Everyone has known this plant since childhood, but few people know what kind of power lies in it. Since time immemorial, it has been called the elixir of life, and to our contemporaries it is better known as a weed.
The benefits of dandelion are so multifaceted that they serve as an excuse for including it in the family diet. Moreover, the roots, stem, leaves, flowers - everything is useful in a dandelion!
However, unlike ordinary people, scientists in the minds of medicine did not ignore this extraordinary plant. Many dandelion-derived medicines are sold in pharmacies to help those suffering from atherosclerosis, liver cirrhosis, hypoacid gastritis, edema, cholecystitis, hypokalemia and many other ailments. It is impossible to list everything. That's why they are scientists, to study everything, even the ubiquitous weed - dandelion. The benefits and harms of medicines based on it are determined by the doctor. And if you just diversify your dining table with such a plant, you can forget about diseases.
For the full and obvious benefits of dandelion, do not pick flowers in the city, along the roads or near any industrial production.
Salt will help get rid of bitterness. Before using for food, hold the dandelion leaves in strongly salted water for about half an hour, and for the same purpose, the roots can be boiled in a saline solution for about 7 minutes.
Dandelion salad
The benefits of this dish are invaluable, and listing the vitamin and mineral composition could take several pages of printed text. Not only is the salad healthy, it's also delicious!
Try mixing sauerkraut, chopped boiled egg, chopped dandelion leaves, green onion feathers, parsley, and dill in the proportions you like best. Mix everything with sour cream, let stand for five minutes and then gobble up to your health!
Puree 
Soak dandelion leaves in a strong saline solution for half an hour. Then grind them with a blender or meat grinder. Add vinegar and salt to taste. This dandelion puree should be kept cool and used as a dressing for soups, meat and fish dishes.
Refreshing smoothie
Dandelion benefits can be used in drinks too. Mix a glass of kefir with half a glass of fresh milk, add four finely chopped dandelion leaves and a couple of flower heads, chopped kernels and four walnuts. Beat the mixture for three minutes. 
Morning curd
This breakfast strengthens the immune system well. For a serving of cottage cheese for one person, add yellow petals from two dandelions, a teaspoon of honey, sour cream, or milk to taste.
Cucumber salad
Cut two fresh cucumbers into cubes, add chopped herbs and a couple of dandelion leaves to them, salt and season with sour cream.
Contraindications
The benefits of dandelion are so beneficial that there is no ban on its use. And yet everything is good in moderation. Any excess does not lead to good. Include dandelion in your diet, experiment and be healthy!
Dandelion honey is a truly unique product. On the territory of our country, quite a few people consider dandelion exclusively as a pretty weed that grows almost anywhere. But in fact, in fact, dandelion is a medicinal plant, the benefits of which for the body are invaluable, because this flower contains many vitamins and elements necessary for human health. Therefore, daily consumption of one teaspoon of dandelion honey will be an excellent support for the body. But since honey is still a very controversial product, dandelion honey has both benefits and harms, so before introducing it into your diet, you must fully study its properties.
Dandelion honey composition
It should be noted right away that dandelion honey can be both natural and artificial. Natural honey is, of course, honey collected by bees. Usually, in addition to dandelions, such honey contains nectars and other plants. Artificial honey or, as it is also called, dandelion jam. It is prepared from dandelion flowers, sugar and lemon juice. At the same time, what is most important, dandelion retains its beneficial properties during heat treatment. So artificial dandelion honey has the same benefits as natural honey. And the calorie content of products, in principle, will be almost identical, despite the absence of cane sugar in natural honey.
Useful properties and contraindications of dandelion honey
Dandelion tea - benefits and harms
Herbal drinks are popular with many people, they often have a pleasant aroma, unusual taste and help to solve some health problems. The benefits and dangers of dandelion tea have been known for many years, we will talk about this drink today.
Benefits of Dandelion Flower Tea
This plant contains tannins, choline, organic acids, resins, fats, proteins and inulin. The last substance is a natural probiotic, which is used to normalize metabolic processes in the body, the benefit of dandelion tea is that, using it, you can restore metabolism, and this will help you lose extra pounds without harm to health. Tannins, resins and organic acids help improve the digestive process, they can help get rid of diarrhea, but it is worth remembering that the drink should not be included in your diet for those who suffer from constipation.
The beneficial properties of dandelion tea are that it helps to eliminate anemia and even helps fight atherosclerosis, as it contains iron and potassium, which are necessary to increase hemoglobin levels and strengthen blood vessels. Experts claim that the drink lowers cholesterol levels, 
therefore, it is incredibly useful for men over 50 years old, it is they who often suffer from a similar problem.
The presence of vitamin C makes this tea an indispensable remedy for getting rid of colds and flu, it can also be drunk as a preventive measure.
It is worth remembering that experts do not recommend drinking more than 6 tsp. of this tea per day, otherwise stomach problems may arise, as the drink increases the acidity of the gastric juice. It is also contraindicated for those who have allergic reactions to dandelion infusion.
