DANDELION - An Age Old Remedy
Dandelion is reputed as an enemy of the well kept lawn by some. But, to others, the humble dandelion is an age old remedy and much esteemed plant. It has a very long history as both a food and a medicine, including Native American traditions. It attracts bees and butterflies when in flower, which makes it a good companion for fruit tree pollination. Children delight to blow the little puff ball heads that contain the seeds. That is how dandelion reseeds. Birds, animals, people, and the wind all help propagate this plant.
THE VIRTUE OF ITS POWERS
As a nutritive food, dandelion has the most balanced mineral pattern of any vegetable. The tender spring leaves taste best, and can be used in salads or cooked alone or with other greens, like spinach, mustard, collards, beet, etc. It is a bitter herb, but the taste is mild. Dandelion root can be dried, and ground into an herbal “coffee.” It is easy to identify, and a handy herb to learn and use.
The dried leaves of dandelion are a mild diuretic, especially used in teas. Neither the taste nor the smell are offensive. Diuretics affect elimination through the kidneys, increasing urine output. Drink extra water if you use diuretic herbs. Unlike some diuretics, dandelion doesn’t leach potassium. It is potassium rich, so any loss is replaced by the herb. It can be used in weight loss, and for edema.
The root of the dandelion has a different effect. It is a mild laxative, promotes peristalsis, and is considered cleansing to the liver. An infusion of the root has been used for gallstones, jaundice, and liver problems. In combination - leaves and root - dandelion can be used as a minor detoxifier. Use fresh leaves and root when they are available in spring. Dried leaves and root will work, too. Minor detox is favorable, since it can be gently employed in moderation now and again. Dandelion root can be tinctured, too, then taken by adding a few drops to tea. The fresh milky sap of dandelion is said to remove warts.
BAD DREAMS
The flower essence derived from dandelion, a potent steam distillation extraction, is used to help those of us who suffer with bad dreams. It helps make dreams less disturbing, and more helpful. This essence is applied transdermally to pulse points, or to the inner right ear. We are empowered with answers received in dreamtime, rather than troubled by a fretful sleep experience.