Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is in the daisy family and most people have had some encounter with the bright yellow flower since our childhood. Dandelion is one of the most nutritious and healing plants that we have available to us in abundance! Dandelion blooms just about everywhere in the springtime, creating an abundant offering as food and medicine. You can use the whole plant! Roots, leaves, and flowers are all beneficial for nutrition and healing. You can eat the greens raw in salads, add them to soups and sauté them with other veggies. Dry dandelion leaves to make tea, extract it to make a tincture, and make dandelion vinegar, wine, and beer. Add it to skin healing salves.
Dandelion Uses
Dandelion is alkaline rich in minerals and vitamins that the body needs to be healthy and resilient. It is high in vitamin A and C that support a strong immune system and vitamin K which supports bone health. Dandelion is very high in potassium (more than your average banana) and high calcium and magnesium.
Dandelion is an antioxidant herb containing beta-carotene that neutralizes free radical damage in the body and prevents cellular damage and oxidative stress. It is a builder, a beneficial tonic.
Dandelions are best known as a diuretic causing the body to produce more urine to help remove excess liquid from the body, reduces inflammation and flushes the liver and the kidneys of toxins. It is high in electrolytes which helps the kidneys to filter toxins and improves blood flow. It is used in urinary track formulas along with Uva Ursi.
Dandelion is used in all herbal cleansing and detox formulas because of its ability to detox the blood and it’s tonifying effect on kidney function. Dandelion increases the flow of bile and helps the gut to absorb minerals to maintain health. It is also known for its ability to moderate blood sugar levels and to improve insulin tolerance and to lower blood cholesterol.
We would all be much healthier if we drank a cup or 2 of dandelion tea every day! Or included dandelion in a blended tea of herbs like nettles and lemon balm. It is easy to make a quart of herbal infusion (tea) and store it in the frig for a couple of days.
Dandelion is more potent and convenient as an herbal tincture and very easy to make at home and has a long shelf life.
Disclaimer:
Herbal supplements are not intended to prevent or cure any specific disease. Consult with your Health Care Provider, Herbalist, Nutritionist, or Registered Dietitian before taking an herbal supplement to determine the proper dosage and to clarify any contraindications for allergies, pregnancy, and/or interactions with medications.
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