May- Dandelion!

In honor of the Dandelion moon of May, Lets talk about this tasty weed!

Dandelion ( Taraxacum Officinale).

This weed is often thought of as a pest, when in reality it is pleasant!
Dandelion is a great diuretic ( increase flow of urine), and often used as a remedy for the following
Urinary tract infections, diseases of the gall bladder, and liver. It is also thought to improve digestion.
*Always check with a professional herbalist, or physician before trying new remedies *

This "weed" is a great source of iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C. Not to shabby for that pesky little weed on the sidewalk. Which by the way.......... It is not wise to pick and eat something growing on the sidewalk, roadways, or near a busy populated area ( you just ever know what the plant could contain). If you know your plants, you can always go off into the woods or an unpopulated area and harvest that way. I have noticed that a lot of natural grocery stores no carry fresh dandelion. It is located near the lettuce, and could make a great addition to salad!


Dandelion Coffee:

  You can make your own by washing the roots, slicing them into small bits, letting them air dry for several days. Once they are completely dry, roast in the oven at 375 ( 2-4 hours) turning often so that they brown evenly. When they are done, there will be a slight coffee aroma coming from them.
  You can grind the roots and make like you would coffee!

Or how about dandelion flower wine, and dandelion wine......So many things to do with this little weed!