Dandelion

A plant that you are guaranteed to encounter during walks or in your garden is the dandelion. And chances are, if your dog has a habit of eating grass, they’ve probably tried nibbling on this plant as well.

We humans often regard these yellow flowers as little more than weeds. Unless you have a rabbit or guinea pig, you probably know that little furry friends love to nibble on these hard-to-get rid of plants. But can dogs also eat dandelions? And if so, are they healthy? Of course!

Dandelion leaves are not only good for your dog; they are also an excellent ingredient in dog food. Not only are dandelion leaves a natural source of vitamins A, C, K, D and B, but they also contain protein and important minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, zinc and manganese. Compared to broccoli, dandelion leaves have 3 times more calcium, 3 times more iron, 15 times more vitamin A and 3 times more vitamin E.

1. Liver detox:

Dandelion leaves contain substances that support the liver in eliminating waste products and toxins from the body. In addition, the polysaccharides in the plant stimulate the liver to produce more bile, which facilitates digestion.

2. Diabetes:

Certain substances in dandelion leaf tea can stimulate the production of insulin in the pancreas, which can lead to a decrease in blood sugar levels. Because of this, dandelion is seen as a natural support for controlling diabetes and its associated consequences.

3. Liver and kidney support:

Dandelion strengthens liver function, but also accelerates the breakdown of waste products by the liver, which puts more strain on the kidneys when removing water-soluble waste products. What makes dandelion unique is that it is a natural diuretic that stimulates the kidneys. This filters and removes excess fluid, sodium, uric acid and waste products, without significant potassium loss and without adverse effects on the kidneys.

4. Hay fever:

Dandelion is a natural antihistamine. With hay fever, too much histamine is released, leading to itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose. Dandelion not only supports the liver in the breakdown of excess histamine and the waste products released, but also reduces the general histamine level in the body. In addition, dandelion has anti-inflammatory properties, which contributes to soothing hay fever complaints in general.

5. Joint pain:

Did you know that dandelions are very beneficial plants for reducing joint pain and sore muscles? The anti-inflammatory properties of dandelions have been proven effective in treating arthritis, gout, relieving sore muscles and reducing joint pain. Arnica helps reduce inflammatory pain when applied topically.