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The Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale)

The Dandelion is a little plant you often see outside during the springtime. Most people tend to pull them up as "weeds" when really these plants can be a huge help to your liver, and other areas of health as well.

The Dandelion has a lot of beta carotene, Vitamins A and D, and more potassium than broccoli, not to mention iron as well. A tonic of this plant is known to benefit the liver by help moving bile, clearing waste, and is overall a great detox plant to use. It also helps clear the skin. It has been used for centuries as a diuretic. Dandelion tea helps with indigestion, constipation, and other stomach issues. Yogi brand teas have a detox tea with Dandelion in it (I have yet to try it, but I will definitely pick up a box next time I'm at Target).

The leaves and the root are the main parts of the Dandelion to use in various dishes. You can use the leaves in salads, or other dishes with greens. You can use the root in sautees.

Now remember, when searching for Dandelions to collect, try to find soil that hasn't been contaminated by various pesticides and sprays, they can harm you. Also be sure to wash your dandelions before ever cooking or ingesting them. Don't forget to check with your physician to see if you are able to use dandelion without any side effects or reactions. Better to be safe than sorry.

SOURCES:

http://www.gardensablaze.com/HerbDandelionMed.htm

http://www.leaflady.org/health_benefits_of_dandelions.htm

http://www.livestrong.com/article/123396-medical-uses-dandelion-root/