Raw Food Recipes and Health: 20 Reasons to Eat Dandelion & 2 Recipes to Help You Do It

20 Reasons to Eat More Dandelion & 2 Recipes to Help You Do It

By Guest Blogger

Okay, I live in a subdivision which has a homeowner’s association.  For those of you in a similar situation, you understand what I mean when I say that most of my neighbor’s would have me kicked out of the neighborhood if they realized that I actually planted the dreaded DANDELION!!!

“Really”, they say, “she’s planting dandelions?!?!?!  Why, they will spread all over the neighborhood.  My poor lawn!!”

Yes, I long for the day when no one else has a say in how my lawn may look.  But, for now, my fenced in backyard is my haven where I have this beautiful “weed” as they call it popping up left and right.  What a joy it is to pick fresh dandelion leaves to pop into my smoothies or salads.  Our two sweet little pet bunnies agree! (Don’t worry — There is plenty to go around.)

So, why am I so excited about dandelions?

The Dandelion

Most people would complain that they are terribly bitter.  Upon first introduction, I would agree.  However, once you get to know the dandelion intimately and realize the health benefits of this innocent little weed, you will love dandelions just as much as I do.

My relationship with dandelions began after I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and following a great deal of research that lead me to the realization that my liver was crying out for help.  Here is where dandelions come in.  Dandelions have demonstrated powerful therapeutic effects with detoxifying the liver and with relieving symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.  I think I found my new best friend.

Dandelion leaves, as well as dandelion root have many other health benefits, including the following:

The list really could go on into hundreds of benefits of the dandelion.  Convinced yet that this little weed should be part of your daily diet? Well, here are few yummy and fun ways to incorporate dandelions:

Favorite Dandelion Salad

Ingredients:

Mix first 7 ingredients well in high-speed blender.
Combine dandelion, apple slices and red onion in a bowl and toss with dressing.
This tastes best if left to marinate 10-20 minutes in the refrigerator.

Dandelion Root Tea

Ingredients:

•  ¼ cup dandelion root
• 1 quart boiling water
• honey, to taste (optional)

Directions:

Infuse ¼ cup dandelion root in 1 quart of boiling water overnight.
Drain and add honey to taste.  Sip throughout the morning.

Dandelion Massage Oil

Great for aching muscles! 

Ingredients:

Place flowers in jar. Cover flowers with oil.
Cover with coffee filter and sit in a sunny spot.
Replace brown flowers with fresh ones and repeat this 3-4 times.
Strain out flowers and cap oil tightly.
Store in a cool, dark location.