Anything But Your Boring Weeds – The Beautiful and Rich History of the Dandelion

Their name, "Dandelion" is an English misnomer of the French name for this plant: "dents de lion" meaning "lion's tooth", a reference to the tooth-like jagged edges on the plant's leaves. It was known as lion's tooth in other Latin-based languages in Europe, too, so the English misnomer may have evolved separately numerous times.

Its scientific name is Taraxacum officinale. Dandelions are recorded on clay tablets in ancient Kemet and China, as herbal remedies dating back to 1500BC.

The Genus name "Taraxacum" is thought to have been derived from a Persian word for the plant: "tarashaquq". It was recognized and used by Persian pharmacists around 900 A.D. The species name "officinale" derives from the Latin "officina", an office, store-room or pharmacy. Dandelion is recognized for a number of medicinal properties.

Here at The Natural Guys Company, we harvest dandelion roots from late fall through early spring, when the plant is dormant and has stored up energy in the root. For medicinal use, we say fall harvest is best. This is because the levels of carbohydrate inulin (insoluble fiber) are higher and the fructose levels are lower and supports the growth and maintenance of a healthy bacterial flora in your intestinal tract.

In terms of nutritional content, the Dandelion patch in your yard can join the rankings with the rest of your vegetable garden. From root to flower, Dandelions are loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber. The root of Dandelion is known to be diuretic (makes you pee) and also aids with PMS, menopause, pregnancy, detoxification, liver, kidney, immune disorders and acne. Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and serve as an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, E, folate, and small amounts of other B vitamins. They also provide a substantial amount of several minerals including Iron, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium. This powerful plant is loaded with potent antioxidants and is known to instantly boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, control blood sugar, cleanse the liver, reduces body fat (weight loss), prevent the growth of cancerous cells, support healthy digestion and treat constipation, reduces inflammation, supports healthy bones, and anti-aging.

Suggested Dosage for different forms of Dandelion are:

Fresh or dried leaves: 4-6 grams daily

Leaf tincture: 0.4 – 1 teaspoon (2–5 ml) 3 times daily

Fresh Leaf Juice: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) 2 times daily

Fresh roots: 2 – 8 grams daily

Dried powder: 250 – 1,000 mg 4 times daily