Dandelion is a corruption of French Dents de lion, referring to the jagged-toothed leaves that resemble lion's jaw.
The dandelion is a commonly used herbal remedy. It is especially effective and valuable as a diuretic.
It is rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other substances that may protect against cancer. It is also a good source of fiber and various minerals, particularly iron and calcium. Ounce to ounce, dandelion are richer in calcium than milk.
Health benefits
The plant is used in the treatment of gall bladder, urinary disorders, chronic joint diseases (arthritis, gout...) and skin complaints (acne, eczema...).
Dandelion supports digestion and have natural laxative hepatic and diuretic properties which help reduce swelling and inflammation.
Liver is one of the primary organ of concern in dealing with an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis. One half cup of dandelion juice morning and evening on an empty stomach seems to be effective.
Dandelion juice is also good for obesity, gout, hypertension, arteriosclerosis, kidney stones...
The vitamin A in it boosts our immune system and the alkaline power of dandelion helps us fight herpes virus.
It is a friend for our arteries and veins. It has a positive effect on cholesterol and varicose.
The plant also has an antibacterial action.
Careful:
People with delicate digestive tracts might want to dilute dandelion juice with carrot juice.
How to eat it?
It is usually served with hot dressing in order to wilt it. We traditionally eat it with warm bacon but it is not really healthy. It is better to replace the bacon by some roasted garlic and vegetable oil. You can steam some potatoes and serve them on the side.
You can also sauté the crowns with an onion and garlic.
The bittersweet root will enhance soup.
Peak season
In early spring, before much of the plant world is stirring, the leaves of the dandelion are at their prime for eating.
They have to be picked before the yellow flower develops. They have a bitter taste.
Before picking wild dandelion leaves from lawns or meadows, be sure that the area has not been treated with weed killer or fungicides.
Dandelion in the summer are too bitter.
From spring to summer, the tender greens will be those that have just sprouted.
Nutritional values for 100 g
|
Nutrients
|
Units
|
Dandelion raw
|
|
Water
|
g
|
85.6
|
| Energy |
kcal
|
45
|
| Protein |
g
|
2.7
|
| Total lipid (fat) |
g
|
0.7
|
| Carbohydrate |
g
|
9.2
|
| Fiber, total dietary |
g
|
3.5
|
|
Minerals
|
||
| Calcium |
mg
|
187
|
| Iron |
mg
|
3.1
|
| Magnesium |
mg
|
36
|
| Phosphorus |
mg
|
66
|
| Potassium |
mg
|
397
|
| Sodium |
mg
|
76
|
| Zinc |
mg
|
0.41
|
| Copper |
mg
|
0.171
|
| Manganese |
mg
|
0.342
|
| Selenium |
mcg
|
0.5
|
|
Vitamins
|
||
| Vitamin C |
mg
|
35
|
| B-1 (thiamin) |
mg
|
0.19
|
| B-2 (riboflavin) |
mg
|
0.26
|
| B-3 (niacin) |
mg
|
0.806
|
| B-5 (pantothenic acid) |
mg
|
0.084
|
| B-6 (pyridoxine) |
mg
|
0.251
|
| Folate |
mcg
|
27.2
|
| B-12 |
mcg
|
0
|
| Vitamin A |
I.U
|
14000
|
| Vitamin A |
mcg RE
|
1400
|
| Vitamin E |
mcg ATE
|
2.5
|
|
Lipids
|
||
| Fatty acids, saturated |
g
|
0.17
|
| Fatty acids, monounsaturated |
g
|
0.014
|
| Fatty acids, polyunsaturated |
g
|
0.306
|
| Linoleic acid (18:2) |
g
|
0.261
|
| Alpha-linolenic acid (18:3) |
g
|
0.044
|
| Cholesterol |
mg
|
0
|
Realized by Laurence LIVERNAIS-SAETTEL, dietetian
© Copyright L. Livernais-Saettel 2000
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