Many people see the dandelion as a weed that grows on lawns, paths, and sidewalks and near curbs. In fact, the benefits of dandelion and its leaves are enormous. This is evidenced by history and many modern facts and discoveries. It can be eaten while receiving many nutrients that are super beneficial to your health.
The fight against hepatitis, cholecystitis, gastritis, and pancreatitis is very exhausting for the patient. Dandelions are a wonderful plant that is used in the treatment of these diseases. Moreover, it is recommended to use it for joint pain and for those who have problems with the bladder. The composition of leaves and roots includes components that have hemostatic properties. Some gynecologists attribute such decoctions to their patients.
Here are all the ways to cook dandelion and enjoy its benefits.
All forms of dandelions are edible, they are easy to pick and clean, they cook in 5 minutes, they are free and they are excellent for health.
Benefits of dandelion leaves
- Dandelion leaves are very rich in vitamin A: a handful is equivalent to several kilos of pears and oranges and two handfuls of spinach.
- They also contain vitamins B1, B2, C and E, and most of the mineral salts: calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chlorine, sulfur, iron, manganese, silicon.
- It is an excellent diuretic and a powerful detoxifier (cf. medicinal uses).
- The dandelion leaf acts on arthritis and rheumatism.
Benefits of Dandelion Roots
The dandelion root, of the pivoting type, has multiple virtues:
- helps the body to eliminate waste;
- promotes the functioning of the digestive system and liver and bile functions;
- stimulates appetite;
- improves the skin condition in case of acne, eczema and psoriasis problem;
- relieves inflammation of joints;
- relieves chronic constipation;
- helps remove cellulite.
Harvest dandelion
- The dandelion leaves are harvested in the spring, ideally before flowering. Beware of roadsides and very well-kept spaces with lots of pesticides and herbicides. Prefer abandoned land, or take it in your garden if you do not treat it. You can also grow it on your balcony, the harvest is guaranteed!
- The flowers are harvested at flowering.
- The roots are harvested in late autumnwhen the plant has stored the most energy before winter.
Using the dandelion in cooking
Make a dandelion salad
Very popular with connoisseurs, the dandelion salad is often seasoned with warm vinegar. With small bacon, hard-boiled eggs, or pieces of cheese, this plant delights the taste buds with its slight bitterness.
Taste them before they bloom, they will be more tender and less bitter.
- Cut the dandelions at their base, even without protecting the root, you are likely to find it next season.
- Wash them.
- Cut the leaves finely.
- Add boiled eggs cut into small pieces, minced garlic, and grilled bacon.
- Season with a rather spicy vinaigrette, with balsamic vinegar for example.
Cooking the cooked dandelion
- Dandelion can be used as a quiche, pie, herb cake - both as herb and as spinach.
- It can accompany a dish of spaghetti, once sautéed in a pan and cut into pieces.
Dandelion soup recipe
Here is an example of dandelion soup:
- 2 potatoes cooked in a chicken broth.
- 2 handfuls of dandelion and 1 sliced onion returned to the pan with 2 cloves of garlic.
- We empty the pan in the broth and mix everything with a hand blender.
Dandelion jam recipe
The flowers are suitable for making a jam, also known as dandelion honey.
Ingredients:
- 365 dandelion flowers
- 2 untreated oranges
- 2 untreated lemons
- 1 kg lump sugar
- 1 liter of cold water
Preparation:
- Remove the petals from the dandelion flowers. Let them air out for half an hour.
- Put the flowers in a large saucepan or pot full of water.
- Add the oranges and lemons, washed and cut into rings.
- Let the temperature rise, and, at the first broth, lower the heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Cover and let stand for a few hours.
- Filter the mixture.
- Add the sugar cubes and let the mixture boil.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, skimming regularly.
- As soon as it begins to thicken, put the jam jars.
Cooking the roots
The roots are cooked in boiling water for about twenty minutes, then they are seasoned with oil. Their flavor is close to salsify.
The roots are also used to prepare a drink whose bitterness is reminiscent of chicory.
Even the buttons are good!
The buttons, when they are close to the ground, very firm, have a good nutty taste. If it takes patience to pick them up, the reward comes when they are tasted, accompanied by hazelnut oil and balsamic vinegar, and garnished with strips of smoked duck breast, for example.
