The dandelion is an herbaceous plant that is much more than just a nuisance in your yard. For all purposes, the dandelion leaves are at their best just as they emerge from the ground, and they are very distinct; nothing resembles them at all. Depending on when you harvest the dandelion leaves will determine their bitterness, but it is an appealing bitterness.

These leaves, which are considered an herb, blend nicely with salads and do well either sautéed or steamed. Many claim the taste is similar to that of endive. People who are into eating the fruits of nature claim that it is perfectly acceptable to eat the dandelion flower as well. Some claim that they make outstanding fritters if they are battered up and fried, and they make a colorful contribution to any stir fry.

Dandelion leaves are actually extremely nutritious, much more so than any herb that can be purchased in the store. They are higher in beta carotene than carrots are, and they have more iron, calcium, and iron than spinach does. Dandelion leaves are also full of vitamins B-1, B-2, B-5, B-6, B-12, C, E, P, D, biotin, inositol, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. Dandelion root is one of the safest and most popular herbal remedies on the market and is widely used today.

Traditionally, it can be made into a tonic that is known for strengthening the entire body, especially the liver and gallbladder, because it promotes the flow of bile. Dandelion root contains taraxacin, so it reduces inflammation in the bile ducts and reduces gallstones. It is commonly used for hepatitis, liver swelling, and jaundice. It also helps with indigestion.

This plant also goes by the French name Pissenlit. Ironically enough, when used in the tea form made from the leaves or the root, it tends to act as a diuretic on the kidneys. Over-the-counter diuretics tend to suck the potassium out of the body but not the dandelion leaves. Dandelion root tea has helped some people avoid surgery for urinary stones. Dandelions are just good for overall health and well-being, so just about anyone could benefit from a cup of dandelion tea. Many herbalists say that incorporating the Dandelion plant into dinner each night will assist in easier digestion.

When you take a dandelion plant and break the stem, you will find a milky white substance inside. This substance is great for removing warts, pimples, moles, and calluses, soothing bee stings, and blisters. Some other things that Dandelion has been popular for in the past are making Dandelion jam, and others use it as a coffee substitute when it is roasted and ground from the root. Many also drink Dandelion wine.

Today, Europeans use plenty of dandelion roots to make herbal medicines and find it hard to believe that Americans refer to this highly beneficial plant as a weed when it has such positive benefits for the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, and stomach.