In 2010, the year I got married, I started to develop acne. Not regular acne but large, cystic, under the skin kind of acne that lasts for a long time. That same year, my dermatologist decided it would be wise to go ahead and try Accutane. Accutane is an oral medication which has caused some controversy in the past so I was hesitant to try it. The dermatologist managed to talk me into it and I went ahead and did one round of it. It dried me up significantly to the point that I was carrying around a huge tub of Vaseline everywhere to moisturize my lips and eyelids!!! Anyway, it did clear up my acne but caused a whole other set of problems. My liver had become damaged and that combined with a few other medications I was taking caused my hormones to go way out of whack! Then I started to get stressed out because of the fact that the acne came back, which caused me to start gaining a lot of weight, especially around my mid section and continuing to throw my hormones out of whack. Finally, I decided to go on a cleanse that was provided to me by my naturopath to get all of the toxins out of my body and start with a clean canvas for my new healthier lifestyle. The cleanse was simple and made me feel so much better! I even lost a few pounds doing it (comment below if you'd like details on the detox).
I then started to do my research on how to balance my hormones as I knew that was a large part of my problem. I came upon dandelion and the health benefits so decided to give the tea a try since it was organic and natural so it couldn't hurt. I've been drinking it for a month and a half and my acne has cleared up, I've lost quite a bit of weight and am no longer bloated. I feel 100% better than I have in a long time! Below is a list of benefits of dandelion (root and leaf).
Benefits
Folk medicine claims the dandelion plant is a powerful healer, used to purify the blood, settle digestion and prevent piles and gall stones, among other maladies. The fact is the greens of the humble dandelion provide 535 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin K, which may be the most important source of any other plant-based food to strengthen bones, but may also play a role in fighting Alzheimer's disease by limiting neuron damage in the brain.
Dandelion greens also give the body 112 percent of the daily minimum requirement of vitamin A as an antioxidant carotenoid, which is particularly good for the skin, mucus membranes and vision. A flavonoid called zeaxanthin protects the retina from UV rays, while others, primarily carotene, lutein, and cryptoxanthin, protect the body from lung and mouth cancers.
Need more benefits? Dandelion greens are high in fiber, which helps your body shed waste. These greens also contain vitamins C and B6, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, iron (crucial for generating red blood cells), potassium (to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure), and manganese. Other nutrients present in dandelion greens include folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper.
As if that weren't enough, here are more benefits of dandelion.
Digestive Aid – Dandelion acts as a mild laxative that promotes digestion, stimulates appetite, and balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
Kidney – This weed-like super food is a diuretic that helps the kidneys clear out waste, salt, and excess water. This inhibits microbial growth in the urinary system too.
Liver – Dandelion has been shown to improve liver function by removing toxins and reestablishing hydration and electrolyte balance.
Antioxidants – Every part of the dandelion plant is rich in antioxidants that prevent free-radical damage to cells and DNA, slowing down the aging process in our cells.
Cancer – Dandelion acts against cancer to slow its growth and prevent its spread. The leaves are especially rich in the antioxidants and phytonutrients that combat cancer.
Diabetes – Recent animal studies show promise that dandelion helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels.
High Blood Pressure – As a diuretic dandelion increases urination which then lowers blood pressure. The fiber and potassium in dandelion also regulate blood pressure.
Cholesterol – Animal studies have shown that dandelion lowers and control cholesterol levels.
Gallbladder – Dandelion increases bile production and reduces inflammation to help with gallbladder problems and blockages.
Inflammation – Dandelion contains essential fatty acids and phytonutrients that reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can relieve pain and swelling.
Immune System – Animal studies also show that dandelion boosts immune function and fights off microbes and fungi.
Stay tuned for more posts on beneficial herbs and teas.
References:
http://www.sunwarrior.com/news/11-health-benefits-of-dandelion-and-dandelion-root/#sthash.pTOzdp1Y.dpuf
http://foodfacts.mercola.com/dandelion-greens.html
Disclaimer
I am not a medical professional and the opinions expressed are those of my own experiences as well as research that I've done. Before taking any herbal supplements, always contact a medical professional.
