Dandelion

Dandelion is a perennial plant with a thick base, a long, fusiform, reddish-brown root that is the width of a finger. The leaves, arranged in a rosette shape at the base of the plant, are deeply divided with serrated and pointed lobes, in a vibrant green. The yellow flowers, visible from May to November, are grouped into large terminal capitula at the end of the peduncles. All of the fruits together form a light downy ball whose pappi fly away with the first gusts of wind.

Latin name

Taraxacum officinale Weber

Origin

Western Europe.

Used part

The root.

Active components

Inulin: a polysaccharide with a prebiotic effect. Contributes to the health of the intestinal flora.

Phenolic compounds: have an antioxidant effect.

Bitter substances: stimulate the function of the liver and the digestive system.

Usage

Many gardeners and lawn owners consider dandelion a weed. It can be used as animal food. The flowers can simply be cooked as a syrup and eaten like honey. The young leaves are less bitter than the adult leaves and can be eaten in a salad. The leaves can be blanched by covering them with sand or an upturned flower pot. This process will make them less bitter. Dandelions are also commonly known as “wet the beds”, a name that refers to the effect of the plant. It contributes to kidney function and stimulates detoxification. 1-3 Thanks to the antioxidants, it protects against free radicals.