Dandelion for Thyroid Nodules? Beware of the Truth Behind "Folk Remedies"!

Dandelion for Thyroid Nodules? Beware of the Truth Behind "Folk Remedies"!In recent years, as people's health awareness has increased, more and more people have begun to pay attention to the therapeutic and health benefits of traditional Chinese medicine. Dandelion, as a common herb, has been given the title of "miracle drug" due to its detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and disperse-knotting effects

Dandelion for Thyroid Nodules? Beware of the Truth Behind "Folk Remedies"!

In recent years, as people's health awareness has increased, more and more people have begun to pay attention to the therapeutic and health benefits of traditional Chinese medicine. Dandelion, as a common herb, has been given the title of "miracle drug" due to its detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and disperse-knotting effects. It is even rumored that "dandelion can eliminate thyroid nodules and kill cancer cells." However, are these claims true? Does dandelion really have such miraculous effects?

I. Can Dandelion Really Eliminate Thyroid Nodules? The Truth Might Surprise You!

In recent years, rumors about dandelion have been circulating online, the most notable being "dandelion can eliminate thyroid nodules." Many people, upon seeing the words "disperse-knotting," mistakenly believe that they can use dandelion tea to treat thyroid nodules. However, this is not the case. This is a typical misunderstanding of "interpreting literally."

1. Misunderstanding of the word "knot": In traditional Chinese medicine, the "knot" does not refer to thyroid nodules but to boils and pustules on the surface of the skin, such as carbuncles, swellings, etc.

2. Lack of scientific evidence: Currently, there is no medication, whether in traditional Chinese medicine or Western medicine, that has been proven to effectively treat thyroid nodules.

3. Doctors' opinions: Dr. Fei Mengjia, a head and neck surgeon at Renji Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, pointed out that dandelion is of no help in eliminating thyroid nodules.

II. Dandelion "Killing Cancer Cells" Rumors: The Truth is Frightening!

Besides eliminating thyroid nodules, there is also a rumour circulating online that "dandelion can kill 98% of cancer cells within 48 hours," giving many patients a glimmer of hope. However, is this really the case? Let's uncover the truth.

1. Limitations of the research subjects: The rumour originated from a study conducted by Professor Siyaram Pandey's team at the University of Windsor in Canada. However, the study only targeted two melanoma cell lines, not all cancer cells.

2. Disconnection between research methods and reality: The study used dandelion extract, not directly consuming dandelion, and the experiment was conducted in vitro on cell cultures. It cannot be directly extrapolated to humans.

3. The complexity of the human body: The human body is far more complex than cells. In vitro experimental results are not reliable and should not be used as justification for blindly drinking dandelion water to eliminate nodules in daily life.

III. The Real Effects of Dandelion: 4 Aspects Worth Knowing!

Although dandelion cannot eliminate thyroid nodules or kill cancer cells, it is still a plant with high medicinal value, known as the "Queen of Herbs" in traditional Chinese medicine. It has the following four effects:

1. Clear heat and detoxify: For symptoms of sore throat, dry mouth, loose stools, fatigue, poor appetite, and other symptoms of heatiness, consuming dandelion can have a cooling effect without harming the body's vital energy.

2. Disperse swelling and knots: For boils, carbuncles, swollen glands, and sores with redness, swelling, and heat caused by heat toxicity and stagnation of blood, consuming dandelion can provide good relief. This is especially beneficial for women suffering from acute suppurative mastitis, as consuming dandelion can improve symptoms while promoting lactation.

3. Promote urination and eliminate dampness: Dandelion has excellent diuretic effects. It can relieve heat and dampness-related urination problems and yellowing of the urine. It can also treat redness and swelling of the eyes caused by excessive liver fire.

4. Treat breast abscesses: In ancient China, dandelion was used to treat breast diseases. It can clear heat and detoxify, effectively treating mastitis caused by heat toxicity and stagnation.

IV. Cautions for Consuming Dandelion: These Issues Must Be Noted!

Although dandelion has medicinal value, not everyone is suitable for consuming it. The method of consumption also needs attention.

1. Fresh dandelion cannot be directly boiled for water: Fresh dandelion contains a lot of oxalic acid and it's difficult to extract the effective components from dandelion by simply soaking it in water. To achieve medicinal effects, it must be processed strictly.

2. Individuals with cold spleen and stomach and allergies should use with caution: People with cold spleen and stomach and allergies are prone to exacerbate their symptoms by consuming dandelion.

3. Do not consume dandelion long-term: Dandelion is cold in nature. Long-term consumption can cause diarrhea and other discomforts.

V. Dietary Restrictions for Thyroid Nodule Patients: 3 Foods to Eat Less!

There are rumors circulating online that "people with thyroid nodules cannot eat radishes and other cruciferous vegetables." Is this true?

1. Relationship between thiocyanate and thyroid: Thiocyanate does inhibit the thyroid's absorption of iodine, leading to insufficient production of thyroid hormones, resulting in thyroid tissue hyperplasia and enlargement.

2. Difference between goitre and thyroid nodules: Goitre is a diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland caused by iodine deficiency, while thyroid nodules are solid masses in a specific location, which can be benign or malignant.

3. Dosage determines toxicity: The thiocyanate level in the blood needs to reach 4.8-6.4 mg/L to cause goitre, which requires consuming more than 2 kilograms of cruciferous vegetables with high glucosinolate content for several consecutive months.

4. True dietary restrictions: Foods that thyroid nodule patients should truly eat less of are:

• Seaweed/shellfish: Seaweed such as kelp, nori, and wakame, as well as shrimps and shellfish, are high in iodine content and should be eaten in moderation.

• Iodized salt/MSG: Iodized salt and MSG are both high-iodine foods, and their consumption should be controlled.

• Pickled foods: Ham, salted fish, smoked meat, sausage, and other pickled foods contain a lot of iodized salt and are not suitable for thyroid nodule patients to consume in large quantities.

• Egg yolk: Egg yolks are high in iodine content. Thyroid nodule patients should consume them in moderation.

VI. Conclusion: Treat Folk Remedies Rationally, Scientific Medical Treatment is Key!

Thyroid nodules are a common benign condition. After diagnosis, it is important to regularly follow up and have check-ups. Do not blindly trust folk remedies to eliminate nodules, as this can backfire. Scientific medical treatment and rational treatment of folk remedies are crucial for ensuring your health!

References:

[1] "2 Days to Kill 98% of Cancer Cells? Is the Suddenly Popular Dandelion That Magical?" Health Zhejiang 2023-04-24

[2] "The "Wild Flower" by the Roadside: It Clears Heat and Detoxifies Without Harming the Spleen and Stomach." Guangdong Traditional Chinese Medicine 2021-05-01

[3] "@Patients with Thyroid Disease: These Foods Should Be Eaten in Moderation." China Food News Official Platform 2024-04-08

Disclaimer: This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. If you have any health concerns, please consult a qualified physician.

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