The Much-Maligned Dandelion

Those cheery yellow heads are popping up everywhere, so this may be a good time for me to address the topic of the much-maligned dandelion. As a bonus, here is my favorite recipe for dandelion petal shortbread cookies.

Did you know…

• 400 years ago there were no dandelions in North America?

• Early European settlers brought dandelion plants and seeds with them?

• There was a time when gardeners pulled out grass to make room for dandelions?

• Dandelions can actually improve the health of a lawn?

• Dandelions have been used as medicine for well over 1,000 years?

• Dandelion greens are one of the most nutritionally dense greens you can eat?

• Every part of the dandelion can be used for food, medicine, and fun?

I have a short video presentation (less than 30 minutes) with more fascinating facts about dandelions, including…

• Medicinal uses (for example, getting rid of blisters, relieving restless leg syndrome, and re-calcifying bone).

• Tips for including dandelion in your diet.

• Fun with dandelions for kids.

Simply go to my “Videos” page, scroll down and click on “The Much-Maligned Dandelion” to see this video based on a talk I gave for a local Earth Day celebration. You’ll understand why the dandelion is one of my favorite and most used remedies for my health and the health of my family. Warning: watching this video may cause you to cultivate dandelions in your garden!

I'm not alone in singing the praises of the dandelion. Enjoy this song titled "Dandelion" by Tina Brunk.