Most people think of the humble dandelion flower as being a nuisance, a reason to get out the weed control and spray the entire yard. In our society, people tend to think that dandelions scattering the lawn means an unmanicured lawn. Little do those same people know just exactly how beneficial this “drab” flower really is, and how greatly it can benefit our health! Dandelions are hardy plants, growing in dry soil and adapting to areas that are difficult to grow plants in. They are also smart little flowers! Ever notice that dandelions pop up shortly after the lawn is mowed? These flowers know to grow back shorter the next time so the lawn mower blades don’t reach them. How amazing is that? Instead of getting frustrated with their persistence, let’s discover their benefits and enjoy them! 🙂
- Flowering head and root – either of these parts are used to treat gallbladder, liver and kidney ailments. You can make flower or root tea, or tinctures. They are a healing agent for water retention problems, great for detoxifying the kidneys. They stimulate the secretion of bile from the liver, which cleanses the liver and leads to cleansing of the blood. Also used as a digestive tonic, they help the body to break down food more effectively. A
cup of tea can be drunk before each meal to ensure better digestion.
- Leaves – can be used in salads or be cooked. The leaves taste best when the plant is young before the flower has blossomed, though they can be consumed anytime.
- Stem – the juice from inside the stem heals warts! Simply cut into the stem and squeeze the liquid onto the wart and allow it to dry. The wart should start flaking off after each application. Repeat this a few times a day until the wart is gone (usually a week or two).
After dandelions go to seed, the seeds can be carried away by the wind for miles. Where the seeds land is right where new flowers will bloom. Dandelions bloom from Spring to Fall, or whenever the weather is warmer.
Jill is a Christian and has been married to her dear husband for 11
years. She’s a homeschool mom of 4 and is thankful for the goodness of God every moment of her daily life. She is a certified family herbalist with a passion to read and research health and natural remedies, and share with others the knowledge she gains. You can
find her blogging at
Jill’s Home Remedies and connect with her on Facebook and Twitter.