Dandelion is one of the most healing herbs in our region and all of its parts can be used as cures.
Its young leaves are a good spring detoxification salad i.e. a rich source of vitamin A. The stems of this plant improve the functioning of the gallbladder, regulate the metabolism i.e. cleanse the blood and stomach. Folk medicine recommends them as a cure for diabetes.
The dandelion root is the most healing part. It detoxifies the liver and supports the overall health of the organism and drinking a tea made from the root, can heal hepatitis B in only 6 weeks.
Its flowers: contain antioxidants, remove pain, heal stomach cramps, lower depression, contain helenin which improves night sight and contain vitamin A and B12.
In our region, the dandelion flowers are often used for the preparation of the praised syrup against cough. But, for example, in the Korean fold medicine, the flowers are also used for healing ulcers, infections, tuberculosis, edema and for better circulation.
In America, the oil from dandelion flowers is especially praised and popular for its healing abilities for problems with arthritis and gout, swollen breasts, anxiety and joint ache. Although, in our regions this oil is rarely made, it is good to have it since it has a strong relaxing and analegetic effect.
The oil is especially effective for women diseases, such as preventing and curing breast diseases, cysts, carcinoma, swelling and breastfeeding problem. Without any harm, it eases pain, problems with arthritic joints, back pain, sinuses, stiff neck and skin imperfections. The flowers have a special effect on the breasts. Regular use of the dandelion oil deeply relaxes the breast tissue and helps in the releasing of repressed feelings. If regularly applied to the breasts, it can give a better sensation of well being and it will also strengthen the immunity and will help in the prevention of breast cancer.
Breast pain or sensitivity before periods; cysts, fibroids and mastopathy are very spread diseases, from which, more and more number of women suffer all around the world. As one of the main culprits for the appearance of these benign diseases is the bigger stress that we are exposed to, every day. Pain in the breast often causes cysts- bags filled with liquid which during the menstrual cycle changes shape and size. They are mainly soft, gentle and movable when touched, but if they are very full of water, then they may be firmer when you touch them. When the oil from the dandelion flowers is combined with oil from dandelion root it can help with smaller infections, ease swollen milk glands and lower the number of breast cysts. The flowers of dandelion contain lecithin whose topical application helps with diseases such as psoriasis. The oil from dandelion flowers can be used for body massage and for lowering of the tension of the entire body. It is also good for treating cats since it is mild and does not contain salicylates which can harm them.
Recipe
You will need:
Dandelion flowers, quality cold-pressed oil (almond, apricot, macadamia, olive, sesame or grape seed oil)
Fill half to two thirds of a smaller jar with dandelion flowers. Sip the oil over the flowers to the top so it entirely covers them. Mix the mixture so that air bubbles appear. Put gauze on the top of the jar and fasten it. Leave the jar on a warm place for two weeks until the flowers become brown. Afterwards, strain the oil in a sterilized dark bottle. Keep it in a dark, cold place.
Quick recipe for dandelion flower oil
If two weeks are very long for you, you can prepare the oil in another way. Fill two thirds of the jar with the flowers and cover it with the chosen oil to the top. Put the flowers and oil in a vessel with double bottom and heat it slowly on the lowest temperature around 30 to 60 minutes. The oil must not be too hot since you do not want the flowers to boil. The longer you are able to heat the oil on the lowest temperature, the stronger the medicine. Sip the mixture back into the jar and leave it for one day in a warm place and then strain it. Although, this is a quicker recipe, it is recommendable to prepare it more slowly.
USE: When the oil is ready, massage the painful spots, several times per day.