Dandelion Leaf (Taraxacum officinale)
Dandelion is a member of the sunflower family. It gets its name from the French dent de lion, which means “lion’s tooth” and is a reference to the toothed edge of the leaf. Other characteristics, such as the bright yellow flower heads that turn to face the sun in summer that later become puff balls that scatter seeds in the wind, are responsible for various other nicknames for the plant, including clocks, priest's crown, blowball and puffball.
In Europe, the herb is a key ingredient in certain meads and soft drinks, including traditional root beer. Dandelion leaf can be prepared as tea with other herbs, or it can be encapsulated or tinctured.
The bitter flavor of the leaf is enjoyed fresh as a salad green and dried as a tea, although the latter is also used to add earthy flavor to cooked foods. Dandelion leaf has a lot to offer in terms of nutrition, including several antioxidant compounds, vitamins A, B, C, D and K and the minerals calcium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc and iron.
Origin: Eastern Europe
Active Compounds: Triterpenes, Vitamins A, B, C, and D, Sesquiterpene lactones, Coumarins, Carotenoids, Potassium, Taraxacoside, Phenolic acids, Calcium.
Plant Part Used: Leaves
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container away from direct light, heat and moisture.
Appearance and Aroma: Leafy, pale green with a mild scent.
Cosmetic Uses: Use alone or in combination with other herbs to prepare skin and hair preparations.
Culinary Uses: Use in tea blends, add to smoothies or sprinkle over soups, stews and casseroles. May also be added encapsulated.
Flavor Profile: Earthy and mildly bitter. Works well with other bitter herbs in tea blends, as well as those with floral or citrus notes.
Safety: Consult your physician if you have a history of liver or gallbladder dysfunction before using this herb.
Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.
This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by Canada Health or the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.