All About Dandelions
“Weeds are flowers too, once you get to know them.”
I’ve said it before friends, but dandelions are more than just some pesky weed. They have so many valuable uses that will make you think twice before trimming your yard this summer.
I’ve always loved when these yellow beauties begin popping. Their color is so pretty and add a perfect contrast to the green (or brown) grass. But of course, they get mowed over and trimmed down in all yards. But over the last several years I’ve found incredible uses for dandelions that I hope will change your view on these golden goodies.
One of my favorite uses for dandelions is in a homemade salve. You may have seen my Dandelion Salve for sore muscles, achy joints and dry skin. I seriously love this stuff and always keep a stockpile on hand. I also love sharing this salve with my friends and family – I mean, share the wealth, right?
Did you know every part of a dandelion is edible? From the flowers to the roots, it's possible to eat the entire dandelion as none of it is poisonous to humans. The dandelion is rich in nutrients, including protein, calcium, iron, and Vitamins A and C, and dandelions are good for digestion and may ease rheumatism or liver problems.
Although after reading this you may want to go picking all the dandelions, but remember to save some for the bees!
Dandelions can be used for greens, pesto, jelly, honey, and even better – wine! There are so many recipes out there and here’s a few that have interested me.
Its not easy being green… unless you’re a dandelion.
As with most greens, the plant leaves are best when they are young and tender. Ideally, gather dandelion leaves before the plant blooms as they will become increasingly bitter. These young dandelion leaves make an amazing addition to salads. You can also use them like other leafy greens and sauté in oil and garlic. Mmm.
Honey catches more flies than vinegar.
You can make some pretty amazing dandelion honey, that’s even vegan. I haven’t tried this one but am planning on it with my plethora of picked dandelions this summer.
But first, coffee.
Did you know you can forage the dandelion root and use it to make coffee? The long root can be dried, roasted and ground and although dandelion coffee is caffeine-free, it still has a bold flavor that tastes just like coffee.
Wine is just juice with more life experience.
It’s true, dandelions can be used in wine making. Hello! Dandelion wine is an aromatic, lightly floral dry or sweet wine that tastes of sunshine and summertime. It's a good source of vitamins A, B, and C and potassium. Even better.
Pretty interesting to see so many incredible uses for something considered an annoying weed. But remember a few important tips my friend;
Please only eat dandelions from areas that you know don’t use chemical weedkillers. This is very important.
Avoid public areas where dogs may have peed on them.
Some people can have an allergic reaction to the pollen of dandelion, so take care.
There you have it. The next time you see those yellow beauties begin to bloom, think twice before mowing them over. Pick the flowers and get making!
Peace & Love.
Nikki