Dandelion jam, its benefits and harms
Dandelion known since ancient times, it is one of the most popular flowers used in cooking. Read more about the medicinal properties and contraindications of dandelion in a separate issue. Almost all parts of the plant, leaves, flower tops and roots, are added to various dishes and also used for therapeutic purposes. For example, dandelion jam Is not only a tasty delicacy, but also a healthy product. It is ideal as a sweet and vitamin medicine involved in disease prevention and health promotion. Why is dandelion jam so useful? Useful and medicinal properties of dandelion jam
First of all, dandelion jam - hypoallergenic product... That is why it is recommended for those who are allergic to honey. The healthy alternative serves as a healing alternative and acts as a treat to fight colds and bronchial coughs.
Just one spoonful of jam can soothe a suffocating cough and induce an expectorant process. Dandelion jam can also help prevent other cold symptoms such as fever or chills. Thanks to the presence vitamin C, the virus leaves the body almost instantly.
The aromatic dessert has significant benefits for the following symptoms:
- restores damaged liver cells;
- relieves cholecystitis;
- helps to fight urolithiasis and gout;
- enhances the choleretic effect;
- neutralizes increased acidity;
- has hypoglycemic properties;
- removes excess water and toxins from the body;
- improves metabolic processes;
- fights free radicals - the root cause of cancer.
This is still an incomplete list of diseases that jam from this sunny flower can fight.
Harm and contraindications
Chemical composition
How is it used for weight loss
Application in healthy and curative nutrition
The benefits of this jam are much higher when used with other foods. The sweet dessert is especially beneficial when mixed in equal portions with lemon slices or a spoonful of honey. In winter, it is also useful to wash down the jam with simple drinks prepared with various herbs such as mint, chamomile or lemon balm. Finally, jam will be especially tasty and healthy if you drink it with a cup of green tea. This method will allow you to cope with chronic fatigue much faster.
How to make delicious dandelion jam
Step-by-step recipe with a photo of making dandelion jam
Dandelion Jam Recipe Video
How to use the product
Product storage features
In the spring, small and bright suns - dandelions - open up in the fields and meadows of the whole country. We most often do not pay any attention to them and pass by. But in fact, dandelions are amazingly healthy plants that have a lot of medicinal qualities. The flowers themselves, and their foliage and roots are used for medicinal purposes. In addition, dandelions are used as food and make wonderful cosmetics from them. Bright flowers can be used to create a delicious and healthy dessert. Let's talk about how dandelion honey is prepared, give a proven recipe, clarify what benefits and harms a person can get from using it. Homemade dandelion honey turns out to be thick, it is colored in attractive golden tones. Such a product is easy and simple to prepare at home, as well as dandelion jam.
How to make dandelion honey on your own?
Procurement of raw materials
Making dandelion honey directly
The second recipe for getting honey from dandelions
Another recipe for dandelion honey
Dandelion honey - benefits and harms
The benefits of dandelion honey
Dandelion flowers have many beneficial qualities, because they contain a lot of vitamins, minerals and other valuable components. Honey made from them at home can contribute to the healing of the body and the treatment of many pathological conditions. Healers advise taking it to treat liver ailments and gallbladder problems. Such a product will help to cope with urolithiasis, bronchial asthma and bronchitis. Homemade dandelion honey contributes to the treatment of arthritis, osteochondrosis, scurvy and chronic constipation.
Eating dandelion honey helps to improve the functioning of many internal organs, represented by the liver, gallbladder, lungs and heart muscles. Such a product remarkably speeds up the recovery process after various diseases and surgical interventions.
Dandelion honey has strong antibacterial properties. Healers claim that such a product also has a good analgesic effect. In addition, such sweetness remarkably strengthens the immune system, since it contains ascorbic acid and many other useful substances.
Is dandelion honey dangerous, can it be harmful?
Dandelion honey has a minimum of contraindications. Such a product should not be eaten by those who suffer from diabetes mellitus. Also, you can not eat it and with allergic intolerance.
Do not get carried away with dandelion honey if you suffer from ulcerative lesions of the stomach or duodenum, as well as from acute gastritis. When eaten in large quantities, such a product has a pronounced irritating effect on the mucous membranes.
Ecology of Cognition: Dandelion herb has long been a common addition to the daily diet. Almost all parts of the plant are used - leaves, flowers and roots. Dandelion has found application not only in cooking, but also as a medicine ...
For a long time, dandelion herb has been a common addition to the daily diet. Almost all parts of the plant are used - leaves, flowers and roots. Dandelion has found application not only in cooking, but also as a medicine for various ailments. Botanists attribute it to the Asteraceae family, the genus Taraxacum, and the scientific name of this plant is Taraxacum officinale.
It is also called the Irish daisy. Dandelion is believed to have spread from Central Asia. It now grows in various parts of the world with temperate and subtropical climates. Like sage, dandelion is rich in vitamin K, but its benefits are not limited to that.
The dandelion has a long and sturdy taproot, its dark green leaves are long and serrated and grow straight out of the soil like rays.
The golden yellow flowers appear in late spring on hollow stalks filled with fragrant nectar that attracts bees. Pedicels, like leaves, grow directly from the ground. An adult plant reaches 45 centimeters in height. Almost all parts of the plant secrete a white "milky sap".
