What are the health benefits of eating dandelion?
Dandelion greens also provide considerable amounts of vitamins A and K. Both nutrients affect your blood. Vitamin K regulates the formation of blood clots, while vitamin A supports new blood cell growth. Vitamin A also plays a role in eye function and supports your immune system, while vitamin K helps maintain healthy bones.
Are dandelions healthy to eat?
From root to flower, dandelions are highly nutritious plants loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate, and small amounts of other B vitamins ( 1 ).
What is the nutritional value of dandelion?
Nutritional value of Dandelion Green. From root to flower, dandelion are highly nutritious plants, loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber. Dandelion greens is an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K. They also contain Beta-carotene and polyphenolic compounds, vitamin E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins
Are dandelions safe to eat from your yard?
Yes, you can eat dandelions from your yard (or your neighbors) if you know they are not treated with herbicides or pesticides. Dandelions are on the FDA’s list of safe foods, though some people are allergic to the plant. In fact, I fondly remember collecting dandelion blooms and leaves with my mom when I was a child.
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Is it safe to eat dandelion flowers?
Yes, the entire aerial portion is edible, including Dandelion's leaves, stalks, and buds, though if you really want to ingest more local nutrition and medicine from your landscape, eat the yellow flower. It may be the healthiest part of the plant.
Can I eat dandelions from my yard?
How to Eat Dandelions. Yes, you can eat dandelions that grow wild in your yard. Remember, avoid any dandelions that have been sprayed with fertilizer or any other toxic sprays.
What happens if you eat dandelions raw?
Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate, and small amounts of other B vitamins ( 1 ). What's more, dandelion greens provide a substantial amount of several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium ( 1 ).
What are the benefits of eating a dandelion?
The potential benefits of dandelion include:Providing antioxidants. Antioxidants work to neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. ... Reducing cholesterol. ... Regulating blood sugar. ... Reducing inflammation. ... Lowering blood pressure. ... Aiding weight loss. ... Reducing cancer risk. ... Boosting the immune system.More items...
What part of the dandelion is poisonous?
stemThe 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 disease can dandelion cure?
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), dandelion has been used to treat stomach problems, appendicitis, and breast problems, such as inflammation or lack of milk flow. In Europe, dandelion was used in remedies for fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea.
Who should avoid taking dandelion?
Do not take dandelion without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:lithium;an antibiotic, such as Cipro, Levaquin, Avelox, Noroxin, and others;a blood thinner or medicine to treat or prevent blood clots;a diuretic or "water pill";heart or blood pressure medication; or.More items...•
Can you eat dandelions without cooking them?
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.
What does a dandelion taste like?
The dandelion is one of the most common and recognizable varieties of edible weeds and is very versatile. The leaves have a slightly bitter and tangy flavor that can be used similarly to spinach. The flowers are also edible and can be used to infuse honey, vinegars.
Does eating dandelions help your heart?
Lowering cholesterol is a key step to reducing the risk of heart disease. Studies in animals have found that extracts from dandelion roots and leaves can naturally lower cholesterol levels.
What is the best way to eat dandelion?
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.
What are the side effects of using dandelion?
Dandelion might cause allergic reactions, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or heartburn in some people.
How do you prepare dandelions to eat?
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.
What happens if you eat too much dandelion?
When taken by mouth: Dandelion is likely safe for most people when consumed in the amounts commonly found in food. It is possibly safe when taken in larger amounts. Dandelion might cause allergic reactions, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or heartburn in some people.
How do you prepare dandelion greens to eat?
2:004:01Dandelion Greens 101 | how to cook dandelion greens - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe bottom of the stems can be a little bit tough and bitter. So what I like to do is chop them offMoreThe bottom of the stems can be a little bit tough and bitter. So what I like to do is chop them off right about where those elites begin.
Should I remove dandelions from my lawn?
Dig 'em Out Please don't bother with the time and expanse of using an herbicide on your entire lawn. Removing the dandelion's entire tap root is essential! If you remove just the dandelion flower and plant from the surface of the soil a new plant will grow.
