Dandelions (More Than A Weed)

I have always been a supporter of natural supplements and nutrition..even more so now. All of us are different and at different stages of dealing with our cancer diagnosis. For me, my liver was the first place the cancer traveled. Dandelion leaves and tea are part of my diet. A simple weed that you can consume from flower to root is packed with vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains folate and vitamin E. The polyphenols can significantly reduce inflammation. It has a large amount of iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. It has high levels of antioxidants such as beta-carotene and polyphenols..both which protect against cell damage and oxidative stress. Dandelion helps to detoxify the liver and stimulates bile production. It will aid in detoxifying the liver from chemical build-up from pharmecutical drugs/treatment. All parts of the plant are edible and are used in different ways...teas, salad..etc. The leaves can be brewed into a tea which can stimulate excretion and increase urine flow, pulling excessive fluid from edematous tissues. It has been found to work wonders in reducing the swelling of joints due to arthritis and gout. The roots can improve digestion and act as a mild laxative and rellieve constipation and fullness. It has beent  found to boost the production of healthy gut bacteria as well. I buy the leaves from my local co-op just as you would any salad leaf. The bigger leaves are bitter and the smaller one have a milder flavor. I like the bitter for the potential "punch" of goodness it packs. I take the bunch and tear into pieces just like lettuce for a salad. I make a dressing of fresh squeezed orange juice, balsamic and olive oil. I drench the whole bowl in it and put it in the fridge. I can eat a handful like that everyday and sometimes will add grapes or walnuts for extra flavor and nutrition. The benefits of this "weed" are worth eating every day to me. I hope this information is useful to someone and wish everyone the best in treatment and better health....hugs, M