The English name Dandelion is a corruption of the French dent de lion meaning “lion’s tooth”, referring to the shape of the leaves. The plant has numerous other common names in English, including “face-clock”, “blow-ball” and the ever popular “piss-a-bed” or in equivalent French ”pissenlit”, referring to the strong diuretic effect of the plant’s roots. Dandelions have been commonly eaten; all parts of the plant are edible since prehistory. Packed with vitamins K and A as well as well as Calcium and Iron. The roots can be used as a caffeine-free coffee substitute, not pleasant. Or, as a basis for Dandelion and Burdock, possibly the best soft drink ever.
Due to the high Calcium content, Dandelion tea is great for building healthy bones, and combating brittle bones. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, brain function and healthy metabolism. Vitamin A is an antioxidant so helps fight free radicles. Dandelion tea enhancing liver function, as well as being a good source of vitamin C. This tea also helps regulate and stimulate the production of Insulin, produced in your pancreas so is helpful in Type 2 Diabetes.
When serving up Dandelion tea to guests, float a fresh flower on the surface of the cup, it doesn’t do anything but looks lovely. I steeped for 5 minutes at 100oC. and really enjoyed this drink, however, use this as a guideline and adjust according to your taste.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doc for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
