Dandelion Leaf, Flower and Root Monograph

Dandelion

Taraxacum Officinale (Scientific Name)

Lion's tooth, Dent de Lion (Common Names)

Asteraceae Family

Parts Used: Leaf, root, flower

Actions: Cool, Anti-Inflammatory, Anodyne, Astringent, Vulnerary, Diuretic, Salty, Nutritive, Mild Laxative, Lymphatic, Bitter Tonic

Organ Affinity: Liver, Kidney, Digestive System, Lymphatic System

Energetics: Cold, Dry

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQSHS9XSR9A

Dandelion is a pervasive weed that grows everywhere it's wanted and uninvited. It is perhaps the most known and recognized herb that we have. As a child we would find dandelion plants to blow for a wish. Little did we know, we were aiding our parents' weeding nightmare.

Dandelion has smooth, vibrant green leaves that resemble arrows. The leaves can get very long; I've had some with leaves that were about a foot long. The edges have "teeth" that vary in size and length. The dandelion flower is pretty large, about the size of a quarter, sometimes larger, and yellow, with one flower per stem. All of the parts of this plant are used; the stem oozes a milky sap that can be used topically on boils.

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Foraging Notes & Identification Tips

Dandelion is one of those plants that grows so freely that people stop respecting it. It shows up everywhere—lawns, sidewalks, cracks in concrete—and because of that, people assume it is always safe to use.

Dandelion pulls deeply from the soil through its taproot. That means it is not just pulling nutrients, it is pulling whatever is in that soil. If it is growing in a sprayed lawn, along the roadside, or near areas with heavy runoff, you do not want to use it.

You want to look for clean, undisturbed areas. Think fields, untreated yards, or spaces where you know what has been put into the soil.

When harvesting, take your time with the plant. The leaves can be picked easily, but the root requires more care. Because of that long taproot, if you rush, you will snap it and leave the rest behind. If you are harvesting root, loosen the soil first and pull gently so you can get as much of the root as possible.

The younger leaves are less bitter and better suited for fresh use. As the plant matures, the bitterness increases, which can be useful depending on what you are using it for.

The flowers should be bright yellow and fully open. Avoid any that are starting to close or look dull.

This is one of those plants that teaches you to pay attention to the whole environment, not just the plant itself.

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Energetics & Actions:

Dandelion is considered one of the safest herbs. The dandelion flowers, root and leaves are all edible. The leaves are highly alkalizing, they contain vitamins A, B, C, and D as well as calcium, iron and other minerals, notably potassium. The taproots are long, they resemble white carrots as they will often form one long root unless disturbed. This property is indicative of its nutritive properties.

Dandelion stems can have a red color that symbolizes one of its predominant actions, working as a blood cleanser. Its diuretic properties help the body detoxify and get rid of excess water weight. Unlike other diuretics, dandelion leaves contain potassium which is usually flushed out in the urine.

Dandelions may help fight inflammation and aid blood sugar control. Dandelion root is a bitter tonic known to improve liver function. The leaves have an affinity for the kidneys, while the root is more specific for the liver. Roasted dandelion root is often marketed as a coffee substitute, unlike coffee, it doesn’t contain caffeine.

Cool Anti-Inflammatory Astringent/Vulnerary

Diuretic Salty Nutritive

Mild Laxative Lymphatic Bitter Tonic

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Preparations:

Dandelion flowers are used for garnish, in wines, mead and baking. I have also seen dandelion fritter recipes that look enticing, though I haven't had a chance to try it out for myself. Dandelion greens makes a great addition to salads. A few leaves can be added to a fruit smoothie without throwing off the taste. The leaves are less bitter than the root, especially when the leaves are harvested young. The bitterness of the leaves seem to increase when dried or cooked.

The root dries pretty fast and will maintain much of its white color when dried carefully. I do not peel the outer root before using. The root does contains inulin which can make tinctures cloudy. This inulin is a prebiotic fiber which is digested in the colon where it feeds good gut flora.

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FAQ: Foraging Dandelion

Where can I find dandelion?

Dandelion grows almost everywhere—lawns, fields, gardens, and even in cracks in the sidewalk. The key is not just finding it, but finding it in a clean environment.

Can I harvest dandelion from my yard?

Yes, as long as your yard has not been sprayed with pesticides or chemicals. If you are unsure, it is better to find another location.

What part of dandelion should I harvest?

All parts of the plant can be used—leaf, root, and flower. The leaves are often used fresh, the root is commonly dried or roasted, and the flowers are used in food preparations.

When is the best time to harvest dandelion?

Leaves are best harvested young before the plant flowers if you want less bitterness. Roots are typically harvested when the plant is more mature. Flowers should be picked when fully open and vibrant.

How do I harvest the root without damaging it?

Loosen the soil around the plant first, then pull gently. The root is long and can break easily if you try to pull it straight out without preparing the soil.

How much dandelion should I harvest?

Take what you need and leave the rest. Even though dandelion grows abundantly, you still want to harvest in a way that allows it to continue growing and reseeding.

Can I use dandelion right after harvesting?

Yes, it can be used fresh or dried. Leaves are often used fresh, while roots are commonly dried or roasted for later use.

Are there lookalikes I should be aware of?

Dandelion is commonly confused with other similar-looking plants that have yellow flowers, but true dandelion has a single flower per hollow stem and produces that familiar seed head. Take your time to observe before harvesting.