Devoted Dandelions
One of our most beneficial, native plants is the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). Dandelions literally bring healing to us, as well as to our Earth.
First, all parts – leaves, root and flowers – are edible.
Dandelion flowers contain nutrients helpful for supporting improved liver function, for healthy nerves & memory, and for the health of the eyes. Eating them can legitimately foster happiness.
Dandelion greens provide protein plus a number of vitamins and minerals, benefitting immunity, eyes, and skin (among other things), and as a natural diuretic, they help flush toxins from the body. Dandelion leaf has also been used in combination with Atlantic kelp, dulse, and nettle leaf to help remove radiation from the body.
Dandelion root has a long history of being used to benefit liver function and to stimulate bile production to help digest (emulsify) fat. Dandelion root has been shown to further aid digestion by supporting healthy bacteria in our intestines. Researchers have reported that dandelion root also triggers apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells. A nice way to enjoy dandelion root is as a tea.
For our environment, dandelion, with her deep tap root, has been shown to be a dynamic accumulator of boron, calcium, copper, chloride, iron, sodium, and zinc. For any leaves we do not eat, allowing them to decompose or mulch in place (or added to the compost pile) subsequently benefits the health of other plants or grass. Dandelions also attract several beneficial insects, including lacewings and ladybugs.
Bonus! More than just food and medicine, dandelions can inspire in us the importance of faithful determination and perseverance, and inspire the pursuit of our highest happiness. Dandelions can also prompt courage and confidence, and their golden-yellow color can further encourage the assimilation of higher wisdom and remaining flexible and optimistic as we navigate life. With dandelions, our soul mission and our life path can be realigned: a recipe for attainment and ascension.
The persistence with which dandelions continue to appear despite attempts by some to eradicate them signifies their unrelenting and resolute support of humanity. Their benefits to us physically as well as epi-physically are almost boundless. Dandelions are definitely plants to admire and cherish. Please let them live!