Spring is here which is a great time to forage plants such as the dandelion in botany it is classified as Taraxacum officinale. Taraxacum is a large genus of asteraceae, Officinale, the species name, is a Latin term that is attached to those herbs that contain long-accepted medicinal properties. Asteraceae were first described in 1740. interestingly, according to "The Century Dictionary" around 900 A.D. the Persians called the herb tarashquq then 100 years later, called it Taraxcum. The most commonly known in this family are the Dandelion, though daisy, aster and sunflower are also in this family. Dandelions are good for your lawn. Their wide-spreading roots are known for loosening hard-packed soil, reduce erosion. The deep taproot pulls nutrients such as calcium from deep in the soil, make them available to other plants and fertilize the grass.
The dandelion root is best harvested from late fall to early spring as this is the time of dormancy and has stored up energy. This is also a time when it is easier to break up the dirt around the root. All parts of the dandelion plant are edible and have many benefits. Dandelion is found in a variety of herbal tea blends.
Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans enjoyed the dandelions flower. Once commonly desired in gardens. Dandelion plant has been used in traditional Chinese (pu gong ying), Ayurvedic (simhadanti), and Native American medicine, dandelion to treat stomach and liver conditions. Modern herbalists today believe that it can help treat many health problems such as acne, a natural diuretic, eczema, high cholesterol, gastrointestinal disorders, maintaining a healthy level of blood sugar, and liver issues.
The reason there is little medical research to support such claims is primarily because of the lack of profitability in addition to the inability of standardization which provides a system of quantity of dosage. We neglect to give adequate credence to the historical documentation of plants though many are currently still used to derive pharmaceutical products from today. Additionally many that were used prior were then synthesized (chemically created, not bio-identical)
Dandelion contains inulin a type of oligosaccharide called a fructan. Inulin is used as a soluble dietary fiber. Inulin has been linked to digestive health, assisting in the controlling diabetes, aiding in weight loss, as a natural probiotic, and even increasing calcium levels.
As with anything too much of a good thing can have negative consequences Contradictions may occur when paired with certain pharmaceuticals.
Inulin can be found in more common foods such as asparagus, artichoke, leeks, onions, garlic, and bananas. Inulin is also added to many commercially made foods and should be noted on the label as “inulin or chicory root fiber” it is always advisable to asses the entire label as a whole when determining if the item is suitable for your needs.
Dandelion leaves and flowers are also edible having the same benefits with differing ratios also having a long history in ancient medicine for breast concerns, appendicitis and stomach problems.
Today you can sometimes find fresh dandelion leaves and roots in local groceries and farmers markets. I prefer to harvest my own from my own back yard.
Dandelion is a bitter herb which I had to acquire a liking for. I enjoy using a tea pot when making herbal tea as I find a the warmth of a nice warm cup of tea in the am bowel stimulator and quick pick me up, or for a pm soother to unwind and get a more restful nights sleep. Often times I add it to a vegetable smoothie with turmeric, ginger, cucumber, celery and carrots. I use dandelion plant after having ate at a restaurant or consuming packaged store food items.
The information presented on this site is provided for informational purposes only, it is not meant to substitute for medical advice or diagnosis provided by your physician or other medical professional. Do not use this information to diagnose, treat or cure any illness or health condition. If you have, or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your physician or health care provider.
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