Wild vegetables grow everywhere in Vietnam, but are a "miracle drug" for health.

Here are some health benefits of dandelion:

Very nutritious

Dandelion leaves can be eaten raw or cooked and are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate, and small amounts of other B vitamins. Dandelion leaves provide several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Dandelion root is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, a soluble fiber found in plants that supports the growth and maintenance of healthy gut bacteria in the digestive tract.

Dandelion roots are often dried and made into tea, but you can also eat the whole root like other root vegetables.

From roots to flowers, dandelions are nutritious plants packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber (Photo: Shutterstock).

Contains powerful antioxidants

According to Healthline , dandelion contains powerful antioxidants, which may explain many of its medicinal properties.

Dandelions contain high levels of the antioxidant beta-carotene, which may protect against cell damage and oxidative stress. They are also rich in another type of antioxidant called polyphenols, which are found primarily in the flowers but also in the roots, leaves, and stems.

May help fight inflammation

Dandelion may reduce inflammation thanks to compounds like polyphenols.

Inflammation is the immune system's natural response to injury or infection. However, prolonged inflammation can cause permanent damage to the body's tissues and DNA.

Several test-tube studies have noted significant reductions in inflammatory markers in cells treated with dandelion extract. A study in mice found that a dandelion drop reduced oxidative stress and had heart-protective effects. However, human studies are needed.

May aid in blood sugar control

Chicoric and chlorogenic acids are two bioactive compounds in dandelion that may help lower blood sugar levels.

Test-tube and animal studies show that these compounds can improve the secretion of insulin — a hormone that regulates blood sugar — and the uptake of glucose (sugar) in muscles. This improves insulin sensitivity and reduces blood sugar levels.

Chicoric and chlorogenic acids may also limit the digestion of starchy, high-carbohydrate foods, which may contribute to dandelion's hypoglycemic potential.

Although these results are promising, more research in humans is needed.

May reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels

Some polyphenols in dandelion, such as flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, may have cholesterol- and triglyceride-lowering properties. Another review notes that dandelion may have heart-protective effects, including lowering cholesterol levels.

However, current research is limited to test-tube and animal studies, and human studies are needed.

May lower blood pressure

Although some people claim that dandelion may lower blood pressure, research is limited.

In Western medicine, diuretics are used to remove excess fluid from the body, which can help lower blood pressure. An older human study found dandelion to be an effective diuretic. However, this study was short and involved only 17 people.

Dandelions also contain potassium, a mineral that has been linked to lower blood pressure in people with pre-existing high blood pressure. Therefore, the plant may indirectly affect blood pressure due to its potassium content.

May promote liver health

Several animal studies have shown that dandelion extract may protect against liver damage and disease. One animal study found that dandelion root extract helped prevent liver damage in mice with liver failure caused by agents.

Other animal studies have shown that dandelion extract can reduce excess fat stored in the liver and protect against oxidative stress. However, human studies are needed.

May have anti-cancer effects

Perhaps one of the most compelling health claims about dandelion extract is its ability to prevent the growth of cancer cells in various organ systems.

A 4-week study in mice showed that taking dandelion root extract altered specific pathways involved in inhibiting the growth and spread of breast cancer cells.

Other test-tube studies have found that dandelion root extract can slow the growth of cancer cells in liver, colon, prostate, and stomach tissue.

These findings are encouraging, but human studies are still lacking.

May support healthy digestion and treat constipation

Dandelion is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat constipation and improve digestive health. Dandelion root is also a rich source of the prebiotic fiber inulin, which has been shown to relieve constipation and promote the movement of food through the digestive system.

Plus, with over 3 grams of fiber per cooked cup (105 grams), dandelion greens can boost your fiber intake. Fiber promotes regular bowel movements and protects against a variety of digestive conditions, including hemorrhoids…

May support healthy bones

Very little research has been conducted on the effects of dandelion on bone health, although some of the plant's nutrients contribute to maintaining strong bones.

Dandelion leaves are a rich source of calcium and vitamin K, which are important for bone health.

One small study linked increased intake of vitamin K-rich green leafy vegetables with reduced blood levels of osteocalcin, a protein found in bones. This suggests that eating more green leafy vegetables, such as dandelions, may help prevent bone loss.

Inulin, a fiber found in dandelion root, may also support healthy bones by improving digestion and gut health.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/loai-rau-moc-dai-day-viet-nam-nhung-lai-la-than-duoc-cho-suc-khoe-20250513101008772.htm