It's that time of year again in New Haven. When the weather starts to warm up, the trees have begun to blossom, and flowers have sprung. The kids are back outside, and the birds are singing. You probably already started mowing your lawn, and weeds have already reared their ugly heads.
Amongst the sea of green in your back and front yard will soon appear a bright, yellow stain. Like a drop of wine on a clean white t-shirt, this yellow weed appears, taunting us. It's the dandelion. The obnoxious weed that never seems to disappear no matter how hard we try. But before we talk about how to get rid of this irritating eyesore, did you know that in many other countries, dandelion is used as a medicinal herb? It is also completely edible and extremely nutritious.
Health Benefits of Eating Dandelions
The health benefits of the dandelion are endless. Yes, dandelions are edible, and not just the flowers, the entire weed. They can be eaten cooked or raw and provide an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. The leaves can be added to salads, sandwiches, and teas for flavor. The roots are often found in coffee substitutes. Other uses for dandelions include syrup, oils, and 
wines.
Because dandelions contain a large number of minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, they have long been considered a staple in other countries. They also contain high amounts of vitamins K, A, B, C, and E and are full of antioxidants. And, unlike most vegetables, dandelions do not lose any vitamins or nutrients when fully cooked. With all of these vitamins and nutrients packed deeply inside, it's no wonder the dandelion has long been a staple at the dinner table in other countries.
The Vast Variety of Nutritional Benefits Dandelions Offer:
Reduce Cholesterol
Some of the bioactive compounds found in dandelions may lower cholesterol, which in turn decreases your risk for heart disease.
Lower Blood Pressure
People who have high blood pressure, liver disorders, and digestive issues are often given mild diuretics by their doctor. The leaves of a dandelion act as a natural diuretic and have often been used throughout history to help control one's blood pressure naturally. They also contain a lot of potassium which helps lower blood pressure.
Promote Healthy Liver
Recent studies have suggested that the polysaccharides in dandelions may help protect the liver. Many people drink dandelion tea to help relieve minor digestion issues.
Fight Cancer
Several studies have shown that leaf extract from dandelions leads to the slowing of cancer cells in the liver, colon, and pancreatic tissue. While more research is needed, this could be ground-breaking for cancer patients.
Support Healthy Digestion
The roots are believed to act as a mild laxative aiding in gastrointestinal health. While there has not been enough evidence to prove this scientifically, herbal medicine has been using dandelions to treat constipation and other digestive issues for many years. Because dandelion root is full of gut-friendly fiber, it's no wonder it improves digestion. Research has found the dandelion plant to increase Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, the two most common species used as probiotics and associated with gut health. Dandelion tea may therefore decrease bloating, gas, and general digestive discomfort.
Helping in Controlling Blood Sugar
Dandelions have been shown to help diabetic episodes, such as enhancing insulin secretion and sensitivity. In one study, using dandelion root powder significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes. More research on this is needed, but the results and outcomes so far look promising.
Support Healthy Bones
Almost every cell in the body uses calcium, including the nervous system, muscles, and heart. Your body uses it to build healthy bones and teeth and send messages through your nervous system. Without enough of it, these things may not function properly. Dandelion greens are full of calcium. They are also full of vitamin K, another factor in supporting healthy bones.
Boost Immune System
Some research indicates that dandelions may have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which could support your body’s ability to fight off infection. And in this day and age of a worldwide pandemic, who doesn't need more things to help fight off infections? As noted above, they are also full of antioxidants, which help our bodies fight off diseases including cancers, heart disease, immune deficiencies, and inflammation.
Skincare Treatment
Studies have shown that the extracts of dandelions, especially the leaf and flower extracts, may protect against dangerous UVB rays, the leading cause of skin cancer.
Stop This Obnoxious Weed From Invading Your Yard With Naturally Green
Most of us are not ready to run out and start ripping dandelions out of our lawn and eating them. Even if you are, the overabundance we have in our New Haven yards is out of control. That's why the professionals at Naturally Green provide comprehensive lawn care services that will keep your grass green and weed-free. Our pre-emergent weed control products prevent weeds such as dandelions from growing and help to slow their progression.
We also provide vegetation control and bed weed control services because any weed can get out of control and become a problem. Learn more about our lawn care service and weed control service by calling 1-203-230-9212 or contacting us now. Check us out on social media and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Want more lawn care tips and ideas? Read our other blog articles. But don't forget to contact us for weed control now.