Dull Skin, Bloating, Fatigue? Here’s How Dandelion Can Help

Dull Skin, Bloating, Fatigue? Here’s How Dandelion Can Help

Cayla Mandean

Have you ever found yourself battling persistent skin issues, digestive discomfort, or feeling sluggish, no matter how many natural remedies you've tried? Trust me, I've been there.

What if I told you that something most of us know as a pesky garden weed actually holds the key to unlocking better overall health? A bright yellow/orange "weed" none other than dandelion, which helps support the body's natural detoxification processes.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has been loved for centuries for its ability to support liver health and function, aid digestion, soothe the stomach, promote wound healing, support skin health, and so much more.

So, if you've been feeling drained, struggling with skin flare-ups, or just need a gentle reset, this humble herb could be exactly what your body craves.

What is Dandelion Good For?

As an edible medicinal herb and vegetable, dandelion (Taraxacum genus) has been used in traditional medicine, folk remedies, and substitution therapies in many countries to treat diverse diseases. Both its root and aerial parts (leaves, stems, and flowers) offer a range of medicinal properties.

It is commonly known for its detoxifying effects, and multiple studies have revealed its anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, anticoagulant, immunostimulatory and anti-rheumatic properties (amongst others), but more research is still in the works.

*Fun fact…. Their flower heads open during the daytime and close at night and have colours ranging from yellow to orange.

Dandelion Root:

The root is commonly used for its liver-supporting and digestive benefits. It contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that promotes gut health and aids in digestion. Dandelion root supports liver health by promoting bile production, which aids digestion and the body's natural detoxification processes. Preliminary research suggests that dandelion root may support healthy cholesterol levels.

Dandelion Herb (Leaves & Flowers):

The leaves and flowers are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them great for skin health, hydration, and overall well-being. They are often used in teas, tinctures, and topical applications.

How Dandelion Benefits the Skin

Detoxifies & Clears Acne: Dandelion supports liver function, which is essential for processes such as detoxification and hormone metabolism. The liver helps filter waste and regulates hormones that may contribute to skin issues. By promoting liver health, dandelion may indirectly aid in maintaining clearer skin.

Fights Free Radicals, Hydrates and Protects Skin: Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and polyphenols, dandelion helps combat oxidative stress, preventing premature aging and improving skin elasticity by neutralising free radicals, protecting your skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV damage.

It also acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the skin.

Soothes Inflammatory Skin Conditions: The anti-inflammatory properties of dandelion make it excellent for soothing conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Its compounds help reduce redness and irritation, promoting a calm and balanced complexion.

What Dandelion Does to Your Body

Blood Pressure and Sugar Regulation: Dandelion may support healthy blood circulation. As a natural diuretic, dandelion may aid in reducing water retention and can support blood pressure levels. Other studies have also pointed to dandelions' potential to help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for individuals managing diabetes or metabolic conditions.

Liver & Digestion Support: Dandelion root supports liver function, helping to break down fats, remove toxins, and improve digestion. It's a natural remedy for bloating and constipation.

Boosts Immune Function: With antimicrobial and immune-enhancing properties, dandelion can support immune health and strengthen the body's defenses against infections.

Reduces Water Retention & Supports Kidney Health: As a natural diuretic, dandelion helps flush excess fluids, reducing bloating and supporting kidney function.

How to Incorporate Dandelion into Your Diet

Dandelion Herbal Tea Infusion

A simple and effective way to enjoy dandelion's benefits is through a Herbal Tea (infusion): Place 1-2 teaspoons of Dandelion in a cup of freshly boiled water. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes before straining. Drink hot or cold. This infusion can also be used topically as a cleanser. You could try the below recipe to start:

Brightening DIY Dandelion Cleanser

Here is a simple cleansing recipe using mild castile soap as the surfactant. You can easily substitute any other oils in place of the Moringa Oil. Please note that this cleanser doesn't contain a preservative, so it would be best to use it up within a few weeks.

Ingredients:

¾ cup brewed Dandelion Tea

⅛ tsp Citric Acid (to bring down the pH of the castile soap and make it skin-friendly)

¼ cup Liquid Castile Soap (a very gentle soap but still has a pH of around 9)

½ tsp Moringa Oil (nourishes the skin and helps brighten and address hyperpigmentation)

2 -3 drops Vitamin E Oil (optional antioxidant)

8 drops Frankincense Essential Oil or any other essential oil you’d like

8 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil or any other essential oil you’d like

Method:

  1. Add the citric acid to the dandelion tea.
  2. Stir to dissolve and leave to cool.
  3. Add the castile soap, moringa oil and vitamin E oil to a glass bottle.
  4. Add the essential oils and top the bottle up with the cooled tea solution.
  5. Shake gently to combine.

