Dandelion – A Delicious Healing Flower + A Salad Recipe
From the spring through early summer and again in the fall, dandelions pop up all over our lawn – but they’re usually weed-whacked away like unwanted pests. What many don’t realize is that they’re destroying a medicinal powerhouse that their bodies often need. In France, a centuries-old heritage of herbalism plays a large part in their legendary cuisine. Because of its versatility, both as a food and a medicine, the dandelion is a cherished ingredient in prized dishes from Paris to Marseille.
Health benefits
1. Liver health: the dandelion, or Taraxacum officinale is an incredible detoxifier. It contains potent oils and bitter resins that folk healers and doctors have prescribed for liver health for centuries. It also helps to maintain the proper flow of bile while stimulating the liver – this is the beginning of a positive feedback loop or upward spiral, which promotes proper digestion. This in turn decreases the chance of constipation, thus leading to a lower chance of developing more serious gastrointestinal problems.
2. Anti-aging: the root and leaves of the dandelion are rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and Luteolin, which prevent free radical damage to our cells and DNA. This is believed to substantially slow the aging process.
3. Good for Bones: Dandelions are a good source of calcium, and probably the richest herbal source of vitamin K, both of which are great for bone health.
4.Reduces Inflammation: dandelions contain phytonutrients and essential fatty acids that reduce inflammation in the body.
5. Potential Anti-cancer Effects: dandelions contain active chemical constituents that are currently being studied for their ability to act against cancer cells. Luteolin, mentioned above, “sterilizes” cancer cells and prevents them from reproducing by deactivating key components of the cells when it binds to them.
6. Memory function: the leaves are rich in choline which is proven to aid in restoring memory.
7. Weight Loss & Blood Pressure: dandelions are diuretic in nature and by promoting urination, “water weight” can be shed and blood pressure can be lowered.
Summer dandelion salad recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 4 tables spoons dried dulse
- 2 tablespoons minced red onion
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bunch of dandelion greens
- 2 tablespoons raw pumpkin seed
- 1 ounce of parmesan cheese (if vegan, substitute with nutritional yeast)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
Preparation:
- In a blender, mix the shallot, mustard, vinegar and dulse. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour into a small bowl and whisk in the oil in a slow stream.
- Rinse / dry the dandelion greens and toss them in a large salad bowl with the dressing.
- Lastly, top with either the parmesan or if you are a vegan, substitute with nutritional yeast.
*4 Servings – Enjoy!
Source: www.thesacredscience.com
