2024 Author: Gavin MacAdam | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 13:38
For centuries, dandelion has been considered a dauntingly beautiful weed, but a medicinal plant that helped restore beauty and health. All parts of it are actively used in herbal medicine. What is special about plant roots?
Surprisingly, every part of this medicinal weed is edible and healthy, from flowers and seeds to roots. Most of all useful substances, according to naturopaths, are contained in the roots. They are rich sources of vitamins A, B, C, D, iron, zinc, potassium, etc. All these substances have a good effect on the health of the liver and the entire digestive system.
When to collect?
If dandelions are harvested for salads and jams in spring and early summer, then for harvesting roots for medicinal purposes it is better to wait for autumn. It is recommended to harvest them at the end of September-October and after heavy rain (so that the roots can be easily removed from the ground). The longer the root system, the more it was able to collect nutrients. Collecting dandelion in the fall is also beneficial in that the inulin levels will be higher and the fructose levels lower. But the spring roots of the flower are filled with taraxacin, a substance that stimulates the production of bile and activates the functions of the liver.
Where to look?
In addition to the season, it is important to pay attention to the place where the dandelion is harvested. This is best done on sunny lawns, hillocks or meadows. They should be away from highways and contaminated areas and not be touched by chemicals. It is worth choosing the healthiest flowers with a dense high stem. To do this, you can use a special corneder or garden mini-pitchfork. You need to pull out the root carefully so as not to damage it - the medicinal properties are hidden in the precious juice inside the roots. After being released from the ground, they are carefully shaken off the soil, washed and dried.
How to prepare and store?
Dandelion roots can be used fresh frozen for both culinary and medicinal purposes. But if you want to save part of your crop for future use, then the roots need to be deprived of moisture. If your home has a dehydrator, you should cut the peeled roots into strips of equal size and dry them until brittle.
Alternatively, you can wrap each whole root with a long piece of rope or rope to hang in a cool, dry place with good ventilation (such as an attic). They should dry out within a few days to a state of fragility. After that, they are crushed into small pieces and placed in a glass jar, in which they can be stored for up to one year. When dried properly, the outer root flesh will be dark in color, while the inner flesh should be creamy white.
How to use?
There are several ways to use the dandelion root crop. Here are some of the best:
1. Tincture
It is a fast acting alcohol-based herbal medicine. It has anti-inflammatory, diuretic properties. The tincture is good for cleansing the blood, liver, spleen and gall bladder. Herbalists use it to improve overall health, regulate blood sugar, reduce stress, eliminate age spots and skin problems such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
About 100-120 g of fresh (or dry) dandelion roots are poured into 500 ml of vodka. The solution is left for six weeks in a dark place, shaking the container occasionally. After that, the tincture is filtered and then stored in a glass container in a cool dark place. It is recommended to take a few drops with water or tea, or use it externally, as a skin lotion.
2. Tea
This is one of the most common uses for dandelion. It is high in antioxidants that help balance blood sugar levels and aid digestion. Tea acts as a natural diuretic and mild laxative, cleanses the liver, prevents increases in body mass index, and more. To do this, about 30 g of dry plant roots and 60 g of fresh ones are poured into 500 ml of water, brought to a boil and cooked for about 20 minutes. At the end, filter and drink with the addition of honey.
3. Coffee
Roasted Dandelion Root is a great alternative to caffeine. It can be combined with roasted chicory root for a deep, slightly bitter taste. Cinnamon can be added to the drink if desired. Four cups of water, two tablespoons of toasted dandelion root, two tablespoons of chopped chicory root, and one cinnamon stick should be placed in a bowl and put on fire. Bring the solution to a boil, cook for 5 minutes. After the coffee is filtered and drunk with milk or cream.
Who are contraindicated for?
Dandelion is generally considered a harmless plant. However, it is best to consult your doctor before taking any herbal remedies. Dandelion-based medicines should be treated with extreme caution:
- people who are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemum, calendula, yarrow, chamomile, aster or iodine;
- those who, after taking dandelion products, experience symptoms of heartburn or skin irritation;
- pregnant and breastfeeding women;
- those who have gallstones, biliary obstruction, stomach ulcers, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome;
- people taking potassium supplements, blood thinners, and medicines to treat infections.
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