Dandelion root
The fusiform dandelion root is strong and fleshy. Outside, it is dark brown, and its flesh is white and resembles sweet potatoes (yams, yams) in appearance. It contains bitter "milky juice" in a more concentrated form than the stem and leaves. The roots as a whole are the foundation that will give the plant the opportunity to move into the second year of its life. Dandelion roots are harvested in summer (for medical needs) or in autumn (in order to dry, and then add crushed to coffee).
Dandelion Health Benefits
Fresh dandelion greens, flowers and roots contain valuable constituents known for their antioxidant properties, as well as their ability to prevent disease and promote health.
Fresh leaves are very low in calories and contain only 45 kilocalories per 100 grams. They are also a good source of dietary fiber (approximately 9% of the RDA per 100 grams). In addition, its "milky juice" is a good laxative. These qualities of the plant make it a weight loss and cholesterol control agent.
Dandelion root, like other parts of this plant, contains the bitter crystalline compound taraxacin, as well as the pungent resin taraxacerin, a colorless crystalline compound of C8H16O, according to Wordnik. The root of the plant also contains the polysaccharide inulin (which should not be confused with insulin) and levulin. Together, these compounds are the basis for the various therapeutic qualities of dandelion.
Fresh dandelion herb contains 10,161 IU of vitamin A per 100 grams, which is 338% of the RDA. Dandelion is one of the richest sources of vitamin A among culinary herbs. Vitamin A is an important fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant that is required to maintain healthy mucous membranes, skin and vision.
Dandelion leaves are loaded with numerous health-promoting flavonoids such as beta carotene, alpha carotene, lutein, cryptoxanthin, and zeaxanthin. Eating natural foods rich in vitamin A and flavonoids (carotenes) helps protect the body against lung and oral cancers. Zeaxanthin has light filtering properties, protecting the retina from ultraviolet rays.
Dandelion herb is a good source of minerals such as potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Potassium is an important constituent of cell and body fluids that helps regulate heart rate and blood pressure. Iron is essential for the formation of red blood cells. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor in an antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase.
Dandelion is also rich in many vital vitamins, including folate, riboflavin, pyridoxine, niacin, vitamins E and C, which are essential for maintaining health. Vitamin C is a powerful natural antioxidant. Dandelion greens contain 58% of the RDA for vitamin C.
Dandelion is one of the richest herbal sources of vitamin K, providing approximately 650% of the recommended intake. Vitamin K is thought to play a role in the formation of bone mass by maintaining osteotropic activity in them. Its role in the treatment of patients with Alzheimer's disease has also been established. It reduces the damage done to the neurons in the brain.
Dandelion selection, storage and handling
Sometimes fresh dandelions are harvested from the wild. But it is better to give preference to those plants that are collected specifically for medical and culinary needs.
Fresh, juicy and soft leaves should be preferred. Fresh leaves have a better flavor and are rich in many vital vitamins and antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamin C and folate. Store the leaves in food-grade plastic bags in vegetable drawers in the refrigerator.
Fresh dandelion leaves and flowers are used in cooking. Pre-washed greens are blanched in boiling water for a minute, and then quickly cooled by placing in cold water. Blanching helps reduce bitterness.
The use of dandelion in medicine
Almost all parts of a dandelion have found use in both traditional and modern medicine. The main compounds contained in it have laxative and diuretic properties.
Dandelion is also a good tonic and appetite stimulant. This herb is for patients with dyspepsia when the intestines and stomach are not functioning normally.
The outer covering of the stems is used for burns and allergic skin reactions such as nettles.
Warning
Since dandelion contains a certain amount of bitterness, it can only be consumed by healthy people without any contraindications to the compounds contained in this plant. Dandelion can cause potassium toxicity in patients treated with potassium-sparing diuretics. Dandelion herb can also cause allergic contact dermatitis in some sensitive people.
Dandelion nutritional value
The percentage of the daily intake is shown in parentheses. Nutritional information based on 100 grams of dandelion greens as reported by the USDA at Nutrition And You.
General information:
energy value - 45 kilocalories (2%);
carbohydrates - 9.20 grams (7%);
protein - 2.70 grams (5%);
fat - 0.70 grams (3%);
fiber in food - 3.50 grams (9%).
Vitamins:
Folic acid (vitamin B9) 27 micrograms (7%)
nicotinic acid (vitamin B3) - 0.806 milligrams (5%);
pantothenic acid - 0.084 milligrams (1.5%);
pyridoxine (vitamin B6) - 0.251 milligrams (19%);
riboflavin (vitamin B2) - 0.260 milligram (20%);
thiamin (vitamin B1) - 0.190 milligrams (17%);
vitamin A - 10161 international units (IU, IU) - 338%;
vitamin C - 35 milligrams (58%);
Vitamin E - 3.44 milligrams (23 percent DV)
vitamin K - 778.4 micrograms (649%);
Electrolytes:
sodium - 76 milligrams (5%);
potassium - 397 milligrams (8%).
Minerals:
calcium - 187 milligrams (19%);
iron - 3.10 milligrams (39%);
magnesium - 36 milligrams (9%);
manganese - 0.342 milligrams (15%);
phosphorus - 66 milligrams (9%);
selenium - 0.5 milligrams (1%);
zinc - 0.41 milligrams (4%).