Dandelion honey: cramaillotte
Very melliferous plant, the dandelion provides honey of golden color, which surprises by its very sweet flavor, also called cramaillotte.
Ingredients required
- About 365 dandelion flowers
- 1 kg of brown sugar
- 1 orange
- 2 untreated lemons
Preparation
- Pick the flowers, leaving the stem in place (beware, the stems release milk which darkens the fingers).
- Wash them, let them dry in the sun for a few days.
- On the day of preparation, pass the flowers quickly under the water.
- Pour them into a bowl with 1.5 L of water, the orange and lemons cut into pieces.
- Cook for 45 mins at a gentle boil.
- Filter the juice from this cooking with a colander, squeezing the flowers.
- Boil it again with the sugar (about 45 min) until you get a jelly.
- Put it in a pot.
To taste pancakes or sandwiches!
Make cosmetic masks with dandelion
Dandelion juice lightens the complexion and fights against acne, eczema and other minor skin sores. Make it a mask, to apply a few hours before an important outing, a ceremony, a photo session, etc.
Dandelion mask recipe
- Wash two handfuls of dandelion leave thoroughly.
- Pass them in the blender with 1 tablespoon of crème fraîche.
- Apply this puree on the face and neck and lie down for half an hour.
- Avoid the eye area.
- Rinse with a dandelion toner, the recipe for which is given above (decoction).
Dandelion and clay mask recipe
Here is another mask recipe, perfect for softening and rehydrating dry skin that tends to pull:
- In a bowl, put 2 tablespoons of white clay, 2 teaspoons of sweet almond oil and a handful of mixed dandelion greens.
- Mix perfectly, apply as before.
- Rinse with the dandelion decoction.
These two masks are to be used at once. Do not keep them, the leaves will soon lose their virtues!
Good to know: the juice of dandelion stems, applied twice a day, has an action on corns and warts. Start the application slowly, as the latex present in the juice can cause skin allergies in some sensitive people.
There are many recipes for dandelion salads. Here are some of them:
- Young freshly picked leaves are finely chopped, chopped onion, the carrot is added in half rings. Salad is salted, and as a dressing, they use either sour cream or lemon juice with olive oil.
- You can make a salad only from dandelion leaves. They must first be soaked in salted water for a couple of hours, and then finely chopped, add salt and sugar to taste. The dressing can be apple cider vinegar with olive oil or low-fat sour cream.
- Dandelion leaves are washed and soaked in salted water for about an hour. Then boil them for 10-15 minutes until they become soft, then cut and mix with chopped green onions. To greens add salt, spices, and sugar to taste, lemon juice, and olive oil. Within 50 minutes, the greens should absorb the spices. Then, cheese is cut into medium cubes in it, and the salad is served on the table.
- For this salad, take 0.1 kg of dandelion leaves soaked in saltwater in advance, and a few tablespoons of chopped walnuts. Leaves are cut and mixed with nuts. The dressing is honey, which is mixed with vegetable oil.
- 0.1 kg of dandelion leaves are soaked for half an hour in saltwater, then finely chopped. Chopped green onions and parsley are added to them. Pre-boil the egg. Greens are seasoned with apple cider vinegar mixed with vegetable oil. Pre salt and pepper to taste. When serving, decorate the salad with finely chopped dill and chopped egg.
- Soak the leaves of dandelion in salt water to remove bitterness, then finely chopped. Mix with chopped parsley and green onions. Greens are salted and lemon juice mixed with vegetable oil is added as dressing.
FAQs
What can dandelion leaves be used for? ›
Dandelion leaves are used to add flavor to salads, sandwiches, and teas. The roots are used in some coffee substitutes, and the flowers are used to make wines. In the past, dandelion roots and leaves were used to treat liver problems.
What's the best way to eat dandelion leaves? ›Sauteed greens
Cooking dandelions eliminates some of the bitterness. First boil the greens for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a pan with hot olive oil and garlic, and sautee for 3-5 minutes. Eat as is or add to other dishes like pasta or scrambled eggs.
You should infuse dandelion flowers in an oil and rub onto the painful joints and muscles or painful areas. You should put fresh dandelion leaves in a mason jar and pour some base oil, such as olive or sweet almond oil to the top of the jar. Leave it for 14 days to infuse and then strain it.
