A definition of a weed is "one that grows profusely where it is not wanted". A weed is not a bad plant, simply an easy growing one. And this one is multipurpose with quite possibly one very important additional purpose.
The Dandelion's roots can be ground and roasted as a coffee alternative and it has more beta-carotene than carrots. The iron and calcium content is phenomenal, greater than spinach. You also get vitamins B-1, B-2, B-5, B-6, B-12, C, E, P, and D, biotin, inositol, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. Due to toxic spraying, make sure your dandelions are acquired from safe growing areas.
The plant can be eaten cooked or raw in various forms, such as in soup or salad. They are probably closest in character to mustard greens. Usually the young leaves and unopened buds are eaten raw in salads, while older leaves are cooked. Raw leaves have a slightly bitter taste. Dandelion salad is often accompanied with hard boiled eggs.
Dandelion flowers can be used to make dandelion wine, usually containing citrus fruits. The plant can be made into dandelion flower jam. It is believed to stimulate digestive functions and is considered an excellent cleansing tonic for the liver. Dandelion root is a registered drug in Canada, sold as a diuretic. A leaf decoction can be drunk to "purify the blood", for the treatment of anemia, jaundice, and also for nervousness. The milky latex has been used as a mosquito repellent; the milk is also applied to warts, helping get rid of them without damaging the surrounding skin. A dye can also be obtained from the roots of the plant. A new mixture of roasted roots is sold as a product called DandyBlend which tastes like coffee after the inulin in the dandelion is roasted.
"Dandelion and Burdock" is a soft drink that has long been popular in the United Kingdom with authentic recipes are sold by health food shops. Dandelion contains Luteolin, an antioxidant, and has demonstrated antioxidant properties without cytotoxicity.
Indigo Earth Notes: When I find a raw source that is guaranteed to be organic, I will try some. In the meanwhile, I do add dried dandelions to my herbal tea blend, and a tablespoon of dried dandelions can add a bitterness to a pot of tea, so start with 1/2 tablespoon. Dandelion is also known for it's diuretic properties without leaching the potassium out of your system like pharmaceutical remedies are known to do.
The additional important purpose I believe this plant has is to simply be a food source. We all know how these plants can grow everywhere and in the hardest of conditions, making the dandelion a viable food source in drought ridden and poor global communities.
Courtney Findlay is a professional soapmaker, having had her own soap making business that manufactured, wholesaled and retailed soap and other bath products, all from the store's premises. Courtney received Chamber of Commerce nominations for Entrepreneur of the Year, New Business of the Year and Best Customer Service. Creating natural products and a love of research and writing has lead Courtney to produce a natural news and information website at www.natural-soap-making.com.