Benefits of Fresh Dandelion Root & Leaf

Hundreds of years before they were known as being a nuisance to homeowners everywhere, dandelions were used for their medicinal properties. While the public's perspective of this yellow-flowering weed has changed through generations, its healing properties remain. Dandelions are a source of iron, potassium and zinc and contain vitamins A, B, C and D, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Much of the plant's medicinal value lies within its roots and leaves.

Benefits of Dandelion Leaves

• Consult a health care provider before using dandelions for medicinal purposes.

  Dandelion leaves are used as a diuretic, meaning that they increase urine and remove toxins from the body. Diuretics can be useful for women suffering from bloating caused from PMS or from those with a urinary tract infection. Dandelion leaves are beneficial for the kidneys. Dandelion leaves may be sprinkled onto salads, soups or made into a tea.

Benefits of Dandelion Roots

• Dandelions can grow up to one foot tall.

  Dandelion roots have antiviral properties, are beneficial to the liver and are used as an appetite stimulant or as a laxative. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, health care providers clinically "use dandelion root to promote liver detoxification." Dandelion root is also used to treat fevers and inflammation.

Traditional Uses of Dandelions in Other Cultures

• The flowers of dandelions may be used to make wine.

  According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the root and leaves of dandelions were used by Native Americans to treat liver conditions, kidney disease, skin conditions, upset stomach and heartburn. Dandelions have been used by the Chinese to treat appendicitis and upset stomach, while in Europe the plant has been used for fever, boils, diarrhea and diabetes.