Don’t be so fast taking that weed wacker to those beautiful yellow dandelions growing in your yard.  Many people can’t stand the sight of them because they’ve been told that dandelions are bad.  You can’t have them in your yard or the homeowners association will make you move.  Well, dandelions are an integral ingredient in our detoxifying tea blends.  Herbalists consider dandelions a very valuable herb for medicinal and culinary purposes.  Dandelions contain a rich source of minerals like potassium, iron and zinc as well as vitamins A, B complex, C and D.  Dandelion leaves and roots have been used throughout the centuries to treat liver problems.  American Indians would boil dandelions in water to treat various ailments from kidney disease, heartburn, stomach problems, swelling and skin problems.  The Chinese have used dandelions to treat digestive problems, appendicitis, and problems relating to nursing mothers and the flow of breast milk.  Many European herbalists use dandelions to treat fever, eye problems, diabetes, boils and diarrhea.

The root of the dandelion is primarily used as a digestive aid and appetite stimulant.  It is very beneficial to the proper function of the gall bladder and liver.  The leaves are used as a diuretic to stimulate urination.  The yellow flower of the dandelion is a very good antioxidant and will help fortify your body’s immune system.  Liver detoxification and maintaining proper kidney function are some of the most beneficial functions of ingesting parts of the dandelion.

(To Be Continued)