Phytonutrients:
alpha-carotene (α-carotene) 363 micrograms;
beta-carotene (ß-carotene), which is rich in carrots - 5854 micrograms;
beta-cryptoxanthin (ß-cryptoxanthin) 121 micrograms;
lutein-zeaxanthin - 13,610 micrograms. published
_________________________________________________________________________ For a long time, dandelion herb has been a common addition to the daily diet. Almost all parts of the plant are used - leaves, flowers and roots. Dandelion has found application not only in cooking, but also as a medicine for various ailments. Botanists attribute it to the Asteraceae family, the genus Taraxacum, and the scientific name of this plant is Taraxacum officinale. It is also called the Irish daisy. Dandelion is believed to have spread from Central Asia. It now grows in various parts of the world with temperate and subtropical climates. Like sage, dandelion is rich in vitamin K, but its benefits are not limited to that. _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Dandelion has a long and strong taproot, its dark green leaves are long and serrated and grow straight out of the soil like rays.
The golden yellow flowers appear in late spring on hollow stalks filled with fragrant nectar that attracts bees. Pedicels, like leaves, grow directly from the ground. An adult plant reaches 45 centimeters in height. Almost all parts of the plant secrete a white "milky sap". _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Dandelion root ______________________________
The fusiform dandelion root is strong and fleshy. Outside, it is dark brown, and its flesh is white and resembles sweet potatoes (yams, yams) in appearance. It contains bitter "milky juice" in a more concentrated form than the stem and leaves. The roots as a whole are the foundation that will give the plant the opportunity to move into the second year of its life. Dandelion roots are harvested in the summer (for medical needs) or in the fall (in order to dry, and then add crushed to coffee).
Dandelion Health Benefits ______________________________
Fresh dandelion greens, flowers and roots contain valuable constituents known for their antioxidant properties, as well as their ability to prevent disease and promote health.
Fresh leaves are very low in calories and contain only 45 kilocalories per 100 grams. They are also a good source of dietary fiber (approximately 9% of the RDA per 100 grams). In addition, its "milky juice" is a good laxative. These qualities of the plant make it a weight loss and cholesterol control agent.
Dandelion root, like other parts of this plant, contains the bitter crystalline compound taraxacin, as well as the pungent resin taraxacerin, a colorless crystalline compound of C8H16O, according to Wordnik. The root of the plant also contains the polysaccharide inulin (which should not be confused with insulin) and levulin. Together, these compounds are the basis for the various therapeutic qualities of dandelion.
Fresh dandelion herb contains 10,161 IU of vitamin A per 100 grams, which is 338% of the RDA. Dandelion is one of the richest sources of vitamin A among culinary herbs. Vitamin A is an important fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant that is required to maintain healthy mucous membranes, skin and vision.
Dandelion leaves are loaded with numerous health-promoting flavonoids such as beta carotene, alpha carotene, lutein, cryptoxanthin, and zeaxanthin. Eating natural foods rich in vitamin A and flavonoids (carotenes) helps protect the body against lung and oral cancers. Zeaxanthin has light filtering properties, protecting the retina from ultraviolet rays.
Dandelion herb is a good source of minerals such as potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Potassium is an important constituent of cell and body fluids that helps regulate heart rate and blood pressure. Iron is essential for the formation of red blood cells. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor in an antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase.
Dandelion is also rich in many vital vitamins, including folate, riboflavin, pyridoxine, niacin, vitamins E and C, which are essential for maintaining health. Vitamin C is a powerful natural antioxidant. Dandelion greens contain 58% of the RDA for vitamin C.
Dandelion is one of the richest herbal sources of vitamin K, providing approximately 650% of the recommended intake. Vitamin K is thought to play a role in the formation of bone mass by maintaining osteotropic activity in them. Its role in the treatment of patients with Alzheimer's disease has also been established. It reduces the damage done to the neurons in the brain.
Selection, storage and processing of dandelions ______________________________
Sometimes fresh dandelions are harvested from the wild. But it is better to give preference to those plants that are collected specifically for medical and culinary needs.
Fresh, juicy and soft leaves should be preferred. Fresh leaves have a better flavor and are rich in many vital vitamins and antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamin C and folate. Store the leaves in food-grade plastic bags in vegetable drawers in the refrigerator.
Fresh dandelion leaves and flowers are used in cooking. Pre-washed greens are blanched in boiling water for a minute, and then quickly cooled by placing in cold water. Blanching helps reduce bitterness.
The use of dandelion in medicine ______________________________
Almost all parts of a dandelion have found use in both traditional and modern medicine. The main compounds contained in it have laxative and diuretic properties.
Dandelion is also a good tonic and appetite stimulant. This herb is for patients with dyspepsia when the intestines and stomach are not functioning normally.
The outer covering of the stems is used for burns and allergic skin reactions such as nettles.
Caution ______________________________
Since dandelion contains a certain amount of bitterness, it can only be consumed by healthy people without any contraindications to the compounds contained in this plant. Dandelion can cause potassium toxicity in patients treated with potassium-sparing diuretics. Dandelion herb can also cause allergic contact dermatitis in some sensitive people.
