articles

Dandelions
By Christine Best
BSc Phyt. MIIMH, MNIMH

During the next month we will see dandelions flowering abundantly along the hedgerows. So now, just before they flower, it is time to gather the leaves of this useful 'weed'. Dandelion root is a good liver tonic but is best harvested in the autumn so this time we will concentrate on the leaf and its uses. The leaf is very nutritious and makes a good spring tonic and de-toxifier. It contains vitamins B, C and a precurser to Vitamin A, also many minerals including potassium. Its main medicinal use is as a diuretic which is not surprising when folklore refers to it as 'piss-a-bed' ! This means it can be used to help with many urinary problems- from cystitis, prostatitis- even bedwetting!

As a diuretic it can also be used to lower blood pressure but care must be taken if you are already taking blood pressure medication. A common problem with diuretics is that with an increase in the amount of urine excreted from the body there is also an increase in the amount of potassium excreted, which could have serious implications. As dandelion leaf is one of the highest plant sources of potassium, often replacing more potassium than it excretes, this problem does not occur. Make sure that you collect dandelion leaf from a clean (preferably organic) source, where no sprays or fertilizers have been applied recently and not too close to heavy traffic fumes. Pick nice young leaves and use them fresh in salads or in sandwiches. They have quite a bitter taste similar to endive. They may also be added to soups or stews or can be made into a tea by using 5-6 leaves to a cup of boiling water. Leave to brew for 5-10 minutes before straining. Dry some leaves to keep for later in the year by spreading out on a tray lined with greaseproof or kitchen paper and leave in a warm, dark place for a week. Make sure they are well dried before cutting into pieces and storing in a dark glass container.

(Christine is a qualified medical herbalist practicing in Tralee. If you have any queries you may contact her on 066 7103533 / 086 1939 217)

^ back to top