How do you use all parts of a dandelion? ›If drying, chop them up into smaller pieces when fresh and then dry them. Use the vibrant yellow flowers of the dandelion to make wine, to infuse vinegar, oils, and honey, or to make tea. You can pull the petals off—the green parts are too bitter—and use them in desserts, like cookies, cakes, and frosting.
How do you use dandelions as a medicine? ›Both the root and leaves are used for liver support. The leaves can simply be eaten as a dandelion salad, or used to make dandelion pesto. Roasted dandelion root tea/coffee and dandelion root tincture are the most common medicinal preparations for the root.
What can you make out of dandelions? ›- Dandelion Flower Infused Oil. ...
- Dandelion Flower Salve. ...
- Dandelion Vinegar. ...
- Dandelion Jelly. ...
- Traditional Scandinavian Dandelion Syrup. ...
- Dandelion Soap. ...
- Dandelion Lotion Bars. ...
- Dandelion Tea.
Dandelions are edible weeds. Every part of the dandelion is edible: the flower, roots, stems, and leaves. Dandelion greens slightly resemble arugula, though longer, and have a similar spicy and bitter taste. You can harvest the blooms and leaves to make salads and sautéed dishes and use the roots to make tea.
What part of the dandelion is poisonous? ›The dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is an abundant “weed” plant that also happens to be edible. In fact, nearly the entire plant can be consumed in one way or another. The only inedible part is the stem, which contains a very bitter, milky substance.
Can you eat dandelion leaves from your yard? ›Dandelion greens are also edible. The best time to harvest the leaves is when they are still young and tender, before the plant begins to flower. Tender leaves taste great when chopped fresh into salad. As the leaves grow older they become increasingly bitter.
Is dandelion good for back pain? ›Dandelion contains essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that all reduce inflammation throughout the body. These can relieve pain and swelling.
Is dandelion good for nerves? ›
Dandelion is known to be a mild sedative, and therefore can have a very calming effect on the body and mind (3). As mentioned above, Dandelions are also loaded with important trace nutrients such as vitamin A, C, K, and magnesium – all of which can be very supportive for keeping anxiety levels at bay.
How do you use dandelion on your skin? ›Dandelions Are Anti-Inflammatory
Also, in traditional medicine the latex sap that exudes from the flower stem has been used to treat warts, age spots, and other small skin inflammations like bug bites and pimples. Simply dab a bit of sap on the affected area.
Dandelion Benefits for your Skin
Using dandelion leaves and flowers on your skin can help with protecting your skin against sun damage. Dandelions are rich in antioxidants, which we know are great for our skin!
Dandelion leaves, stems, and flowers are often consumed in their natural state and can be eaten cooked or raw. The root is usually dried, ground, and used as a tea or coffee substitute.
Is dandelion a natural antibiotic? ›Researchers have found that dandelions show both antiviral and antibacterial properties. For example, one 2014 study found that dandelions help limit the growth of hepatitis B in both human and animal cells in test tubes.
Is dandelion tea an antibiotic? ›In summary, the antimicrobial efficacy of dandelion root extracts demonstrated in this study support the use of dandelion root as a source of natural antimicrobial compounds.
How do you make dandelion leaf extract? ›- Cut up the whole Dandelion plant - root, stem, leaves and flowers.
- Add the plant material to a jar, pack it in tightly.
- Cover the plant in 100 proof Vodka or pure grain alcohol. ...
- Cover the jar and label it. ...
- Share the jar as often as possible and let sit for at least 6 weeks.
Dandelion tea is an excellent source of potassium, a mineral and electrolyte that stimulates the heartbeat. Potassium may help the kidney filter toxins more effectively and improve blood flow. The polysaccharides in dandelion are known to reduce stress on the liver and support its ability to produce bile.
Can you make fabric out of dandelions? ›Actually, it is pretty easy to make natural dye from plants such as dandelion flowers, blueberries, sumac or lichen. All you need to know is how to properly mordant the yarn (or fabric) and which natural dyeing method works best.
What is the healthiest part of the dandelion? ›The root of the dandelion is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, a type of soluble fiber found in plants that supports the growth and maintenance of healthy gut bacteria in your digestive tract ( 2 ).
