Dandelion Root

The dandelion flower, although usually dismissed as a stubborn lawn weed, has been used for thousands of years as herbal teas or supplements due to its variety of health benefits. All parts of the plant, from the flower to the leaves and root can be used in herbal teas, tinctures and as a food supplement. Dandelion root tea is particularly good in promoting liver health, manage blood sugar level as well as aiding in digestion and has a wealth of other benefits. It can be taken as a herbal tea, or used to cook and ingested as a whole. The root of the dandelion is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, a type of soluble fibre found in plants that supports the growth and maintenance of healthy gut bacteria in your digestive tract. Packed with a wealth of potent antioxidants and polyphenols, these compounds aid neutralization of free radicals, molecules that are a product of normal metabolism but contribute to chronic disease risk if levels get too high in your body. The anti-oxidant, beta carotene is particularly helpful against cell damage and oxidative stress. Dandelion root is also effective for blood sugar management as it contains two bioactive compounds, chicoric and chlorogenic. Studies have also support its effectiveness against heart disease by decreasing triglyceride and cholesterol levels. The root also has a diuretic effect – used to rid the body of excess fluids and detoxify certain organs.