To use, wet your face with water, pump out some of the cleanser and massage into your skin for about a minute. Then rinse off and follow up with your favourite moisturiser or serum. 

DIY Dandelion-Infused Healing Salve

Soothe dry skin, support skin health and repair and promote pain relief with this nourishing salve.

Ingredients for Herbal Oil Infusion: 

If you have any left over after preparing the below recipe, you can simply use it as a body oil. Click here to include it in a customised DIY recipe.

Ingredients

Phase A

57.50% Capric Caprylic Triglycerides (MCT Oil) (moisturising, lightweight and non-comedogenic)

15.00% Olive Oil (has anti-inflammatory properties, supporting skin repair and soothing irritation)

10.00% Castor Oil (anti-inflammatory and helps alleviate pain)

5.00% Comfrey Oil (contains allantoin, which promotes cell regeneration and helps repair damaged skin. It's great for soothing minor wounds, bruises, or dry, irritated skin)

10.00% Beeswax (acts as a natural emulsifier to bind the ingredients. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and enhancing the salve's long-lasting effects)

Phase B

1.50% Vitamin E Oil (stabilises the salve by preventing oxidation of the oils. Additionally, it nourishes the skin and supports the healing of damaged tissue)

0.50% Clove Bud Essential Oil (has pain-relieving properties; it contains eugenol, which provides a mild anesthetic effect and reduces inflammation)

0.50% Wintergreen Essential Oil (has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help soothe discomfort in muscles and joints)

Method:

  1. Infuse the oil: Place dandelion root and herb in a jar and cover with olive oil. Let it sit for about 3 weeks in a warm spot, or use a double boiler on low heat for 3-4 hours. Avoid overheating, as it can degrade the beneficial compounds. Click here for more tips on Oil Macerations, aka herbal oil infusions.
  2. Strain the oil: Use a cheesecloth to remove plant material, leaving only infused oil.
  3. Mix all ingredients from Phase A and heat gently to 75°C until the waxes are fully melted.
  4. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly combined, then let it cool slightly to about 65°C.
  5. Add the Phase B ingredients to Phase A and mix gently until the mixture is smooth.
  6. Keep the mixture warm (just above its melting point) while pouring it into tins or jars.
  7. Let the product cool completely to below 25°C before sealing the containers. If it sinks or creates gaps while cooling, you may need to add a little more to top it up.
  8. Allow to cool fully before using.

To use, gently massage a small amount onto sore muscles to ease discomfort or apply to wounds and bruises to support healing. It also works wonderfully as a natural remedy for menstrual pain relief.

Recommended Usage & Safety Considerations

Patch Test for Skin Use: Before using dandelion-infused skincare products, do a patch test on a small area to check for any adverse reactions.

Be Mindful of Allergies: Dandelion belongs to the Asteraceae family, so those allergic to sunflowers, daisies, or marigolds should proceed with caution.

Consult a Professional for Internal Use: While Dandelion may offer relief, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. No single food, herb, or supplement can single-handedly improve health. Overall well-being is best supported by a balanced diet and a variety of nutrients. If you have specific health conditions, are on medication like blood thinners, diuretics, or medications affecting blood sugar levels, or have dietary restrictions, consult with a healthcare professional before using it regularly. 

References:

Dandelion (Taraxacum Genus): A Review of Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Effects - PMC

Pro-health activity of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale L.) and its food products – history and present - ScienceDirect

(PDF) Analytical Research of the Dandelion's Origin and Science Studies of Pharmaceutical Uses

What Does the Liver Do? Functions, Structures, Regeneration, Diseases

Dandelion Root Benefits, How to Use and Side Effects - Dr. Axe

Dandelion

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Cayla Mandean

With a passion for skincare, wellness, and storytelling, Cayla is here to cut through the clutter and empower you with clear, research-backed, actionable knowledge to elevate your beauty routine and well-being. If she’s not outside in nature, at the gym, reading or spending time with her loved ones, you will find her creating clear, impactful content that inspires and informs. Her goal? To make sure you feel confident in your choices and enjoy the journey to an empowered, happier you!


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