10 Surprising Health Benefits of Dandelions You Never Knew!

When dandelions come to mind, you might instantly think of the hours you’ve spent trying to keep them from growing in your yard. But while you were desperately searching for a way to keep them from popping up in your green grass, you were missing out on the numerous health benefits they have to offer!

Dandelions haven’t traditionally been used as medicine, but their health benefits include providing relief from liver disorders, acne, jaundice, anemia and even cancer. Dandelions are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron and calcium. They can also help maintain bone health and be used in your skin care routine. Here’s how:

1. Bone Health

Dandelions are rich in calcium, which is essential for bones to grow healthy and strong. They’re also rich in antioxidants that protect bones from age-related damage, such as Vitamin C and Luteolin, which has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.

2. Liver Disorders

The antioxidants in dandelions help keep the liver functioning properly, and even help treat hemorrhaging in the liver. Dandelions also aid in maintaining bile flow, which promotes digestion and liver health.

3. Diabetes

Dandelion juice has been shown to help diabetic patients by stimulating the production of insulin in the pancreas. Dandelions are diuretic, so they increase urination in diabetic patients to remove excess sugar from the body and keep blood sugar levels where they need to be. They also help to remove sugar deposition in the kidneys, maintaining a consistently lower blood sugar and a regulated insulin system.

4. Urinary Disorders

The diuretic properties of dandelions help to eliminate the build-up of toxic substances in the kidneys and the urinary tract. They also work to inhibit the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract, helping to prevent and heal urinary problems.

5. Skin Care

Dandelion sap (or milk) can be used to treat skin diseases that are a result of microbial and fungal infections. The sap is highly alkaline and boasts germicidal, insecticidal and fungicidal properties that can be used on itches, ringworm, eczema and other skin conditions. Be careful to avoid any contact with your eyes.

6. Acne

The juice of a dandelion is a great natural treatment for acne. It can help regulate proper secretion of hormones and widen the pores to allow toxins to flow out of the skin through sweat. Dandelion sap can be externally applied to affected areas to inhibit microbial infection and reduce inflammation.

7. Cancer

The antioxidants in dandelions — Vitamin C and Luteolin — help to reduce the free radicals in the body that can cause cancer through cell damage. They also help to detoxify the body to protect it from developing tumors and health problems. Many studies have shown that dandelions may slow cancer’s growth and even prevent it from spreading.

8. Constipation

The high levels of dietary fiber in dandelions are beneficial for improving digestion and promoting intestinal health. Dietary fiber helps regulate healthy bowel movements and reduces the chance of constipation and diarrhea.

9. Anemia

The iron, vitamins and protein content in dandelions make them a good source of protection against anemia. The Vitamin B they contain is an essential part of red blood cell formation, which is important for those who are anemic.

10. High Blood Pressure

As discussed, dandelion juice increases urination thanks to its natural diuretic properties, and those diuretic properties can also be an effective way of lowering blood pressure. The fiber in dandelions also helps to reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure, while the high potassium content works to lower blood pressure by replacing sodium in the body.