Why do people use dandelion?
Traditional herbal medicine practices use dandelion for their diuretic effect based on the belief that this can detoxify certain organs.
What is a dandelion?
Dandelion are a family of flowering plants that grow in many parts of the world. They’re also known as Taraxacum spp., though Taraxacum officinale is the most common species. You may be most familiar with dandelion as a stubborn weed that never seems to leave your lawn or garden.
What are the two compounds in dandelion?
Chicoric and chlorogenic acid are two bioactive compounds in dandelion. They’re found in all parts of the plant and may help reduce blood sugar.
What is the fiber in dandelion root?
Inulin, a fiber found in dandelion root, may also support healthy bones through improved digestion and the promotion of healthy gut bacteria ( 32 ).
What are the nutrients in dandelion greens?
Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and serve as an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins ( 1 ). What’s more, dandelion greens provide a substantial amount of several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium ( 1 ). ).
Is dandelion a good antioxidant?
Dandelion are full of potent antioxidants, which may explain why this plant has such broad applications for health. Antioxidants are molecules that help neutralize or prevent the negative effects of free radicals in your body. Free radicals are a product of normal metabolism but can be very destructive.
Is dandelion a diuretic?
In Western medicine, diuretic medications are used to rid the body of excess fluid, which can lead to lowered blood pressure. One human study found dandelion to be an effective diuretic. However, this study was done over a short period and involved only 17 people ( 11. Trusted Source.
What is the best way to eat dandelion?
Eating more dandelion can be as simple as sprinkling a handful of chopped leaves into your next salad. It will get your digestive system pumping and primed for a summer diet of mostly raw vegetables... and hot dogs and ice cream.
What is the botanical name of dandelion?
The botanical name for dandelion is Taxacum officinale, and it is a member of the daisy family. In its name we get a glimpse of this mighty plant’s importance. “Officinale” essentially means used in medicine: plants bearing the designation “officinale" could be found in ancient pharmacies.
Is dandelion a reliable plant?
Dandelion is a reliable plant. Despite thousands of Americans armed with weed wackers, herbicide, and lawnmowers, dandelion is thriving. It survives being stepped on, peed on, and paved over. Call it hippy dippy BS if you want, but I believe the determination of dandelion translates to our bodies once it’s inside.
Is a bitter leaf good for you?
It is jam-packed with Vitamin A, E, K, B6, B2, B1, and C. The leaves are bitter, and the intensity increases over the summer. If you start now, you will become more tolerant to this bitterness as the summer progresses. Bitter flavors are great for digestion and curbing sugar cravings.
Do dandelion roots clean up?
Out in the world, dandelion roots do the dirty work of cleaning up, like removing lead from soil. (If you’re unsure of soil toxicity, best not to pick & eat for now.) Its roots are deep and skilled at grabbing onto and pulling up minerals. I find a powder of the roasted roots most helpful in the morning or as a midafternoon pick me up. I like to mix a teaspoon with 8 oz. of warm hemp milk and a spoonful of honey. It tempers my craving for caffeine and gently encourages my system to get working.
Why are dandelions beneficial?
Dandelions contain a number of beneficial plant compounds and are being studied for diverse uses in disease treatment, including cancer and type 2 diabetes. Dandelion is a diuretic, one of the reasons it’s considered helpful for flushing out waste.
What are the benefits of dandelion?
Health Benefits of Dandelion 1 The greens are extremely nutritious, full of vitamins and minerals, like vitamins A & K, and calcium as well as magnesium and potassium. ( Nutrition data here.) They’re also rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which have been shown to protect health in numerous ways. 2 Dandelions contain a number of beneficial plant compounds and are being studied for diverse uses in disease treatment, including cancer and type 2 diabetes. 3 Dandelion is a diuretic, one of the reasons it’s considered helpful for flushing out waste. Herbalists turn to dandelion for liver support, which helps to remove metabolic waste from the body. 4 The root contains inulin, a prebiotic (good for gut health ), as well as bitter compounds considered valuable for digestion. 5 Compounds in dandelion flowers are considered very soothing to the skin, so you’ll find them starring in a number of soaps, salves, and lotions in much the same way as calendula. You’ll find some ideas below.
