Health Benefits Of Dandelion

Who would have known that those pesky yellow flowers that we spent our childhood picking have amazing benefits for our health and skin? From anti-inflammatory to anti-oxidant properties, is dandelion the key to healthy, glowing skin? 

In addition to making you look great, dandelions regulate blood sugar, high blood pressure and cholesterol. 

Our GraceAllure Vitamin C Serum with Dandelion Extract brightens, reduces fine lines, treats dark spots on the face and leaves skin soft and supple. Plus, it’s suitable for all skin types. 

What is dandelion?

When used for health benefits, it is commonly the root or extract of the yellow flower that is used but, almost all parts of the dandelion can be used for different treatments. For centuries, dandelions have been used to treat an array of physical ailments: cancer, acne, liver disease and digestive disorders.

Health benefits of dandelion

1. Anti-inflammatory: Dandelion is effective at reducing inflammation that is caused by disease from the presence of different bioactive compounds like polyphenols, within the plant. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to illness. Eventually, excessive inflammation in the body can lead to permanent damage to the tissues and DNA.

2. Repair Skin damage: Research shows that dandelion may help protect the skin from sun damage. Ultraviolet (UV) light causes significant damage to the skin and facilitates premature skin aging. A 2015 study found that dandelion could reduce the impact of one type of UV light. Protecting the skin from UV damage can make a person look younger and protect from future skin damage.

3. Blood pressure: Traditional herbal medicine uses dandelion for its diuretic effect, believing that this will detoxify organs. In Western medicine, diuretics are used to rid the body of excess fluid, leading to lowered blood pressure. Dandelion contains potassium, a mineral that is associated with lowered blood pressure in those with prior elevated levels. The fiber in dandelion also helps reduce cholesterol, thereby lowering blood pressure too.
   
   
4. Cancer prevention: One test-tube study revealed reduced growth of cancerous cells that were treated with dandelion leaf extract. But, extracts from the dandelion’s flower and root did not lead to the same results. Another study found that dandelion root has the ability to drastically slow the growth of cancer cells in the liver, colon and pancreatic tissue. The root was also found to induce apoptosis or the death of cancer cells as well as enhancing the effects of chemotherapy.
   
   
5. Aiding digestion: Dandelion can be used as a remedy for constipation and other digestive issues. An animal study showed that dandelion increased gastric motility, the rate that food passes through the stomach, by as much as 37 percent. Dandelion also helps with mineral absorption and soothes the lining of the stomach.
   
   
6. Acne treatment: Acne is commonly caused by changes to the hormones. During hormonal fluctuations, the sebaceous glands secrete extra oil. When that is mixed with dead skin, the pores get blocked which prevents toxic substances from escaping. That blockage causes infections that create acne. The detoxing nature and diuretic abilities of dandelion help regulate hormones that cause acne.

7. Providing antioxidants: Antioxidants work to neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals in the air. Free radicals contribute to accelerated aging of the skin and the progression of certain diseases. Dandelions contain beta-carotene, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Dandelion’s flower is also full of another type of antioxidant called polyphenol. Antioxidants lead to beautiful, healthy, glowing skin.
   
   
8. Liver detox: Dandelion is often consumed as a tonic with the thought that it can cleanse the liver. There is some evidence that supports this claim. A 2010 study found that mice fed dandelion root extract experienced a slowing in the progression of liver scarring compared to the mice that were given a placebo.
   
   
9. Helping weight loss: The claim that dandelion can help with weight loss is based on the plant’s ability to improve carbohydrate metabolism and reduce fat absorption.
   
   
10. Anti-aging: As we mentioned, dandelions are high in antioxidants. This prevents aging by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition to nourishing the skin, the herb helps tone and firm up skin that is sagging and unbalanced.

Whether you use it on your skin in serum, in a tea, or any other form, it’s clear to see that dandelion has an ample amount of benefits to help you live your healthiest life. Dandelions are chock full of nutrients and can be a healthy addition to a person’s diet, supplements and skin care routine.