Dandelions Friend or Foe?

"What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered" 

 Ralph Waldo Emerson

To many the dandelion is no more than a pesky invasive weed, but to us fellow herb lovers its a herb in disguise.

You could say of the dandelion "beauty is in the eye of the beholder".

Health Benefits of the Dandelion.

Dandelion greens are credited with a wide range of health benefits.

1. Dandelion greens can help lower blood sugar levels.

Some studies suggest that dandelion may help manage blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes.

2. Lower inflammation.  

Dandelion has anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially benefiting conditions such as arthritis.

3. Help Control cholesterol.

Dandelion greens affect lipid metabolism.

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your bloodstream. Having high triglycerides in your blood is one of the major risk factors for heart disease.

Dandelion greens have been shown to reduce the activity of pancreatic lipase, the enzyme that breaks triglycerides down into fatty acids. This leads to an increased excretion of triglycerides and a reduction in blood triglyceride levels.

Adding dandelions into your diet can be as simple as adding the leaves to salads, brewing dandelion tea, or using the roots in herbal remedies.

Below is a wonderful image explaining the many Benefits of Dandelions.

Created by - The Nerdy Farmwife

Dandelion Greens Nutrition

In addition to the many health benefits, dandelion greens offer your body a lot of nutrition in every bite.

In fact, dandelion greens are one of the most nutrient-dense greens you can eat.

Raw dandelion greens are a source of:  Calcium, Folate, Iron, Potassium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C.

The roots and leaves of dandelion offer flavonoids, phenolic acids, vitamins, and minerals, all with widespread health effects.

This nutrient dense plant can be eaten cooked or raw.

Dandelion root is often dried and made into tea, but you can also eat it whole like other root vegetables.

A Few Dandelion Recipes

https://www.lonelypinesfarm.com/how-to-make-dandelion-jelly/

Credit Recipe to Lonely Pines Farm

Dandelion Jelly

Dandelion Shortbread Cookies

Recipe link

https://www.anoffgridlife.com/dandelion-cookies-recipe/

Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

Here is a healthy dandelion salad from the website of:

https://www.bloomingglenfarm.com/maple-bacon-dandelion-greens/

Dandelions are best picked when young to prevent bitterness.

Also make sure the area you pick the dandelion from has not been sprayed with chemicals.

Benefits of Dandelion on your skin.

Wound Healing: 

Dandelions have been traditionally used to promote healing in minor cuts and bruises. Their antibacterial properties can help prevent infection and support skin recovery.

The Dandelion is a versatile plant with Many benefits for skin care.

Because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-nourishing properties, it is very beneficial for your skin.

• Always perform a patch test before using any new ingredient on your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

• Use organic dandelion if possible to avoid pesticides and chemicals.

Here are several ways to use dandelion in your skincare routine:

1. Dandelion Infused Oil:

• How to Make: Fill a jar with dandelion flowers and pour a carrier oil (like olive oil or jojoba oil) over them. Seal the jar and let it sit in a sunny spot for 1-2 weeks, shaking it occasionally. Strain the oil.

• Use: Apply the infused oil to dry or irritated skin to nourish and moisturize.

• 2. Dandelion Tea Toner:

• How to Make: Brew dandelion tea by steeping dried dandelion leaves or flowers in hot water for about 10 minutes. Let it cool and strain.

• Use: Use the cooled tea as a toner to help refresh and soothe your skin. Apply with a cotton pad after cleansing.

    3. Dandelion Face Mask:

• Ingredients: Combine fresh or dried dandelion leaves with honey and yogurt or aloe vera.

• How to Use: Apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with warm water. This mask can help brighten and hydrate the skin.

     4. Dandelion Salve:

• How to Make: Create a salve by combining dandelion-infused oil with beeswax. Melt them together, pour into a container, and let it cool.

• Use: Apply the salve to dry or chapped areas of the skin for added moisture and healing.

     5. Dandelion Soap:

From the website of sweet tea soapery

Dandelion Infused Oil Soap

https://www.sweetteasoapery.com/products/dandelion-infused-soap

           

Unscented Dandelion Soap https://www.sweetteasoapery.com/products/unscented-dandelion-soap

To some people the Dandelion will always remain the dreaded nuisance in the yard.

But maybe by reading about all the skin and health benefits that this little ball of sunshine has to offer you may stop and consider that maybe just maybe it is actually an herb in disguise.

Or as some may say a diamond in the rough.