Dandelion – Taraxacum officinale

I love dandelions, let me tell you why.

Dandelion leaves are the second plant we “mamas” harvest in spring. Early spring is the time to harvest these leaves (before the flowers appear). We will talk about harvesting the roots in the fall. The meaning of the latin name refers to Taraxos (Greek) means disorder, Achos (Greek) means remedy. The name dandelion was invented by a fifteenth century surgeon, who compared the shape of the leaves to a lion’s tooth, or “dens leonis”.

Dandelion has many beneficial properties and actions. The leaves contain bitter glycosides (active plant constituent containing one or more sugar groups), terpenoids (generally, highly aromatic plants), carotenoids (various yellow to red pigments that occur in plants), choline (part of the vitamin B complex essential to liver function), potassium salts, iron and other minerals, vitamins A,B,C and D. The leaves are an effective diuretic (encourages urine flow). Dandelion increases bile flow from the liver and aids in digestion.

The area we live in has FINALLY banned pesticide use on lawns. For years I would giggle on my way home, in the spring, as I passed our neighbours with their pristine, weed free lawns. Then you would come to our house which would be a sea of beautiful yellow flowers. Thank you for your beauty Mr. Dandelion and all your many herbal healing benefits. I salute you!!!!

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