If you’re like most people, you probably consider dandelions either a good-for-nothing plant or a nuisance weed that keeps springing up on your lawn.

The truth about dandelions, however, is that they’re one of nature’s most powerful medicines. Not only are all parts of the dandelion plants edible, but they’re also chock-full of essential vitamins and minerals.

Take a look at these 5 health reasons why you shouldn’t get rid of dandelions:

1.     Supports digestion

Dandelion has been traditionally used to promote digestive health for centuries. Incorporating dandelion into your diet can help you relieve gas and constipation and detoxify your digestive system.

Dandelion root has also been found to restore healthy gut flora and maintain pH balance in the body. It can be used together with probiotics to help increase the amount of good bacteria in people who take antibiotics and relieve the symptoms of heartburn.

2.     Improves liver function

The liver is one of the most important organs in the body with several hundred different functions. It is the body’s natural detoxifying system, which means taking care of your liver is essential for good health.

Drinking dandelion tea stimulates the flow of bile, which helps the liver break down and absorb fats from food. Studies have shown that dandelion root extract can also protect the liver from injury caused by overconsumption of alcohol.

3.     Reduces water retention

Dandelion is a natural diuretic, which means it helps reduce water retention. In fact, studies have shown that dandelion leaf extract has a diuretic effect comparable to those of conventional diuretic pills.

Another way dandelion helps you get rid of water weight is by lowering the levels of sodium in the body. Tea made from dandelion greens is rich in potassium and magnesium, two important minerals which help flush out excess sodium and reduce bloating.

4.     Helps clear acne

Acne is usually hormonal in origin, which means applying creams and ointments will do little to reduce the symptoms. This is why it’s important to take care of your skin from inside out.

Dandelion root contains a number of essential nutrients necessary for hormonal balance, such as zinc, iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It’s also rich in Vitamins A, B, C, and D, all of which stimulate the growth of new skin cells and promote a clearer complexion.

5.     Boosts immune system

Studies on animals provide evidence that dandelion extract, also known as Taraxacum officinale, increases the level of red blood cells and mean hemoglobin.

Dandelion extract contains chlorogenic acid, an organic compound which acts as an antioxidant and prevents the penetration of viruses in cells. Regular consumption of dandelion also improves the resistance of red blood cells to free radicals and stimulates the immune response.

So, if you have dandelions in your garden, don’t reach for your lawnmower just yet. Instead, think of all the different ways you can use these miracle weeds to improve your overall health and well being.