Dandelion nutritional value ______________________________
The percentage of the daily intake is shown in parentheses. Nutritional information based on 100 grams of dandelion greens as reported by the USDA at Nutrition And You.
General information ______________________________
energy value - 45 kilocalories (2%);
carbohydrates - 9.20 grams (7%);
protein - 2.70 grams (5%);
fat - 0.70 grams (3%);
fiber in food - 3.50 grams (9%).
Vitamins ______________________________
Folic acid (vitamin B9) 27 micrograms (7%)
nicotinic acid (vitamin B3) - 0.806 milligrams (5%);
pantothenic acid - 0.084 milligrams (1.5%);
pyridoxine (vitamin B6) - 0.251 milligrams (19%);
riboflavin (vitamin B2) - 0.260 milligram (20%);
thiamin (vitamin B1) - 0.190 milligrams (17%);
vitamin A - 10161 international units (IU, IU) - 338%;
vitamin C - 35 milligrams (58%);
Vitamin E - 3.44 milligrams (23 percent DV)
vitamin K - 778.4 micrograms (649%);
Electrolytes ______________________________
sodium - 76 milligrams (5%);
potassium - 397 milligrams (8%).
Minerals ______________________________
calcium - 187 milligrams (19%);
iron - 3.10 milligrams (39%);
magnesium - 36 milligrams (9%);
manganese - 0.342 milligrams (15%);
phosphorus - 66 milligrams (9%);
selenium - 0.5 milligrams (1%);
zinc - 0.41 milligrams (4%).
Phytonutrients ______________________________
alpha-carotene (α-carotene) 363 micrograms;
beta-carotene (ß-carotene), which is rich in carrots - 5854 micrograms;
beta-cryptoxanthin (ß-cryptoxanthin) 121 micrograms;
lutein-zeaxanthin - 13,610 micrograms. _________________________________________________________________________ Dandelion - MEDIUM STRIP GINSENG _________________________________________________________________________ Herbalists sometimes call dandelion middle stripe ginseng, and as a medicinal plant, a simple and familiar dandelion is introduced into all pharmacopoeias of the world. _________________________________________________________________________ 
_________________________________________________________________________ With diabetes. ______________________________
1 teaspoon of finely chopped root is brewed like tea in one glass of boiling water, infused for 20 minutes, cooled and taken in a quarter glass 3-4 times a day.
With oncological diseases. ______________________________
Hold 100 g of young dandelion leaves in cold salted water for half an hour, chop and mix with 50 g of finely chopped green onions and 25 g of parsley, season with vegetable oils, sprinkle with dill. It is also useful for spring fatigue.
With cystitis, kidney inflammation. ______________________________
Grate dandelion root. Take a small amount (at the tip of a knife) half an hour before meals, 2 times a day.
With heart disease. ______________________________
Take dry ground dandelion root (on the tip of a knife) 2-3 times a day with half a glass of water.
Slimming. ______________________________
2 tbsp. fresh spoons or 1 tbsp. pour a spoonful of dry crushed dandelion leaves with a glass of boiling water, leave for 6-8 hours in a thermos. Strain the infusion in the morning and drink in small sips throughout the day.
For skin whitening. ______________________________
All parts of the plant secrete milky sap. They are smeared with age spots, freckles, warts, dry calluses, snake and bee bites.
Boil 2 tbsp. spoons of dandelion flowers in 0.5 l of water 30 min. over low heat, strain. Wipe your face with the resulting broth in the morning and evening. _________________________________________________________________________
The beneficial properties of dandelion have long been known to folk healers in different countries. They use all the parts of this plant. Dandelion is valuable because it contains many natural vitamins that are easily absorbed by the human body. It is recommended to use the leaves and roots of this herb in early spring, when the body is especially in need of trace elements and essential compounds that have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the internal secretion organs. Dandelion is used not only as a general tonic for high physical and mental stress, hypovitaminosis, but it is also recommended as a medicine for diseases of the joints, liver and bile ducts.
Why the plant is useful
How useful dandelion is, doctors have known for a long time. The medicinal properties of the plant are well studied and described in the scientific literature. The unique combination of active substances in the milk juice has a strongly pronounced choleretic and antispasmodic effect. Dandelion preparations have the following properties:
- antivirus;
- anticarcinogenic;
- antipyretic;
- expectorant
- laxative;
- sleeping pills;
- anthelminthic;
- anti-tuberculosis;
- fungicidal.
The root and ground part of this plant contains a large amount of nutrients. Found in them:
- Taraxacin, which affects the qualitative composition of the synovial fluid located inside the articular capsule and intended for nourishing the cartilage tissue. This alkaloid is favorably perceived by liver cells and helps to cleanse them of toxins.
- A large amount of vitamins and minerals in the composition in optimal proportions.
- Inulin, which allows the plant to be used in the fight against diabetes mellitus.
- Vital linoleic and oleic acids involved in all processes of the endocrine system.
- Melissic acid, which has a mild hypnotic and sedative effect.
- Mucus, bitterness and tar, stimulating the outflow of bile and giving an antispasmodic effect.
- Natural dyes related to carotenoids that act as antioxidants.
