Who would have thought the humble dandelion could have such amazing qualities spiritual, emotional and physical, and what’s more charming than a plant that gives you wishes when you puff its fluff!
The name Dandelion actually comes from a French word and means “lion’s tooth” Its often considered as a bit of a pest and a weed, but to others it holds beautiful meaning. The floral meaning of the dandelion is that it is a gift to a loved one that will provide happiness, simple joy, pure love and is a promise to a partner of total faithfulness
The vibrant yellow colour when its in flower is connected to intelligence, communication, vibrancy, radiance, healing, clarity, and is associated with a quick wit and alertness of thought.
When in its “puffball” state it very cleverly spreads hundreds of seeds with just the faintest of breeze. This mode of transportation is really quite ingenious, with the seeds feathery heads and the sheer magnitude of seed spread can carry up to five miles!
I personally love the fact that Dandelions are a tough flower, even when trodden on they have the strength to spring back to life, a lovely life message of “be strong no matter what happens, get up and shine bright”
Nutritionally, the dandelion has amazing health benefits and has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. The leaves are perfect to add to any salad, they contain vast amounts of Vitamin C, four times the amount of Vitamin A as spinach and almost as much iron alongside other minerals, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and sodium.
Dandelion acts as a mild laxative that promotes digestion, stimulates appetite, and balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines. It can increase the release of stomach acid and bile to aid digestion, especially of fats.
This weed-like superfood is a diuretic that helps the kidneys clear out waste, salt, and excess water by increasing urine production, it inhibits microbial growth in the urinary system too. Dandelion also replaces some of the potassium lost in the process. Helping the skin by improving the natural cleansing function of the kidneys and digestive tract without adding stress to those organs is the basis for many detoxification programs.
Dandelion has been shown to improve liver and gallbladder function by removing toxins and reestablishing hydration and electrolyte balance. It also increases the release of bile and relieves constipation without being harsh on the stomach which is going to help prevent toxic over load in the body supporting the clarity of the skin.
Every part of the dandelion plant is rich in antioxidants that prevent free-radical damage to cells and DNA, slowing down the aging process. It is rich. The vitamin C and vitamin A as beta-carotene are some of my top age prevention vitamins which are vital for skin regeneration.
Dandelions also supply the body with skin-friendly Vitamin K, folate, and choline. These vitamins play a vital role in healthy skin and tissue, Vitamin K supporting blood capillaries, great for dark circles and skin healing. Naturally rich in potassium, a mineral we normally lose in urine. How did Nature know to load this great natural diuretic with extra potassium? As a vegetable diuretic, dandelion leaf remedies provide a healthy increase in potassium. Dandelion leaf also is used to reduce water retention and puffiness in skin tissues making this great for eye bags.
Dandelion teas are readily available from health food stores, perfect for calming nerves and general well-being. Dandelion roots (thoroughly washed!) infused in hot water and then strained make an excellent tonic, because the dandelion is a natural detox booster, body-cleanser and diuretic. One to consider when you have been over indulging and need to support your body to detox.
The leaves make a free alternative to spinach, Kale or salad leaves and can also be added to your smoothies and juices. Or why not try turning into a delicious pesto.
© Abigail James . All rights reserved clinic@abigailjames.com . site credits
. privacy policy