Are raw dandelions poisonous? ›
Dandelions are safe to eat in moderation. Eating dandelions regularly or taking supplements that contain dandelion may cause health problems for people with diabetes or people who take certain medications, such as blood thinners, lithium or diuretics. Some people have allergic reactions to dandelions.
How do you prepare dandelions to eat? ›Soak the leaves in cold, salted water for 10 or 15 minutes, then cook them in boiling water until tender (no more than five minutes). Finish by sautéing the boiled greens with some olive oil, onion or garlic. Top with Parmesan cheese. Flowers: Dandelions' sunny blossoms give color to a salad.
What happens when you put a dandelion under your chin? ›If you rub a dandelion under your chin and your skin turns yellow, you like butter -- at least according to an old wives tale found in cultures worldwide. Blow away the dandelion seeds and you can tell the future by counting how many seeds are left, according to other superstitions.
Can dandelions help your heart? ›Dandelion leaves are also believed to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system due to their high potassium content (397 mg potassium/100 g) [19,23]; indeed, increased potassium intake with food (about 3500 mg/day for an adult) has been found to lower blood pressure [23].
Who should avoid taking dandelion? ›Do not use dandelion if you are taking a blood thinner, such as warfarin. You should also avoid dandelion if you have gallbladder problems, have diabetes or are taking medicine to control blood sugar levels, or are taking a diuretic.
Are dandelion greens healthier raw or cooked? ›Calories and Carbs in Dandelion Greens
The fiber content of a 1-cup serving is higher in cooked greens – 3 grams of fiber for cooked, and 2 grams for raw. Fiber helps keep your digestive system running smoothly.
Dandelions Break Ground
“They are among the first weeds to colonize disturbed land where other plants won't grow. Their strong roots can break through the toughest soil and you will often find them growing through concrete,” a fact that frustrates lawn purists, because they absolutely flourish with soil and sun.
Background: Taraxacum officinale (TO) or dandelion has been frequently used to prevent or treat different liver diseases because of its rich composition in phytochemicals with demonstrated effect against hepatic injuries.
Who should not eat dandelion leaves? ›Do not use dandelion if you are taking a blood thinner, such as warfarin. You should also avoid dandelion if you have gallbladder problems, have diabetes or are taking medicine to control blood sugar levels, or are taking a diuretic.
Can humans eat dandelion leaves? ›Dandelion leaves to be eaten raw are best when they are fresh and young. As they age, the leaves get increasingly bitter. But they are still edible, particularly if you blanch them before using them in your recipe.
Can you eat fresh dandelion leaves? ›
All parts of a dandelion plant are edible, from the top of the yellow flower down to the roots. The green leaves of the dandelion can make a healthy addition to salads, sandwiches, omelets, and more.
Which part of the dandelion is poisonous? ›The dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is an abundant “weed” plant that also happens to be edible. In fact, nearly the entire plant can be consumed in one way or another. The only inedible part is the stem, which contains a very bitter, milky substance.
What is the healthiest part of the dandelion to eat? ›The root of the dandelion is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, a type of soluble fiber found in plants that supports the growth and maintenance of healthy gut bacteria in your digestive tract ( 2 ).
Does dandelion tea cause blood clots? ›Blood Pressure and Clotting
Because the potassium in dandelion may impact blood flow and clotting, it's best to avoid dandelion tea if you're taking blood-thinner medication.. For the same reason, someone who is taking blood pressure medication should avoid dandelion tea.
Supports liver health
Moreover, a 2017 study found that a carbohydrate present in dandelions called polysaccharides may indeed help protect the liver against disease and support overall liver function.
Dandelion leaf is a safe and gentle herb for stimulating the kidneys and helping them to function efficiently. It contains bitter glycosides, carotenoids, potassium, iron and other minerals, and is regularly used by herbalists to treat fluid retention which often causes swollen ankles and generally puffy skin.
Is dandelion tea toxic? ›The dandelion plant is generally considered safe for consumption, but, like other herbs, it can have adverse effects in some people. Dandelion root tea may negatively affect your digestive system, causing diarrhea, stomach inflammation or heartburn.
What part of the dandelion is good for your heart? ›Dandelion leaves are also believed to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system due to their high potassium content (397 mg potassium/100 g) [19,23]; indeed, increased potassium intake with food (about 3500 mg/day for an adult) has been found to lower blood pressure [23].