With its yellow flowers, dandelion (Taraxacom officinale) is perhaps one of the most easily
identifiable plants in your backyard. It can be found in North America, Europe, Asia, South
America, New Zealand, Australia, and other locations throughout the world. Though some regard
it as a weed, there are a number of uses for it!
Dandelion is edible, so it’s commonly used in salads and soups. It is believed to be detoxifying to
the liver and digestive tract due to the diuretic properties of their leaves. The white sap that can
be derived from the stem and roots of dandelion is commonly used as a homemade topical
treatment for warts.
Dandelions provide great liver support and boast being chock full of vitamins A, C and K, as
well as carotene and potassium. You will find them all over in the spring, especially in open
meadows, grassy areas, and backyards. You will recognize them by their bright yellow blossom,
and deeply notched leaves. They are a first food for the bees as well, so be sure to leave 5 or –6
flowers standing for every one you take.
Leave a Reply