Did you know that dandelion is a powerful medicine that helps the body to rejuvenate and heal itself? Yes, that’s correct, you heard well. It might be seen as a weed and useless by most people, but the reality is that dandelion is an herb that is very healthy and useful.

Dandelion starts to grow in spring for a reason. Spring is the time of renewal, refreshment, and vital energy. It’s the time of the year to detoxify the organism. It’s important to give the body a rest to help it rejuvenate. Herbs are wonderful as they act as balancers. Each herb is designed to have an effect on a specific tissue or part of the body. Dandelion helps to support the digestive system, as well as the liver, which is the largest gland in the body.

Dandelion has other health benefits. It increases bile production, regulates blood sugar, lowers and controls cholesterol levels, and boosts immune function. Dandelion is a green, and greens contain chlorophyll (the green blood of plants), which helps to cleanse and build the blood, as well as increase levels of oxygen. In Asian medicine, bitter greens are associated with the liver, emotional stability, and creativity.

The roots and leaves of the plant can be consumed. They can be juiced or used in smoothies, salads, sautés, or to make tea. Dandelion is a great source of beta-carotene and vitamin C, as well as alkaline minerals and iron. Dandelion is bitter so you might want to start slowly and balance its taste with something that is naturally sweet such as fruit or local honey. Dandelion capsules, tinctures, and teas are also available. You can even find dandelion coffee substitute at your health food store, which is actually really good and healthy. The flowers of the plant are used to make wine.

As you can see, dandelion is a very useful herb where the whole plant is consumed. It’s very easy to have access to it, and if you use one from your yard, make sure the roots and leaves are clean. You can also get fresh dandelion leaves from your farmer’s market or your health food store. I highly recommend drinking dandelion tea as well. Its taste is good, especially with a little local honey. We have to use and enjoy what Mother Nature puts on Earth to naturally heal ourselves.