Dandelions

[Pat]

I know in the past that Denise has shared some recipes using dandelions. I will have to admit never having tried them but after reading a bit more on dandelions, I've certainly decided to. My main problem will be to find some that the dogs, cats and goats have not found first and used as their bathroom and that are safe from any pesticide or chemicals.

Dandelion leaves are one of the best sources of natural potassium, has lots of vitamins A, B, C and D, as well as iron and manganese.

Dandelion helps the body get rid of waste, cleanses the liver, and stimulate your digestive system, and help you get rid of constipation. It's been reported to help with some forms of rheumatism, heartburn, gallbladder problems and even acne.

The easiest way to use dandelions is to put the young tender leaves in your salad. The older leaves will be more bitter. You can use the flowers, leaves or roots to make tea - adding honey if you want it a bit sweeter. Some people save the roots, roast and then grind them and use similar to coffee. Of course there is dandelion wine too which uses the flowers I believe.

So even though it's an aggravating weed to folks who want a really nice yard, this is one weed worth reading up on a bit more.

[braided-rug]

I remember my uncle collecting them when I was a teenager. Also talk of what one particular family ate during the depression or something like that. But I think they ate nasturtiums.

I am sure my uncle would still eat them. Helping the digestive system is pretty impressive. Yes, and I do feel when we dig them out of the lawn. It is such a frugal way to eat though. Each lunch time my uncle would go and collect his greens for the day, whether cultivated or a mixture of things.

[Deed]

My dad grew up on these and mom cooked them just like you would spinach. NOT my favorite! LOL