Dandelion: The Transformer
Dandelion is an herb that many see as a noxious weed. In fact it is one of the more important herbs in our herbal pharmacy. Western herbalists in England and Ireland used Dandelion about as regularly as Elder, Nettles, and Dock, evidencing its high regard as a tonic herb. Western herbalists are not the only ones to call on the medicine of the Dandelion; the Chinese were the first to identify its potent effects and there are many different species all over the world used by herbal practitioners of all traditions. The common dandelion we find in the US is Taraxacum officinale.
Dandelions have a host of benefits, most commonly being used to aid in liver function and blood cleansing and as a diuretic for urinary tract issues. It can help with many issues relating to digestion from the mouth all the way to the colon. These little unassuming plants contain
a wide array of beneficial constituents including antioxidants, beta-carotene, quercitin, and tannins. Along with assisting digestive and urinary function, topical applications can promote skin health as well.
There are many different ways to consume Dandelion: tea, tincture, decoction, salads, roasted root coffee, infused oils, pickled flower buds, pesto, etc. The list goes on and on because this plant has been an important food and medicine to countless generations. From roots to
flowers, dandelions are irreplaceable allies. Their ability to grow in most any environment gives us the courage to stay centered and flourish in even the most inhospitable spaces. Dandelion embodies the energy of change and transformation, providing a model for us to be gentle and diligent in our practices, that they may enact positive transformation in our being.
References:
https://www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbalgram/issues/109/table-of-contents/hg109-herbpro-dandelion/
https://www.herbrally.com/monographs/dandelion
https://thepracticalherbalist.com/advanced-herbalism/dandelion-history-folklore-myth-and-magic/
