Roots for the liver, leaves for the kidneys, remove warts and clear acne with this special herb
‘Some see a wish, some see a weed’
It is such a pity that so many gardeners dislike dandelions and go to great lengths to eradicate them. I know it really spreads a lot, but if you use it quickly, and pick the flowers before they die, the plants won’t have time to seed.
Some common names for dandelion are Fairy Clock, Lion’s Teeth, Piss-a-bed, Wet -Weed, Priest’s Crown and Puff-a-Ball, relating to its diuretic properties and the beautiful seed head. I remember blowing the seeds to see what the time was. I am sure it was never accurate, but perhaps nature thought it a good way to spread the seed.
Medicinal
The leaves are a potent diuretic and have the added benefit of a rich potassium content which replaces that is lost in urination. They are also a gentle liver and digestive tonic.
The root is used as a liver stimulant and is useful for toxic conditions such as gout, acne, constipation and digestive complaints. Use the latex in the stalks for removing warts and clearing up acne. Other uses are as a blood cleanser and for coughs.
Culinary
The leaves have a slightly bitter flavour which goes so well with the creaminess of boiled eggs in a salad. If you want something a little different, cover the small seedlings with a bucket to block out the sun. Just remember to water them. You will be rewarded with white leaves which are so pretty in salads. I often make Dandelion pesto which makes a nice change to basil pesto and uses up quite a few leaves. Dandelion oil is a lovely salad oil which goes well with a plain vinegar as a salad dressing
For the Garden
And, as if the medicinal and culinary purposes are not enough, dandelions are very rich in copper which your garden loves. Combine it with comfrey for a super potent liquid fertilizer. The root will give you a yellow-brown dye, and hamsters, rabbits and guinea pigs love it. And, finally, the flowers make a delicious wine. Try this recipe for Dandelion Wine from The Guardian. Now all you need to do is plant your dandelion patch!
Botanical name: Taraxacum officinale