The Functions and Benefits of Dandelion
As a typical representative of both food and medicine, dandelion not only adorns the spring days with its light and elegant posture but also contains rich medicinal value. From the "Tang Materia Medica" to modern pharmacological research, this composite plant has always held an important position in the field of traditional Chinese medicine. Its roots, leaves, and flowers can all be used as medicine, forming a unique medicinal system.
Analysis of the Core Medicinal Value of Dandelion
Natural Heat-clearing and Detoxifying Remedy
Modern pharmacology has confirmed that the chicory acid and chlorogenic acid abundant in dandelion can significantly inhibit inflammatory factors. For cases of eye redness and pain caused by excessive liver fire, taking 15g of dried dandelion with chrysanthemum decoction for three consecutive days can see improvement. Clinical data show that its extract has an antibacterial rate of 82% in the purulent stage of acute mastitis.
Beauty and Skin Care Active Ingredients
The vitamin C content in the leaves is seven times that of apples, and the β-carotene content exceeds that of carrots by 20%. Crushing fresh leaves and applying externally can relieve eczema itching. Mixing it with aloe vera gel in a 1:2 ratio to make a mask and using it three times a week can improve acne redness. It is recommended for sensitive skin to do a local test first.
Immune Regulation Mechanism
Research by the Hanyang University in South Korea found that dandelion polysaccharides can enhance macrophage activity by 37%. For daily use, 3g of dried dandelion can be mixed with wolfberry for tea, but cancer patients should follow medical advice and combine with regular treatment, as it cannot replace medication.
Broad-spectrum Antimicrobial Properties
The dandelion sterol it contains has an inhibition rate of 91.2% on Staphylococcus aureus, and the aqueous extract has an inhibitory diameter of 12.3mm on Candida albicans. External use method: Crush the fresh product to extract juice and dilute it with warm water in a 1:5 ratio, and rinse the mouth three times a day to improve oral ulcers.
When developing and utilizing, it should be noted that the daily intake of fresh dandelion should not exceed 50g, and those with a yang deficiency and external cold constitution should use it cautiously. It is recommended to harvest according to the season - leaves in spring and roots in autumn. Through scientific compounding and standardized use, this "queen of medicinal herbs" will continue to contribute to human health.