The Taraxacum Officinale or the 'Official remedy for disorders' is the name given to the commonplace dandelion. This plant is very commonly found in many parts across the world, but not many know of its wonderful health benefits. The dandelion is often considered just a beautiful flowering plant. But this plant is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs by Chinese traditional medicine practitioners.

Nutrient Rich Food Supplement

The dandelion is replete with nutrients of many kinds that make it the ideal food supplement. The leaves of this plant contain significant amounts of vitamins A, C, D and B complex. Minerals like zinc, potassium, iron, magnesium, choline, copper, silicon and boron are also present in this plant. Other than these, eudesmanolide and germacranolide are found only in the dandelion plant.

Helps Rectify Liver Disorders

The presence of eudesmanolide and germacranolide make the dandelion an effective remedy for digestive and liver dysfunction. Its anti oxidants boost the functioning of the liver and ensure that proper flow of bile is maintained even in older people whose liver functions are impaired due to advancing age. Dandelion is used effectively to treat liver haemorrhage and to stimulate the liver's role in the body's digestive processes.

Several problems that arise from poor liver function may be treated effectively using dandelions. These include headaches, constipation, gout, skin eruptions and fatigue. In addition, it can help limit the adverse effects of different therapeutic drugs on the liver.

Promotes Clear Skin

Dandelion has been used since times immemorial to treat various skin problems. In fact, this is one of the effective cures for age spots. The sap of the plant, also called dandelion milk, is applied to the skin to remove blemishes, get rid of infections and to treat problems such as eczema. The sap is alkaline and also has germicidal and fungicidal properties. As the plant is an excellent diuretic and detoxifies the body, it is also used to cure severe cases of acne.

Builds Bone Health

Impaired bone strength is a common problem faced by many older people. Most often, the cause of this impairment is insufficient calcium intake. Dandelion is rich in calcium and also has anti oxidants like vitamin C and Luteolin. These substances are helpful in preserving bone strength in older people.

Safe Weight Reduction

For those elderly people who want a safe way to reduce excess weight, dandelions provide the perfect solution. The plant's diuretic properties ensure that excess water is not retained in the body, making this a good remedy for bloating. This plant cuts the heaviness of fatty foods and thus reduces gas build up within the body. By improving digestion, dandelion also ensures that fats are broken down properly during the digestive process thus cutting down any increase in fat reserves.

The roots of the dandelion are taken in dried and powdered form while the leaves may be eaten raw or cooked along with food. Most often, dandelion leaves are added raw to salads. An extract or tea made from the leaves is also used quite commonly. The seeds are roasted and used to make a decoction that takes the place of coffee for health conscious individuals.