Latin Binomial: Taraxacum officinale
Okay. I know that some of you are asking, “Are you really talking about that pesky weed that I spend time, money, and energy trying to get rid of?” Yes, that one. After reading this though, I’m hoping that you’ll realize just what a little treasure you have right in your backyard (and probably the front too).
Dandelion is best known as a diuretic, as one of its common names ‘piss-in-the-bed’ tells us. It has been used this way throughout history to increase the flow of urine, help with kidney and bladder problems and to cleanse the urinary system. It has also been used historically to tone the digestive system, help with liver problems, jaundice, and stomach disorders. In Ireland, it was part of a formula called Diancecht’s Porridge that was given for everything from stomach problems to colds and sore throats to getting rid of worms. In China, it’s been used for breast cancer for thousands of years. Finally, the sap from the flower stems were used to get rid of warts.
Today, dandelions are used in much the same way. It is good for water retention and helps the urinary system in general. It is known to aid sluggish digestion, liver disorders, arthritis, skin issues, and as a gallbladder tonic. The leaves are highly nutritious containing potassium, Vitamin A (more than a carrot), magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, copper, and vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C. [A side note: If you have pet rabbits who are prone to bladder sludge or urinary problems, dandelion leaves are great to give them. I give mine 4-5 leaves at a time.]
The leaves and roots are used. The leaves are more diuretic and the roots are better for the digestive system. However, both have the same indications so don’t let this trip you up too much.
So how do you incorporate them into your everyday life? The leaves are a great addition to salads. They have a slightly bitter taste. More and more grocery stores are starting to carry dandelion leaves. You can also cook them as a side dish, just google dandelion recipes and you can find some great ones. For the roots, you can buy dandelion root tea either in the grocery store or a health food store. The tea has a nutty flavor to it. It is recommended to only have 3-4 cups of tea a day. The roots are also roasted and made into a tea as a coffee replacement. Dandy Blend is an example but there are other herbs besides dandelion. Lastly, I’ve read about dandelion wine made from the flowers but I haven’t seen it much less tasted any so I can’t comment on that.
Note: Do not use dandelion root if you have an intestinal blockage, gallbladder inflammation, or blocked bile ducts. If you are on medication, it is recommended that you check with your healthcare provider first. The Safety page has more tips.
If you choose to harvest, first check field sources to make absolutely sure that you have dandelion in your yard. Many plants look alike and you don’t want to end up with something that might be poisonous. After double-checking and being positive that they haven’t been sprayed with pesticides or fertilizer, harvest the young leaves in the spring and the roots in the fall. The older the leaves are, the more bitter.
So are you interested in starting to use dandelions or do you already? Leave me a comment and tell me how. And if you liked this post, feel free to share it.
Until next time…
References
1. Ritchason, Jack (1995). The little herb encyclopedia 3rd edition. Pleasant Grove, UT: Woodland Health Books.
2. Lecture: Dandelion (2011). American College of Healthcare Sciences.
3. Potterton, David ed. (2007). Culpeper’s color herbal. New York: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.
4. Mac Coitir, Niall (2006). Irish wild plants: myths, legends & folklore. Cork: The Collins Press.
Image credits:
Dandelion field: Copyright: <a href=’https://www.123rf.com/profile_hydromet’>hydromet / 123RF Stock Photo</a>
Dandelion table: Copyright: <a href=’https://www.123rf.com/profile_Elenathewise’>Elenathewise / 123RF Stock Photo</a>