helping your body remove excess water.

The healing properties of dandelion lie in almost the entire plant. Dandelion leaves can be concentrated into teas and tinctures for use in a variety of liver, kidney, and gallbladder problems.

Some studies suggest that dandelion plays a role in improving immune system function for both the stomach and overall health.

Dandelion seeds are regularly taken as a preventative measure to prevent liver health problems. They are also used to reduce acidity and inflammation in the body, as well as cleanse the blood and regenerate healthy cells.

Dandelion seeds stimulate digestion through the production of stomach acid and enzymes, which aid in the absorption of fats and oils.

What to remember

Dandelion is one of the most popular wild plants that has found wide medicinal use. Dandelion root, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which we discussed in this article, contains the largest amount of useful substances and compounds. It can be used to make a decoction, infusion, tincture or oil. The preparation recipe, as well as the method of administration, depends on what kind of disease needs to be cured. Herbal remedies from dandelion root are rich in vitamins and are useful for everyone who wants to strengthen their body.

Author of the article Victoria Fesyura : “I study traditional medicine and home cosmetology, put it into practice and share this information with readers. I wish you all good health."

Article read: 2,089

Application

You can often hear unflattering reviews about dandelion: they say it’s a weed, and a malicious one at that. While some gardeners dream of getting rid of it, others value Taraxacum as an unpretentious ornamental and/or salad crop. The benefits and harms of this plant have been known for 4 centuries. However, it is used not only for medicinal purposes.

In cosmetology, milky juice from a flower tube is valued: it helps lighten freckles. Taraxacum is widely used in cooking. Young leaves are included in salads, soups, and cold appetizers. Dandelion honey is gaining popularity. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that such a product is produced not by bees, but by people in their own kitchens. In essence, this is dandelion jam, the recipe for which is simple. Add 1 kg of sugar to the flowers boiled for two hours (400 pieces per 400-500 ml of cold water) and boil for another 7-10 minutes. The result is dandelion syrup, which stores well if it is rolled into sterile jars.

Taraxacum root is used to make healing tea. To do this, the washed roots of a 3-4 year old plant are dried, fried and poured with boiling water for several minutes. The use of a drink obtained in this way for weight loss is very popular. Traditional agriculturalists value Taraxacum for its high potassium content. To prepare dandelion fertilizer, use all parts of the plant. For 500 g of raw materials you will need 8 cups of warm water. The mixture is infused under pressure for 3 weeks, stirring every 7 days. The substance prepared in this way is filtered, diluted with water in proportions of 1:10 and used for watering and spraying plants.

Dandelion is used both for medicinal purposes and in cosmetology.

whisk

Five teeth are visible along the edge of the petal corolla, since it is formed by five petals. It’s like a tubular flower split lengthwise and unfolded. Such flowers are called true reed flowers. The dandelion basket consists of them.

Individual flowers are located on the convex bottom of the basket. The receptacle is bare, convex, pitted.

Short description

This sunny flower is one of the most common perennials on earth and has a great variety of varieties. In folk medicine, dandelion is most often used.

The long, up to half a meter, root serves for medicinal purposes and is the most valuable part of the plant. The leaves are elongated, carved, collected in a rosette. The stem is hollow inside and can grow up to 30 and sometimes up to 50 cm. On the stem there is only one inflorescence rich in pollen and smelling of honey.

In the middle zone, flowering begins in May-June, and sometimes, in stable warm weather, repeats in early autumn. In July-August the fruits ripen, and then the dandelion flowers turn into white fluffy balls. Small oblong seeds with “parachutes” attached to them are carried by the wind for many kilometers and settle almost everywhere they manage to reach.

When to collect and how to store dandelion components

During the flowering of a dandelion, its ground parts are harvested. This happens in the spring months and in the first ten days of June.

The roots should be harvested before the plant blooms: from mid-spring (from about the 20th of April until the first ten days of May) or closer to the end of August - and throughout September. Do not try to pull out the plant by its roots; the root may “sit” firmly in the ground. Dig it up with a shovel - this makes it much easier to collect dandelion roots.

Raw materials should be stored separately, without mixing leaves, roots, inflorescences together, in a well-ventilated area. Medicinal roots can retain their beneficial properties for five years. Inflorescences and leaves last up to two years.

Dandelion milk can be preserved with a small amount of vodka or alcohol for preservation.

Who should use dandelion root?

Dried dandelion roots can easily replace coffee and even chicory. At the same time, a drink made from them will be many times healthier than coffee or chicory infusion.

Speaking about what dandelion root treats, we can list many diseases. This natural substance has a rich mineral and microelement composition, which allows it to be used for various pathological conditions:

eczema, psoriasis, ulcers, some types of dermatitis (including allergic) - lotions and wipes from an aqueous decoction of dandelion root;
tuberculosis, as well as diseases of the upper respiratory tract - internal administration of a decoction of the root (possibly with the addition of other herbs);
hemorrhoids - compresses from infusion or decoction of dandelion root (possibly with the addition of a string);
constipation - internal use of infusion or decoction of the root;
gastritis with low acidity - systematically taking a water infusion of dandelion root (or a weak decoction);
inflammation of the bladder - drinking dandelion root tea;
to get rid of gallstones and remove bile - internally take a decoction of dandelion root (as a rule, this phytocomponent is part of mixed preparations);
diabetes mellitus - constant intake of dandelion root decoction (salads made from the leaves and flowers of the plant are also useful);
to increase appetite - internal use of alcohol or water infusion of dandelion root;
to increase lactation in women - tea with the addition of root;
anemia - drinking juice from fresh dandelion roots;
rheumatism - internal use of root juice and water infusion from this phytocomponent;
liver diseases (including cirrhosis) - internal use of dandelion root decoction;
for epilepsy - alcohol tincture of dandelion roots;
to remove warts and calluses - compresses made from an alcoholic infusion of dandelion roots;
to get rid of toxins - internal intake of powder from dried dandelion roots, diluted with water;
arthritis, arthrosis, rheumatism – ointment based on roots;
polyarthritis - systematic internal intake of dandelion root infusion;
for Giardia - use an aqueous infusion of crushed roots.

To treat all these diseases, there are recipes for preparing herbal remedies based on dandelion root. It is worth reading reviews about dandelion root and familiarizing yourself with the methods of its use before starting natural treatment. The same can be said about existing contraindications.

How to collect dandelion leaves?

Now, when it comes to harvesting, you probably want to get to the young leaves, which are located on the inside of the stem.

The oldest (and bitterest) leaves will always be the largest on the side closest to you. You will pick the best green dandelions from the stems that do not yet have flowers, since they are the youngest. Just cut off a clump of new leaves, making sure there are no buds yet, and put them in a bag or bag. dandelion leaves

If you think correctly, then nothing should go to waste. In early spring, before the buds begin to set, dandelion will become a special addition to the diet: in a raw salad or smoothie, for making coconut oil, butter.

(The presence of fats and oils with cooked dandelions will make their nutrients even more beneficial).

After the flowers begin to bloom, the leaves become bitter. But you can take them away for food or wine making. The flowers are added to fresh salads and to sautéed, roasted or steamed vegetables.

The long tap root of a dandelion is usually pulled out when the plant enters its second year of life. In general, the roots are collected in the summer for medicinal purposes or in the fall for grinding into chicory.

Dandelion seeds are collected throughout the year to treat the body and skin from various diseases.