I’ve always liked dandelions. They bloom into beautiful bright, cheery, yellow flowers. I would often pick them as a child and add them to my violet bouquets. The contrast of the yellow and purple was beautiful to me.
I also loved when they turned into fluffy seed clouds that I could blow into the wind like bubbles.
Many often think of dandelions as being an invasive weed. Those same people bring in pesticides to remove them from their lawns because it is so undesired. I’m not sure what started this trend because they actually are full of vitamins A, C, K and more, making them quite medicinal.
Other than being cheery flowers, dandelions actually have many health benefits. Here’s an article from healthline.com that details out many of those.
I’ve drank dandelion tea for years to ease bloating. I add a bag of dandelion tea to an infuser carafe full of spring water along with a touch of cranberry juice, aloe juice and lemon juice for a tasty and healthy alternative to plain water. I learned about it via health and wellness expert Jillian Michaels. Her website also discusses the anti-aging benefits of dandelion tea.
Read even more about the health benefits of dandelion tea via this article on Livestrong.com. Please note that the article relays the fact that if you have allergies to ragweed and related plants, you should research more before adding dandelion to your diet.
Google “dandelion recipes” and you’ll see many chefs have known about their versatility and nutrition for years. It makes me look forward to trying to add some to my recipes this spring.
Maybe the next time you consider spraying down your lawn to remove the dandelions, consider pulling them out yourself and using them to help your health. Or, pick the flowers and give them to someone that appreciates their beauty, such as a child (or ME!).
Sending my love and light out to anyone who needs it!