What leaves are good for pizza?
If you like bitter greens, you’ll love dandelion leaves, which have a little bite like arugula. I use them primarily in salads and as pizza toppings. If you’ve ever enjoyed a pizza topped with arugula, you’ll likely also go for dandelion greens.
What are some plants that are similar to dandelion?
Other plants that bear some resemblance to dandelion include wild lettuce ( Lactuca ), sow thistle ( Sonchus ), and hawkweed ( Hieracium ).
Why do you harvest dandelions?
Whether or not you’re into herbal medicine or foraging, you might want to reconsider your relationship to dandelions for three reasons: Dandelions are both nutritious and delicious, making harvesting dandelions a useful way to get more food from your yard.
What are some edible plants?
Other common “weeds” you might not have realized are edible include Virginia waterleaf, wood sorrel, edible clover, and creeping Charlie. Cleavers is another common wild plant with edible and medicinal uses.
How many recipes are there for dandelion?
Ready for some fantastic ways to enjoy the benefits of dandelion? Here are more than 35 recipes for the greens, flowers, and roots, plus how to use this plentiful garden herb in skincare!
How long does it take for dandelion to make tea?
To make your tea, you’ll need to finely chop the dandelion roots first. Then, add the root into a cup with boiling water and steep for 2-3 minutes. You can either make your own tea bags or steep the roots directly in the water and strain it after. Then, add a bit of honey to cut the bitterness.
What is the most nutritious green?
Dandelions are some of the most nutritionally dense greens you can eat. They are far more nutritious than kale or spinach. Dandelions are full of vitamins and antioxidants. In fact, a half-cup of dandelion greens has more calcium than a glass of milk!
Is dandelion good for you?
I know…you may be shocked by this, but it’s true. Dandelions are a superfood high enough in vitamin levels to put even kale and spinach to shame.
Can dandelion be eaten raw?
Blanch the greens first, then saute them in oil with garlic. Young greens can be eaten raw in salads or in sandwiches.
Can you dry dandelion petals?
Use fresh or dried petals as a garnish in salads and desserts. Young dandelion petals have a honey-like flavor; mature blossoms are bitter but still nutritious and pretty. You can dry the flowers in a dehydrator or lay them out in a single layer on a lined cookie sheet and place it outside in the mid-day sun.
Can you make dandelion tea from the root?
This tea will effectively treat digestive issues, gallstones, inflammation, muscle aches, and bloating. You can use either fresh or dried dandelion roots for tea .
Can you eat dandelions?
Yes, you can eat dandelions that grow wild in your yard. Remember, avoid any dandelions that have been sprayed with fertilizer or any other toxic sprays.
What are the benefits of eating dandelion greens?
One cup of dandelion greens contains almost twice as much iron as spinach, and over 500 percent of your daily intake of vitamin K, which may play a role in fighting Alzheimer’s disease.
What is the best way to harvest dandelions?
There are a few food safety details that are also important when harvesting dandelions or other wild greens. Make sure to only harvest from areas that you are certain have not been treated with chemicals such as fertilizer, herbicides or pesticides. Also avoid high traffic areas like trails, roadways or animal/pet areas.
How to use dandelion root coffee?
This by far the most labor-intensive use of dandelion but some say its worth the effort. Collect and wash dandelion roots. Chop or food process the roots and dry in a food dehydrator or the oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit until thoroughly dry.
How long to cook dandelions?
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.
How to make dandelion fritters?
Dandelion fritters. Collect flower heads and wash them. Then batter in a flour, egg, and milk batter mix. Add to a pan with hot oil and cook until brown, just like pancakes. Serve with a drizzle of honey or applesauce.
Is dandelion a good food?
