More than a childhood prank
When I was a young girl my favorite prank was “pee-the-beds” I would get so excited to pick a dandelion, have one of my siblings close their eyes, and recite “Momma went upstairs, momma came down. Daddy went up the stairs, daddy came down, brother/sister went up the stairs, baby went up the stairs and pee’d all the way down” I would get a kick out of the yellow stain it left on their arms. Little did I know that dandelion would become one of my favorite herbs to create amazing “supplements”
My beautiful yellow stain is packed with vitamin A,C, K, calcium, iron, potassium and antioxidants. It acts as a natural diuretic, which helps with bloating, excess water and salt. Dandelions have high levels of polyphenols which helps protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce chronic inflammation. It has been known to help with individuals who suffer from eczema and acne!
The “milky sap” can be used to treat warts and corns when applied directly.
The entire dandelion plant is edible and each serves a different health purpose. Young leaves are less bitter and great for salads; flowers can make fritters or wine; roots can be roasted for a coffee substitute; and even the crown is usable! (AVOID ROAD SIDE DANDELIONS, THEY MAY HAVE PESTICIDES OR NEAR TRAFFIC)
So before you get upset that they keep coming back, think about all of the benefits this beautiful yellow stain can bring to your table, body, and mind!
