Dandelion – Friend or Foe?
Dandelion is not a weed. Let me repeat– Not a weed.
Like so many, I grew up thinking the dandelion was an enemy in the yard, one of the greatest foes in the fight for a perfect green lawn, but it’s actually one of our greatest allies. The dandelion is a full spectrum plant, meaning it’s completely edible – the blooms, the greens, and the root. For centuries, it was found in both the kitchen and the medicine cabinet, with a rich history of use similar to burdock and ashwagandha roots.
Dandelion, Taraxacum officinale, derived its name from the French, dent-de-lion, meaning “lion’s tooth.” The first use of dandelion recorded in writing dates back to 659 BC in ancient China, and then later noted by Arab physicians in the 10th century. Traditional uses ranged from promoting better digestion to supporting detoxification and healing the liver. In the US, various indigenous cultures considered it a prized edible, chewing on the root to relieve pain, while others steamed the leaves and applied them topically to ease sore throats.
According to Dr. Axe, “While it’s not treated as a drug, as a supplement it offers protection against oxidative stress, liver disease, high cholesterol and blood pressure, high blood sugar, cancer, kidney issues, and infections.”
Let’s redeem the Dandelion!
For this brew we made our own decoction to maximize the functional benefits. We combined the decoction with a curated tea blend of black, oolong, and kukicha teas. It’s smooth, earthy, and made with only a few simple ingredients. It’s important to source dandelion in an area that you know has not been sprayed. It is also available from organic sources online like Mountain Rose Herbs.
In the war against the dandelion, the tides are turning in its favor. If you’re beginning a journey into herbs, natural health, or foraging, what better place to begin than with the indefatigable, unconquerable, resilient, and recognizable Dandelion?
Stop by the Taproom for a sampling of Dandelion Root Beer Kombucha, full of both flavor and supportive function.
Further research and Recipes:
Dandelion Root Benefits, Uses, Side Effects Ayurveda Insights
Dandelion Root Benefits, How to Use and Side Effects – Dr. Axe