“What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered.”
This quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson could possibly ring true in the minds of those who have not studied the use of herbs for health and wellness, although to many a weed is a weed, with no merit other than being a nuisance in their monoculture. , well-kept front garden. For those of us who work with plants, we know the value and potential of many of the so-called ‘weeds’.
This brings us to our Herb of the Month, the humble (or highly respected) Dandelion, known by its Latin binomial name: Taraxacum officinale. This little ray of sunshine belongs to the Asteraceae or Daisy family. It is native to Europe, Asia and North Africa, but can be found almost anywhere, especially in disturbed soils and soils that are deep, moist and rich. It can even reach a height of 3,000 meters, just like in the Himalayas.
The first recorded history of this plant occurred in China in 659 BCE and later in the 10th century by Arab physicians. Next came recorded use in Welsh practices and then the practice spread widely throughout Europe. History shows that the Native American peoples of North America also used this plant for food and health supporting properties. The history of use can also be found in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, in the Czech Republic and in Austria.
Dandelion is a perennial herb with deeply serrated leaves that form a basal rosette at the base, from which a stem rises with a yellow, ray-like flower head attached to it. The flower closes at night and in cloudy weather and opens again in the morning when the sun shines. It also has a thick, dark brown taproot that appears white due to the inner pulp.
Both the leaves and roots are used to support health and well-being. The plant has been used by herbalists to support the healthy function of the liver, gallbladder, digestive system, spleen and kidneys. The young spring leaves, rich in minerals, especially potassium, have been used as food throughout history, whether eaten fresh in salads, steamed or cooked like spinach.
However, the leaves become quite bitter as they age during the season and become less tasty. This bitter property makes it excellent for supporting and strengthening the digestive system and allowing the liver to function optimally. Because of this, and thanks to their effect on the lymphatic system, they support the body’s natural detoxification processes and help the body remove waste products. The root is more commonly used for digestive problems and liver support and has a deeper effect than the leaves. Due to its rich mineral content, Dandelion can support healthy urination, allowing the body to remove excess fluid.
Dandelion is also used to balance the menstrual cycle in women and can provide comfort with premenstrual bloating, tension and tenderness of the breast tissue. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the plant’s energies are said to be bitter, drying and cooling and enter the spleen, stomach, liver, kidney and bladder meridians. The leaves and roots can be used as food (young green leaves), as a tea or made into a tincture. The root is most commonly used as a tincture, but is also roasted and ground and can be used as a coffee alternative, on its own or with a mixture of other roasted roots (usually chicory, carob).
Here is a simple and tasty recipe for roasting dandelion roots:
Roasted dandelion root recipe
Ingredients:
- Fresh dandelion roots
- Olive oil or your favorite cooking oil
- Salt (optional)
- Optional spices: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or any other spices you like
Instructions:
- Harvest: Make sure you harvest dandelions in an area that is free of pesticides or other contaminants. Dig around the base of the dandelion plant to loosen the soil and then gently pull out the roots. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Preparation: Cut off any remaining stems or small roots from the dandelion roots. Scrub them under cold water to remove any remaining dirt.
- To dry: Place the carrots on a clean tea towel or paper towel and let them dry for about 30 minutes to an hour. This will help remove excess moisture.
- To cut: Preheat your oven to 190°C. Cut the dandelion roots into uniform pieces, similar in size to French fries or thick matchsticks. This ensures an even roasting time.
- Spices: Mix the dandelion root pieces with olive oil in a bowl until evenly coated. If desired, sprinkle with salt and any other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder or paprika powder. Stir again to distribute the spices evenly.
- Roasting: Spread the seasoned dandelion root pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even cooking.
- Baking: Roast the dandelion roots in the preheated oven for about 25-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Cooling: Once roasted, remove the dandelion roots from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it as a tasty snack or side dish!
WishGarden Herbs’ formulas with dandelion:
Postpartum Emotional Baby Blues, Deep Cleansing and Blooming, Genius Juice Cognitive Aid, Liver Power, Male Mojo Libido Enhancer, Cycle Vitality 2 Luteal Phase Progesterone Support, Cycle Harmony Hormone Support, Urinary Strength Active Support, Clear Complexion Blemish Buster, Party Prep: For a Better Morning After, relief from morning sickness.
Dr. Shawn Manske, ND is a registered naturopathic doctor in the state of Colorado. He attended the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and received his degree and initial license in Ontario, where he worked in clinical practice before moving to Colorado. Dr. Shawn is currently a Senior Educator and Territory Accounts Manager for WishGarden Herbs. He has a passion and love for teaching herbal medicine and especially loves bitters.
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, or to sell any product.
Read further