(ThyBlackMan.com) Healthy choices are not always the obvious choices. Sometimes they are altogether unexpected. I certainly wouldn’t expect a common garden weed to bring my garden or myself any benefits. But, in the case of dandelions, they are said to offer benefit after benefit for both body and world.
About the Dandelion
Dandelions or Taraxacum officinale are a perennial plant with a yellow, centered flower. The flower can have a diameter of 1 to 2 inches. Dandelions grow abundantly in the United States and Canada. They are very tolerant to varying climates and weather conditions. (Signs of the Seasons: A Maine Phenology Program, The University of Maine Cooperative Extension)
Health benefits
The list of health benefits obtained from dandelions goes on and on (full list at Viral Creek). A few of the most impressive benefits stems from dandelions ability to act as a diuretic and thus aid in any condition where a diuretic is needed. Dandelions are loaded with vitamin A, B, C, and D. The weed also contains iron, potassium and zinc.
Although precise studies on humans are lacking, herbalists use dandelion for cleansing the liver and gallbladder. Dandelion is very present in traditional Chinese medicine as a treatment for appendicitis, inflammation, and stomach problems. Native 
Americans even used boiled dandelion to counter kidney disease, reduce swelling, and to treat skin problems (University of Maryland Medical Center, Medical Reference Guide, 2013).
Although the benefits are still being researched, the said properties are enough to make them a popular and natural medicine. Dandelions have been used to treat no less than the following:
- Diabetes. Dandelions can encourage insulin production. This effect on the pancreas helps to keep blood sugar at a healthy and low level, a critical hurdle for diabetes patients. Dandelion juice, by keeping blood sugar levels low, helps to keep the system regular, which subsequently reduces the chances of risky and dramatic jumps or dips in blood sugar.
- Acne. Dandelions can positively affect acne caused by hormonal changes and sebaceous gland issues. Dandelion juice is said to detoxify and as previously noted act as a diuretic. These two processes help to remove acne-causing toxins from the body by way of sweating and urinating.
- Jaundice. Jaundice, a liver disorder, is said to respond to treatment using dandelions. As a diuretic, they help to remove excess bile in the urine. Dandelions are also said to be both an antioxidant and a disinfectant, helping to fight the infection.
- Cancer. Saying dandelions prevent cancer, is a big statement. But, nonetheless, dandelions have been used as a component of a healthy diet to lower risk. Dandelions’ high antioxidant and vitamin C levels help to lower the free radicals present in the body.
- Constipation. Dandelions are high in dietary fiber. They are said to improve the health of the intestines. The fiber helps to keep digestion regular, which in turn could prevent more extreme gastrointestinal situations in the future.
Environmental Perks
When it comes to issues of the environment, we’ve come to realize that waste in almost any situation is bad. When it comes to resources, it’s usually considered more environmental to utilize the entirety of the product or plant, for as long as possible, while wasting as little as possible. Did you know you can find a benefit in every part of the dandelion plant? This ensures that each dandelion you pluck from its habitat is going to be used entirely to benefit your health, while sparing the environment.
- Root. Use the dandelion root for detoxification of both the liver and gallbladder.
- Leaves. Dandelion leaves are delicious! They also provide the diuretic properties. They also stimulate appetite and aid in healthy digestion.
- Flower. Dandelion flowers are said to act as an antioxidant.
- Sap (found in the stem). Dandelion milk, because it is alkaline, has been used to treat some skin disorders such as ringworm and eczema.
As with any medicine or alternative diet, consult your physician or nutritionist before treatment or diet changes.
Staff Writer; Greg James