The common dandelion is a tenacious plant that is hardy and survives anywhere, from your carefully manicured lawn to in-between the cracks in your sidewalk. It has an extremely long root system which makes it nearly impossible to discourage or kill. If any or all of these characteristics were used to describe a human, we would be discussing a very grand person indeed. But when these words are used in connection with a plant, alas, the poor plant is labeled a weed, a pest, a disgrace to the gardening world.

The common dandelion reminds me of the common man. Most of us are not beautiful like a rose, exotic like an orchid, or perky and sunny like a daisy. We're nothing special. We're just common. But on closer inspection, the common man might have innumerable facets to their being and are extremely beautiful with a multitude of graces and talents. So too, on closer inspection, the dandelion comes out smelling like a rose.(Not really, but you know what I mean.)
Throughout time and in many cultures throughout the world the dandelion has been used as a cure-all, a tonic, and a preventive medicine. The dandelion is a rich source of vitamins A, B complex, C, and D as well as minerals such as iron, potassium, and zinc which are beneficial to your health. They are not found in such large amounts in other vegetables. All parts of the dandelion plant are edible or have medicinal uses.

The blossoms or buds are edible and can be eaten raw in salads or dipped in batter and fried. The golden heads make a potent wine. They also can be used to make a golden colored dye. There are claims that the dandelion flower can help dissolve gallstones, improve kidney function, improve overall health, clear skin problems, as a tonic for people with a sluggish liver function because of alcohol abuse or poor diet, effectively treat liver disease, and benefit the pancreas, kidneys, stomach, and spleen.

The vitamin rich leaves can be used fresh in salads, sandwiches, or wilted and served warm. The greens have a sweet-sour, slightly bitter taste. The young leaves are less bitter. The leaves are known to stimulate the appetite, promote water loss and blood circulation, help with gallstones and arthritis, and have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. In the old days the leaves were used as a spring tonic for bodies depleted of vitamins from not having fresh fruits and vegetables in the winter.

A cosmetic skin lotion is made from the appendages at the base of the leaf blades distilled in water. The lotion is used to clear the skin and fade freckles.

The latex contained in the plant sap can be used on canker sores, and to remove warts and corns. This fresh juice is used externally to fight bacteria and help heal wounds.

Even the lowly root is used to make a coffee-like beverage, and a dark red dye.

When put in a paper bag with unripe fruit, the flowers and leaves release ethylene gas which ripens the fruit quickly. Liquid plant foods are made from the root and leaves.

But the best use is when your small child comes with a huge bouquet of dandelions clutched in their small grubby fist and present it with a smile and a kiss. Who needs roses, orchids, and daises, I have dandelions. The most beautiful flower on earth when given by a small child.

Learn more about this author, Barbara King.
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