If you have a yard, you know it’s dandelion season. While many people spend both time and money trying to eliminate the dandelion weed, they are actually a free healthy food that could be added to one’s diet. Just like other dark leafy greens, dandlions are rich in riboflavin (vitamin B2) and vitamin A. One cup of dandelion greens contains almost twice as much iron as spinach, and over 500 percent of your daily intake of vitamin K, which may play a role in fighting Alzheimer’s disease. The leaves, however, are not the only edible plant part. The flowers and roots are also edible, and root extract has been shown, in some studies, to fight certain types of cancer. While there are many ways to consume the three edible parts of dandelions, Michigan State University Extension recommends trying the following:
Can you bake with dandelion petals?
Baking with dandelion petals. The petals of the flower are extremely versatile. Collect flower heads and then remove the petals from the heads. These can be stored in a plastic bag in the freezer for longer keeping. Add petals to just about anything you can bake like muffins, bread, cookies or quiche.
What is dandelion wine?
The wine—yes, it’s a real wine—remains a popular summer drink. It’s one of many creations that can be made with dandelion flowers, which are faintly sweet. They can also be used for syrup, jam or sweet, gift-worthy jelly. You might also batter the blossoms and fry them in butter. The result will be similar to a fried zucchini blossom, and they can be sweetened with honey and cinnamon or spiced with rosemary and thyme.
What are the flavors of dandelion leaves?
Dandelion leaves have a unique flavor, both earthy and bitter —it’s similar to endive or radicchio. The earlier you pick them, the less bitter they will be, which is why many people in Italy pick ones that emerge in early spring to either use raw in salads like this or sauté them. Keep the sauté simple with just olive oil and salt and pepper, or add red pepper flakes, garlic or even Parmesan cheese to liven up the dish. Big into brunching? This satisfying dandelion greens quiche will have everyone toasting you with their mimosas! You can also grind up the leaves to make dandelion pesto, perfect for a light summer pasta.
What is chard in food?
Chard, a member of the beet family, is prized for its green leaves and colorful stalks. Stir up these good-for-you greens with garlic and red onion. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Can dandelion be eaten whole?
The dandelion roots can be peeled and boiled on the stove and then eaten whole, or chopped up and roasted to be made into tea. The flavor is similar to coffee, though less acidic, and can be paired with a bit of milk, sweetener or lemon juice.
Can you pluck dandelions?
However, make sure you’re plucking up plants where you know there hasn’t been any herbicide or pesticide use. It’s best to stay away from places like freeways, train tracks or telephone poles, and be sure to consult local rules about removing flora.
Is kale a weed?
Watch out, spinach and kale! There’s a new leafy green vegetable making its way to the kitchen, though it might be better known as a weed than a wellness boost. Chowing down on dandelions might seem unconventional, but everything from the leaves to the roots can be eaten. They’re also brimming with a laundry list of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. ( Here are the other superfoods that should be on your grocery list.)
What to eat with dandelion?
There are many ways to incorporate dandelion flowers, leaves, and roots into a meal. This meal will include dandelion root coffee and dandelion salad.
How to make dandelion root coffee?
Mix the dandelion root into boiling water, after a few minutes turn off the heat. Next drain the roots out of the coffee, I used a coffee filter sitting in a sifter. You could also use your coffee maker to do this.
Is dandelion good for you?
Dandelions have many nutritional benefits, making them very healthy to consume. There are many ways to incorporate dandelion flowers, leaves, and roots into a meal. This meal will include dandelion root coffee and dandelion salad. Ask Question.
What is the taste of dandelion greens?
The Fine Cooking website describes the taste of dandelion greens as earthy, nutty and pleasingly bitter, similar to the taste of endive or radicchio. It recommends pairing dandelion greens with bacon, goat cheese, nuts and lemon to complement the taste. You can eat every part of the dandelion—roots, stems, leaves and flowers. One option is to fry the flowers in a batter and make dandelion fritters. People have also incorporated dandelions into several beverages: grinding the roots for a coffee-like drink, or even making dandelion wine.
What are some edible wild greens?
