Dandelion Leaf Profile

Also known as

Taraxacum officinale, Blowball, Cankerwort, Common Dandelion, Dandelion Herb, Leontodon taracum, Lion's Tooth, Pissenlit, Priest's Crown, Swine Snout, Taraxaci herba, Taraxacum vulgare, Wild Endive.

Introduction

The common dandelion, enemy of well-kept lawns, is an exceptionally nutritious food. The folklore attributed to dandelions is wide and varied. According to different folk tales they are able to tell the time of day by two different methods: the first one says that the number of breaths it takes to blow all the seeds off is equal to the time of day; the second says that the number of seeds left over after three strong breaths is the time of day. Dandelions are also said to be able to repel witches if gathered on Midsummer's Eve. Other magical abilities attributed to dandelions include increasing ones psychic ability and divination when used in a tea. Both good and bad luck have been attributed to dandelions. It is considered good luck to have just a few in a wedding bouquet. It is considered bad luck to pick them in a cemetery, and even worse luck if you bring them home, or give them to someone afterwards.

Constituents

The nutrients mentioned in the Introduction, plus bitter taraxacins (eudesmanolides), sitosterol, stigmasterol, alpha- and beta-carotene, caffeic acid, mucilage, and an unusually high potassium content.

Parts Used

The whole leaf, dried, and cut.

Typical Preparations

Typically used as tea or tincture, can be used with dandelion root. Sometimes encapsulated.

Summary

The fresh greens of Dandelion are great in salads, and the dried leaf makes a comparable alternative. Both the leaves and root are loaded with nutrients including substantial levels of vitamins A, C, D, and B complex as well as iron, magnesium, zinc, potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon.

Precautions

Use with caution if you have gallstones.

For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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