- Taraxol, providing expectorant properties.
- Arnidol, which helps relieve bruising pain and prevent subcutaneous hemorrhage.
To preserve the medicinal properties of dandelion, you need to follow the rules for collecting and drying this plant. The roots will be useful only if they are dug up in early spring or late autumn, when the optimal amount of nutrients has been accumulated in their composition. Flowers are harvested during the day, when they are open, in dry weather, so that there is no moisture on the baskets. Dandelion leaves, the beneficial properties of which are highest during the flowering period, are cut as they grow back, removing the yellow and rotted stems.
The herb is dried in a well-ventilated area and then stored in dry glass jars. The roots are washed, cleaned from the ground and dried at 40 degrees in the oven or on the stove. They can be ground in a meat grinder, the resulting mass is spread in a thin layer on a baking sheet and quickly dried in the oven. With this technology, it is necessary to ensure that fresh raw materials do not form lumps and dry evenly. To do this, it is constantly stirred as the top layer dries. Whole roots are considered ready for storage if they break easily, and ground roots if they do not form into a ball. Finished products are stored in glass jars for no more than 5 years.
What preparations are made from a plant
Dandelion root can be eaten raw for pain and heaviness in the abdomen caused by digestive disorders. This can only be done in early spring or late autumn, when the root has built up a dense mass and has accumulated a lot of nutrients.
The root is dug out of the ground, washed in several waters, wiped dry, and the top layer is scraped off with a knife. Then it is either eaten as root vegetables, or grated and the resulting mass is eaten. In order for the biologically active substances that the root contains to start working, you need to wash down the chewed mass with cold water. The improvement of the condition occurs quickly due to biologically active substances that help to reduce the pathological processes observed in colitis. In the summer, to achieve a therapeutic effect, you can brew tea from the dried leaves of the plant.
At home, several dosage forms are prepared from the plant, which can be used as a biologically active food supplement or as an independent dish. The herb is added to any tea intended for the treatment of various diseases.
Dandelion jam is a common homemade product used in moderate doses as a stimulant for the organs of internal secretion. It can be added to tea to saturate the body with trace elements and bitterness, which stabilize all processes in the body.
Tea made from dry raw materials (roots and leaves) improves digestion. It is recommended for mothers feeding babies with breast milk, and with a decrease in immunity.
The decoction of the roots (tea) contains a large amount of alkaloids, ether compounds, mucus and bitterness, has a strong choleretic and antispasmodic effect.
Root coffee contains a lot of inulin. Roasted and ground dandelion roots have a bitter taste and, after consumption, have a choleretic effect that improves liver function.
Dried Dandelion Root Powder can be eaten dry in small portions with cold water, or can be brewed like tea. This will help you quickly recover from a serious illness and improve your condition with gout and rheumatism.
What harm can the herb do to the body?
The health benefits of dandelion, when abused, can be detrimental to health. Even dandelion tea should not be consumed for a long time. When using any medicinal form, one should take into account the fact that the plant is a strong choleretic agent that cannot be taken for a long time.
Dandelion decoctions, infusions and tea deplete liver cells, expelling toxins from it. Preparations from this plant should be taken in limited quantities to prevent overdose. In large doses, dandelion preparations cause vomiting, diarrhea and cardiac disturbances. With gallstone disease, preparations from this plant can exacerbate the disease and cause acute pancreatitis. Individual intolerance and allergic reactions are a complete contraindication to the use of this plant.
The composition and calorie content of dandelion flowers. What useful properties do they have, can they be harmful. The use of the plant in cooking - salads, jam, wine.
The content of the article:
Dandelion (Latin Taraxacum) is a perennial plant from the Asteraceae family, which is currently one of the most widespread crops. In our country, it grows wild everywhere and is perceived as a weed, and in Western Europe it is often grown to decorate lawns as an alternative to a boring lawn. The unpretentiousness of the flower makes this "landscape design" simple and economical. However, the decorative property is not the main value of the culture. Even in ancient times, they knew about its healing properties, and therefore they used it for food and prepared medicines based on the plant. Today, dandelion dishes, unfortunately, are considered exotic - medicinal flowers are destroyed like a weed, and you can get not only healthy dishes from them, but also delicious ones. Mainly in cooking, they are used fresh for preparing salads, and dry as an original seasoning, but also wonderful jam and wine are made from dandelion.
The composition and calorie content of dandelion flowers
Dandelion flowers are a low-calorie product, which means that even those who want to lose weight can use it to diversify and improve the menu.
The calorie content of dandelion flowers per 100 grams is only 45 kcal, of which:
- Proteins - 2.7 g;
- Fat - 0.7 g;
- Carbohydrates - 6.7 g;
- Water - 85.6 g;
- Ash - 1.8 g;
- Dietary fiber - 3.5 g.
Minerals per 100 g:
- Potassium - 397 mg;
- Calcium - 187 mg;
- Magnesium - 36 mg;
- Sodium - 76 mg;
- Phosphorus - 66 mg;
- Iron - 3.1 mg;
- Manganese - 0.34 mg;
- Copper - 0.17 mcg;
- Selenium - 0.5 mcg;
- Zinc - 0.41 mg.
