
Dandelions are starting to spring up. This plant is not an annoying weed that clutters your lawn; but rather is a food and a medicinal plant. In fact, every part of the dandelion can be used. The root is a digestive bitter, which stimulates the liver, induces the flow of bile, and cleanses the hepatic system. Roasted dandelion root is used as a coffee substitute. Dandelion leaf is high in vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, iron and vitamins A and C. It tones the kidneys and is a safe diuretic, without the potassium loss. Lastly, the flowers, infused in oil, make a wonderful massage oil for dry skin, as well as for stiff joints and tired or achy muscles. You can use dandelions (that are gathered from unsprayed lawns or fields) in a salad, as a coffee substitute, in a tea, or as a liquid extract. Also, this wonderful weed is the first food for the bees after the cold winter months, so don’t over pick it. There are enough dandelions for us all.
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