Monday, April 1, 2013
Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale)
In England this plant used to be believed to ward off witches if picked on Midsummer's Eve; called 'witch gowan'. This "weed" has been considered a pest in America however this herb is wonderfully medicinal. So much so that in place where is doesn't grow naturally, such as China and Japan, they have farms/greenhouses devoted to growing this plant for medicinal uses. For years in America this herb has been used to treat kidney diseases. This herb can be uses to fight acne or eczema along with flushing accumulated waste in the liver. This herb is rich in Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, manganese, and potassium. The leaves of this plant contains more protein than spinach.; the leaves alone are 14% protein. This plant is also loaded with antioxidants and vitamins.The nutrients in dandelion greens may help reduce the risk of cancer, multiple sclerosis, cataracts, age-related muscular degeneration and stroke. Dandelion contains anti-inflammatory properties which provide benefit to those with asthma and other inflammatory diseases. This herb prefers rich, well drained soil in full sun. The seeds should be sowed in the spring, the leaves and fresh flowers can be picked anytime they flower but roots should be dug up in the second autumn.