I’ve always found dandelions kind of cheerful – until they don their white weedy heads. This pretty little “weed” is actually not even a weed at all! It’s actually an herb. In fact, for centuries people in the know have depended on the golden flower for a number of unexpected health benefits. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this is more than likely true considering dandelions provide you with higher amounts of Vitamin A than spinach, more Vitamin C than tomatoes, and are packed with iron, calcium, and potassium. Here are 10 reasons this once hated weed is a herb to be revered. (1, 2)

1. Dandelions Are An Antioxidant

The beta-carotene and polyphenols in dandelions are powerful antioxidants that help protect our body against free radicals. Produced naturally in our bodies, free radicals are actually bad news. They can make us age more quickly and also contribute to the development of some diseases. Dandelions reduce and protect cells from damage. (1)

2. Dandelions Reduce Cholesterol

Dandelions can help reduce cholesterol thanks to bioactive compounds. One study found the root and leaf can be beneficial for those on high-cholesterol diets while another showed dandelions also reduced fat in the liver. Testing will have to be conducted on humans to confirm these benefits, however. (1)

3. Dandelions Help With Blood Sugar Regulation

It is believed the antihyperglycemic, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties of dandelions could he used to treat type 2 diabetes. Further research will be needed to confirm the claim, however. (1)

4. Dandelions Can Lower Blood Pressure

It is believed the potassium found in dandelions can aid in the reduction of blood pressure. Those with higher blood pressure levels who take potassium supplements could see their blood pressure lower. (1)

5. Dandelions Aid In Weight Loss

Research shows dandelions help improve carb metabolism while also reducing fat absorption. As well, one study using mice showed the chlorogenic acid found in dandelions can also assist in weight reduction and lipid retention, although evidence of this is not overly strong. (1)

6. Dandelions Can Reduce The Risk Of Cancer

There has been limited evidence dandelions can slow the growth of colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, and liver cancer. More research is required to confirm and support this. (1)

7. Dandelions Boost The Immune System

The antiviral and antibacterial properties in dandelions can provide a boost to the immune system including limiting the growth of hepatitis. However, once again further research is required to confirm these findings. (1)

8. Dandelions Aid In Digestion

The chemicals in dandelions can act as a natural remedy for constipation as well as other digestive problems. However, research confirming this has only been shown effective in rodents at this time. (1)

9. Dandelions Keep Skin Healthy

Some research showed dandelions could protect skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light. Tests have to be conducted on humans to confirm the results of skin tested in test tubes. It is also believed dandelions have anti-itching properties that can help with skin conditions such as eczema. (1, 3)

While it seems a lot of these studies haven’t been conducted on humans yet, it certainly presents some compelling reasons to consider dandelions as a friend instead of a foe. And as an aside, dandelion leaves are also quite common in salad mixes in many restaurants. You might be eating them without even knowing it! Just make sure to watch out for allergies, as ingesting dandelion might cause allergic reactions, an upset stomach, diarrhea, or heartburn for some. (4)