As Spring moves into Summer, the everpresent yellow lions appear in people's yards. These sunny, cheerful flowers offer more than beauty. The healthy dandelions share their wealth with Earth's creatures.
The University of Maryland Medical Center gives this information:
"While many people think of the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) as a pesky weed, it's chock full of vitamins A, B, C, and D, as well as minerals such as iron, potassium, and zinc. Dandelion leaves are used to add flavor to salads, sandwiches, and teas. The roots are used in some coffee substitutes, and the flowers are used to make wines."
For details regarding ways to use dandelion, check the UMMC website:
https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion
Wellness Mama post
Wonderful information, however, from a Mom’s point of view ….the MOST important use of a dandelion: IT IS THE FIRST FLOWER CHILDREN GIVE THEIR MOM! A most cherished memory!
http://wellnessmama.com/5680/herb-profile-dandelion/
A Modern Herbal
This site gives a detailed discussion of the origin of the name and other interesting facts.
"The blooms are very sensitive to weather conditions: in fine weather, all the parts are outstretched, but directly rain threatens the whole head closes up at once. It closes against the dews of night, by five o'clock in the evening, being prepared for its night's sleep, opening again at seven..."