Other Edible Wild Greens. Other similar edible wild greens include lambsquarters, amaranth, nettles, purslane and sorrel, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Each of these offers a variety of vitamins and nutrients, though they may be best suited to different culinary preparations than dandelion.
Is dandelion edible?
People may not care for weeds in their gardens, but dandelions—and certain other weeds—are edible and can be used for a whole host of culinary purposes. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics notes that edible wild greens, like dandelion, taste good, are low in calories and are packed with vitamins. Dandelions in particular are high in calcium and ...
Can wild greens make blood clots?
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics warns that wild greens are high in vitamin K, which can make the blood clot faster. If you're taking blood-thinning medications, you should consume wild greens in careful moderation and only with your doctor's knowledge.
Can dandelion be eaten raw?
They can be sautéed in oil -- for use in casseroles, for example -- or eaten raw in salads and sandwiches. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics does note, however, that wild greens can have an overpowering flavor and should be taste-tested beforehand.
Can you eat dandelion?
You can eat every part of the dandelion— roots, stems, leaves and flowers. One option is to fry the flowers in a batter and make dandelion fritters. People have also incorporated dandelions into several beverages: grinding the roots for a coffee-like drink, or even making dandelion wine.
Can you pick wild greens?
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics warns against picking your own edible wild greens unless you’re an expert. Not only can these wild greens have potentially hazardous lookalikes in nature, they could contain harmful pesticides. The safest option is picking up your greens at a grocery store or farmer’s market. The Fine Cooking website recommends looking for dandelion bunches that are stiff with dark green leaves, resembling a fine-toothed comb. Stay away from yellow, slimy bunches.
What is dandelion used for?
Dandelion roots and leaves are dried and used to make a tea, which is said to help detoxify the liver, improve digestion and aid weight loss . Dandelion’s use as a medicinal herb goes back to 900 AD, and recent research suggests it may hold promise in fighting cancer. (Of course, always consult your doctor before beginning any kind of medicinal regimen.)
Why are dandelion greens good for you?
4. They’re Healthy. Adding dandelion greens to your diet can have several health benefits because they are low in calories and loaded with vitamins and nutrients. Two of those nutrients, lutein and zeaxanthin, play a role in healthy eyesight.
Why are dandelions called dandelions?
Apparently, I’m not the only one with a soft spot: Dandelions were intentionally brought to North America by European settlers in the 17th century. Some say it was for medicinal purposes, or as a food crop, but it also could have been because they reminded the newcomers of their homelands. For whatever reason, it was a conscious decision. Even the name points to its European roots, which comes from the French term “dent de lion,” meaning “tooth of the lion,” and refers to the species' deeply toothed leaf edges.
Do birds eat dandelions?
Small birds eat the seeds and several types of pollinators get nectar from the flowers. Allowed to fully develop, taproots can penetrate hardpan, a layer of compacted soil, to extract calcium from the subsoil. (Fun fact: dandelion roots can grow 10 to 15 feet into the ground!) In addition, dandelions are among the first weeds to colonize disturbed land. That may sound bad, but remember, nature abhors bare ground. So-called weeds fight erosion.
Can you keep dandelions in your yard?
Deciding to keep dandelions in your landscape can be a controversial decision, but these plucky little plants can be beneficial to you and your yard. Whether you use dandelions to feed wildlife and fight erosion or you love to add them to your salad, there are plenty of dandelions to go around. So pause a moment before you destroy them. They have a variety of ecological uses and their nutrients can even improve your health.
Do dandelions need fertilizer?
Although they really don’t need fertilizer, you could give them a shot of water-soluble plant food once a month to encourage more leaf growth. Deciding to keep dandelions in your landscape can be a controversial decision, but these plucky little plants can be beneficial to you and your yard.
Can you put dandelion greens in soup?
That’s why I like to make hearty soups and stews: you can easily slip in nutritious vegetables. Dandelion greens are no different. Cut up the leaves and add them to other salad greens. Toss them in a sandwich or omelet. They also work well in pasta dishes, like this recipe for linguini with sausage and greens.