- Vitamin A, RE - 508 mcg;
- Beta carotene - 5854 mg;
- Vitamin B1 - 0.19 mg;
- Vitamin B2 - 0.36 mg;
- Vitamin B4 - 35.3 mg;
- Vitamin B5 - 0.08 mg;
- Vitamin B6 - 0.25 mg;
- Vitamin B9 - 27 mcg;
- Vitamin C - 35 mg;
- Vitamin E - 3.44 mcg;
- Vitamin K - 778.4 mcg;
- Vitamin PP, NE - 0.81 mg.
- Unsaturated - 0.17 g;
- Saturated - 0.01 g.
Useful properties of dandelion flowers
Dandelion as a medicinal plant was used in their practice by the healers of Ancient Rome and Egypt, even Avicenna himself. Each part of the plant had its own specific characteristics: the roots were used to improve vision, the leaves were used to treat diseases of the skin, joints and bones, and the flowers were considered an excellent tonic. However, today it is known that the useful properties of culture are much broader.
Let's see what the benefits of dandelion flowers are:
- Strengthening immunity... The unique composition of the product helps to fight vitamin and mineral imbalances, thereby increasing the body's resistance to various infections. As for colds, dandelion flowers can not only act as a prophylactic agent, but also really alleviate the condition during illness, as they have antipyretic and expectorant properties.
- Improving vision... If you carefully read the composition of the plant, you could not fail to notice the record content of beta-carotene, which means that the product is indispensable for maintaining good vision and healthy retina. Its regular use in old age is especially important in order to avoid the development of cataracts, glaucoma and other ophthalmic diseases typical for people of retirement age. By the way, beta-carotene also has a beneficial effect on skin, hair and nails.
- Decreased blood sugar... For diabetics, the introduction of dandelion flowers into the diet is especially recommended, since they are most effective in lowering blood sugar levels.
- Prevention and treatment of joint diseases... Both folk and official medicine recommends introducing dandelion flowers into the diet if there are problems with joints. The product has been proven to act as a chondroprotective agent. This means that it helps in the regeneration of cartilage tissue. In addition, it has an analgesic effect, which is also important for people suffering from joint diseases.
- Beneficial effect on the liver... The product helps the liver, removes toxins, heavy metals, aggressive components of strong medicines. As a result, this important organ does not have to function under stress, which significantly reduces the likelihood of developing inflammatory processes of one nature or another in it.
- Improving the work of the cardiovascular system... Another important property of dandelion flowers is the strengthening of the heart and blood vessels. The product well cleans blood vessels from excess cholesterol and various toxins, thereby preventing the development of thrombosis, atherosclerosis and acute heart failure. Dandelion flowers are also recommended for hypertensive patients, as they help to reduce blood pressure.
- Prevention of the development of oncology... The aforementioned beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant, but it is not the only antioxidant in the product. This fact means that dandelion flowers can give a serious rebuff to free radicals - special molecules in the body, which, when in excess, become the main cause of the formation of abnormal molecular bonds, leading to oncology and early aging.
- Beneficial effect on the nervous system... The product has the correct tonic effect, which means that it invigorates, but does not excite the nervous system, but, on the contrary, puts the nerves in order, soothes. In addition, it helps to normalize sleep, especially if insomnia is caused by anxious thoughts.
- Brain activation... Dandelion flowers stimulate brain activity well, improve concentration and, with prolonged use, strengthen memory.
- Diuretic and choleretic effect... This property makes a huge contribution to the correct water exchange in the body. Dandelion flowers, therefore, are an excellent prevention of edema, gallbladder diseases, infections of the genitourinary system.
Contraindications and harm of dandelion flowers
However, despite such an impressive range of beneficial properties, not everyone is destined to experience the healing power of dandelion flowers on themselves. The fact is that this product, like any other, has contraindications.
- Suffering from severe diseases of the digestive system. In the presence of mild gastrointestinal dysfunction, this product is useful, but if there is a serious illness, such as, say, an ulcer, strong biological substances contained in it can have an irritating effect on the vulnerable mucous membrane and only aggravate the situation.
- With heart disease. The tonic effect in this case can lead to unpredictable results.
- With blockage of the biliary tract. And here a choleretic effect can play a disservice, provoking the movement of stones and causing an attack.
It should also be said that no one can abuse dandelion flowers, otherwise unpleasant symptoms from the gastrointestinal tract in the form of diarrhea and vomiting may occur.
| Is prohibited | Carefully | Rules for everyone |
| For diseases of the digestive system | Pregnant and lactating | Do not combine with alcohol |
| For diseases of the biliary tract | Younger children | Do not overeat |
| If you have heart ailments | Allergy sufferers | Do not combine with smoking |
Another important rule is that you cannot combine the use of food and drinks from dandelion flowers with bad habits. The fact is that nicotine and alcoholic beverages get along very badly with beta-carotene, which, as we said above, the plant contains a record amount.
Note! If you have diseases that we did not talk about above, before introducing the inflorescences into the diet, just in case, consult with your doctor about the benefits and harms of dandelion flowers in order to avoid negative consequences.
