Common around the world in various forms as a weed, dandelions also offer a nutritious and therapeutic punch.

Common Name(s): Dandelion
Latin name: Taraxacum officinale (common dandelion)

Description: There are a wide variety of plants that go by the handle “dandelion”, and they are known throughout the world. Dandelions are packed with nutrients, including Vitamins A, C and K, as well as calcium, potassium, iron and manganese. Pound for pound, dandelions are better for you than spinach (we’re talking the leaves here).

Dandelion greens can be braised, or used in salads. The dried and ground roots make a decent caffeine-free coffee substitute. And then there is dandelion wine, made from the fermented flowers of dandelions. A truly versatile plant.

Therapeutic Uses: In addition to its nutritional values, dandelions have also been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine as a liver detoxifier, diuretic and inflammation reducer. There is also evidence that it may normalize blood sugar.

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