Dandelion. There is so much I could write when it comes to dandelions. Or as the French call it; Dent De Lion because the edges of the leaves looked like lions' teeth. It is always sad to see so many people view this bright, beautiful plant as such a nuisance. Killing it with poisonous pesticides when they should be welcoming this little beauty into their lives. It not only is beneficial to us humans, but it is also beneficial to those amazing little fuzzy guys we call bees!
With its bright yellow petals, jagged dark green leaves, and deep roots the dandelion grows just about everywhere around the world. Dandelions first bloom with a bright yellow flower, inviting all pollen-loving insects to come for a visit. Then in the evenings, the flower closes up, protecting itself from the cold and protecting the pollen it holds. Once pollination has completed it will again close up for a few days and upon opening up again it reveals tiny seeds with feathery tufts. This allows the wind to pick the seeds up and carry them far and wide. You can find dandelions everywhere and anywhere. Pastures, meadows, sidewalks, and cities. The dandelion is a plant that will always find a way to grow. A true survivor. And a wonderful inspiration.
Medicinally speaking the dandelion provides many gifts. The entire plant from petal to root is edible. We can go back centuries to discover that dandelion has been used for all issues concerning detoxification, acne, fluid retention, and even depression. So, if you have issues with liver, kidneys, and gut health then you may well benefit greatly from the addition of dandelion to your diet. The petals and leaves have long been used as a diuretic, helping to purge toxins out of the body and assist in pushing out the retained fluid. Now the root, which can be bitter, is used for detoxifying the body. It helps eliminate waste products, ie: poo as well as stimulate the liver and gallbladder when they are acting sluggish.
Another great benefit of using the leaves as a diuretic is the fact that they contain very high levels of potassium. So even if you are using the plant for this purpose there is no loss of potassium. Per the Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, there was a study done in 2004 showing dandelion root contained anticancer properties. The attached link provides updated studies on Dandelion root's effectiveness on cancer cell death
Down below I have included an article for further understanding for those who are trying to kick the caffeine habit for whatever reason, roasted Dandelion root “coffee” is a wonderful substitute. I have brewed it myself and I will say it does have that bitter coffee flavor we all love so much.
It goes without saying that the dandelion is a great plant to include in your Ostara celebrations. The simple gesture of watering it if you find some growing in your yard to help welcome spring and all the new birth mother Earth is bringing is a great way to start your relationship with dandelion. You could add them in the form of decoration or as an addition to your meals as a way of magically charging your home and hearth. I can remember as a little girl making a crown of dandelion flowers and pretending to be some sort of fairy or woodland creature. As you can see, I’ve always loved dandelions. And let’s not forget that making a wish while holding the dandelion and blowing the seeds into the air is some of the earliest and simplest forms of magic.
The magic of the dandelion goes back many centuries. The Italian physician, Piere Andrea Mattioli is quoted in his book, Commentarii in Sex Libros Pedacii Dioscorides, “Magicians say that if a person rubs himself all over with dandelion, he will be everywhere welcome and obtain what he wishes.”.
I could go on and on about the endless possibilities of dandelion. But I will save that for another time. However, if you are interested in adding dandelion to your recipe books or to your dietary habit, dandelion is one of the best. As always, I do caution to do a little test before consuming any plant. What may work for me may not work for you. So small additions to your meals are best. If you are still interested in forging forward with dandelion. I can say purchasing roasted root in place of coffee is a great way to start. Keep in mind, just like coffee, it does have a bitter quality. But as I have learned, bitter is better for belly health. If you have been blessed with this plant in your yard, try adding the leaves and petals to your salads and soups. For even more recipe ideas I suggest Brigitte Mars’ Dandelion Medicine. This book offers some easy recipes to try and includes additional health benefits as well as folklore for those who feel inspired to dive deeper into the benefits of dandelion.
As always, consult a medical physician if you have concerns. I am not a medical practitioner, nor do I claim to be. This information is for learning purposes only and is not meant to treat or diagnose. It is simply sharing information that I find valuable.
The Devine Witch
Shannon
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