Dandelion Flower Recipes
In cooking, as well as in folk medicine, dandelion flowers have been used since ancient times, and all over the world - in the West, and in China, and on the American continent, and, of course, in Russia.
Today, using dandelion in the kitchen is a rare practice, but now that you know how useful this product is, you simply have to try experimenting with it in preparing various dishes. Of course, flowers are best complemented by fresh salads, increasing their benefits and giving original notes. But they can also be added to soups and hot dishes as a seasoning and even make desserts from them.
Let's take a look at a few uses in dandelion flower recipes:
- Dandelion Green Salad... Disassemble dandelion flowers (20 pieces) into petals and rinse thoroughly, let dry. Rinse and finely chop the lettuce leaves (30 grams) - lettuce crops with low bitterness are best, as dandelion petals will add it anyway. Prepare a dressing: mix vegetable oil (3 tablespoons) with lemon juice (2 tablespoons). Mix the ingredients, season the salad, salt and stir if desired. The dish can be eaten.
- Egg salad with original dressing... Take the flowers and young leaves of the plant (1 handful each), onion feathers (3-4 pieces) - rinse all the greens thoroughly, having previously disassembled the flowers into petals. Cut a cucumber (1 piece) into thin strips, chop the garlic (1 clove). Mix all ingredients. Prepare a dressing: Combine apple cider vinegar (3 tablespoons) with sugar (1/2 teaspoon), mustard (1 teaspoon), a pinch of salt and black pepper. Gradually start adding olive oil (4 tablespoons) while whisking the dressing. Pour the salad with the resulting sauce, mix, top with an egg cut into 4 parts (1 piece).
- Dandelion jam... Soak 400 dandelion flowers in water overnight, drain the water in the morning, rinse them again. Put the flowers in a saucepan, cover with clean cold water (1 liter), add coarsely chopped lemon, turn on the fire. When the water boils, turn off the fire, leave the "infusion" for 2-3 hours. After this time, strain the syrup, flowers and lemons are no longer needed. Add sugar (1 kg) to the syrup, put on the stove, cook for 40 minutes. If it doesn't thicken enough, cook longer. The consistency should be viscous honey, this, by the way, is one of the reasons why dandelion jam is also called honey.
Note! To get rid of the bitterness, the flowers must be soaked in salt water. However, keep in mind that the bitterness in the plant is very beneficial, so think twice if it is worth doing.
Dandelion Flower Drink Recipes
Dandelion flowers can be used to prepare not only dishes, but also drinks - healthy infusions and surprisingly light wine, which is very popular in England. And the famous Ray Bradbury even immortalized it in the title of one of his works - a book about the carefree childhood of two brothers is called Dandelion Wine.
Let's figure out how to make this wine and how to properly brew flower infusions:
- Dandelion Wine... Collect the flowers (liter jar) and put them in water overnight, rinse in the morning, dry and sprinkle with sugar (0.5 kg). For 2-3 days they will give juice, at this moment you need to add cold water (1 glass) and leave to "ferment" for another three days, then strain. Squeeze out the juice of oranges (2 pieces) and lemons (2 pieces), pour into the infusion, also add raisins (1.5 cups). Pour the future wine into a three-liter jar, add cold water to the neck and cover with gauze or a rubber glove with a hole in your finger. When fermentation is over, carefully pour the wine over the bottles so as not to stir up the sediment. After 3-6 months, you can drink it.
- ... Pour a tablespoon of dried or fresh petals into a glass, pour boiling water (200 ml). Cover the broth with a lid and let it brew for 10-15 minutes. You can drink it on your own, adding honey for sweetness, or you can add a little to regular tea.
Note! If you are going to prepare meals and / or drinks from dandelion, you must follow the rules for collecting the plant. Firstly, this must be done in an ecologically clean area. Secondly, an important point is playing the season - it is best to hold the collection in spring and autumn. Third, it is important that the weather is dry. And, of course, it is necessary to evaluate the quality of raw materials - do not pick damaged flowers.
The name of the flower in our country comes from the verb "blow". Thus, with the name of the plant, our ancestors wanted to emphasize its feature of overgrowing after flowering with weightless seeds, which easily fly away from the slightest breath.
The plant contains rubber, in some varieties its content reaches 14%. At the moment, work is underway in the United States to create rubber from the milky sap of a flower.
In China, dandelion is called a vegetable because its flowers and leaves are often used in salads and other dishes.
They are very fond of dandelion in Italy, dishes from it are even served in restaurants as gourmet. In addition, a saying was born in this country: "If you eat a dandelion, the disease passes by your house."
The plant was actively eaten by the first settlers of the American continent, and the British invented dandelion wine in ancient times.
In the Caucasus, you can find varieties of dandelion with purple flowers.
Watch a video about dandelion flowers:
Dandelion flowers are an amazing product. In our country, the plant is treated like a weed and is fiercely exterminated, but it turns out that it is extremely useful and helps to significantly improve the body. So the next time you think about destroying a humble flower, think about whether it is better to prepare it for the winter, and not throw it away. However, this decision to use dandelion flowers will only be correct if your property is located far from the pistes and is not exposed to certain pollutants. In addition, before consuming the plant for food, make sure that you are not subject to the contraindications of the product.
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