The humble dandelion 🌿 has so many wonderfuf health benefits, you won't walk past them and see them in the same light again :)
Dandelions are jam packed with many health promoting properties.
Here are a few of their health benefits but this is by no means a complete list. I would love to hear how these wonder weeds have helped you, please comment below :)
Dandelion benefits:
• Reduce cholesterol & high blood pressure
• High in antioxidants which help fight free radicals
• Supports liver & kidney health
• Supports the immune system
• Helps fight disease causing bacteria
• Promotes skin health
I use dandelions to help reduce inflammation caused by the autoimmune conditions psoriasis, vitiligo and psoriatic arthritis that I've had for many years.
I often use dandelion in conjuction with other herbs such as nettles, red clover and burdock as this combo is great at purifying the blood, cleansing the liver and reducing inflammation.
I find alongside an antiinflammatory diet, plenty of rest and gentle exercise, I can keep my symptoms mostly at bay :)
You can use all parts of the dandelion plant, the flowers, leaves and roots :)
Here I have harvested the root which is much easier to do when the ground is wet after rainfall.
I have simply tried to ease out (using the handle end of a spoon) as much of the root as possible.
Shaken off excess soil.
Washed thoroughly and chopped up into small 1/4 to 1/2 cm pieces.
As this is a root is needs to be infused for longer than leaves.
So use a method called 'decoction' which is simply simmering the root for 10 mins or so.
Once the heat is off, I then add in any herbal leaves to infuse with the deocoction for a further 5 mins or so.
I often make a batch for the day (approx 3 mugs worth), leaving it to sit together infusing all day (this does make for a very strong brew) and pour myself a cup as a when.
Enjoy harvesting and brewing :) and please do let me know how you get along and / or your top herbal tips xx