Did you ever wonder if dandelions are good for anything?

By David McClelland

Every spring, we see dandelions everywhere. Many put weed killer on their lawns to prevent dandelions and other wild plants from populating their lawns. Hard as they try, some dandelions pop up anyway around the edges and in the plantings. As you probably know, the flower heads are open during the day and closed at night. They spread rapidly if their seeds are left to dry and blow around the property.

Are they just weeds and good for nothing or do they have beneficial uses? My research revealed that the technical name is Taraxacum Officinale and they are native to Eurasia (Greece) and North America. They are entirely edible and contain vitamins A, B and C. They have been used medicinally since the 11^th century. German lore of the 16^th century tells us that the roots were used as a sedative. Dandelion leaves contain high levels of potassium and are said to be a powerful diuretic. The leaves contain 7,000 units of vitamin A per ounce.

Traditional uses: The root has been used as a detoxifier, working principally on the liver and gall bladder. The dandelion has been touted as beneficial for treating skin problems such as acne and eczema, as well as improving arthritic conditions.

All of the above are interesting facts and they may all be very true, but for most of us, dandelions are still a nuisance. Dandelion wine is another use of the flower. Recipes for making this wine abound on the internet. I haven't tried it. Have you?