A Weed, A Wish or a Remedy

DANDELION
taraxacum officinale

This yellow little beauty is common sight in gardens. We have dandelions growing everywhere on the farm. They are a constant source of joy for my family.

The Dandelion’s significance as a herbal remedy is a sadly understated. Almost every part of the plant can be used for culinary or medicinal purposes.

The Dandelion has been used as a diuretic and cleansing medicine since Ancient Greek times. It became a popular tonic during the 19th century and was often combined with Burdock.

CULINARY USES
• Young dandelion leaves add a pungent, bitter taste to fresh salads, soups and stews.
• Dandelion wine and tea is used as a general digestive tonic.
• The roots can be dried, roasted and ground to make a caffeine-free coffee substitute.

GARDENING BENEFITS
• Attracts ladybugs which feed on aphids
• Its long roots aerate soil
• Hastens composting action and increases nourishment of compost

LORE
• It is a long-standing tradition to make a wish when blowing away the seed heads
• Some believe we can call the spirits with Dandelions – that the seeds carry our messages to loved ones who have passed over

MEDICINAL USES
• Acne
• Anaemia
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Antiviral
• Appetite stimulant
• Blood pressure
• Blood sugar
• Blood tonic
• Bruises
• Burns and stings
• Cancer prevention
• Cholesterol
• Digestive tonic
• Diuretic
• Dyspepsia
• Eczema
• Gallbladder
• Gallstones
• General tonic
• Immune Booster
• Indigestion
• Intestinal gas
• Jaundice
• Joint pain
• Kidney cleanser
• Laxative
• Liver support
• Mosquito repellent
• Muscle aches
• Osteoporosis
• Pancreas support
• Skin toner
• Upset stomach
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Warts

Namaste
Ursula and Donna
Green Soul Gardens