Feed the bees! Spring dandelions are one of the first spring food sources for bees, as well as a whole range of garden wildlife that depends on them for food. Bees pollinate 80% of flowering plants and 75% of all the fruits, nuts and vegetables grown in the US. Don't mow yet - let the dandelions hang out in your yard an extra week!
Dandelions are also great for us. These greens, that many see as weeds-to-be-killed, have amazing health benefits. My grandmother used to serve sautéed dandelions with dinner. As a young girl I hated the taste, but to be fair to dandelion greens, Grammy didn’t do them justice. A little garlic, lemon or ginger would have made them far more appealing. If you don’t want to saute´ dandelion greens, toss some in your morning smoothie. Or, drink dandelion tea - spring is the perfect time to try it! As with all tea, it’s important to buy organic. This is my favorite brand of dandelion tea.
Dandelion greens are best known for stimulating liver function and clearing toxins. But they are also good for the spleen, pancreas, stomach and kidneys. In addition, dandelions help improve digestion which aids weight loss, ease achyness in joints, help to purify the blood, improve circulation and keep blood sugar low. Dandelions contain calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, vitamins A, C and K (535% daily recommended allowance!).
Dandelion greens are seasonal in the spring and summer, so you can usually find them at your local farmer’s market or health food store this time of year. Don’t pick from your backyard unless your lawn is pesticide free!
DANDELION TEA RECIPE – makes 4 cups
WHAT’S IN IT
2 cups dandelion greens
5 cups water
1 inch of ginger, cut in a few slices
1 lemon
HOW TO MAKE IT:
Wash greens and set aside to dry. In a medium pot, bring 5 cups water to a boil
Add greens and garlic to water. Cover, and simmer for 30 minutes. Cool slightly, and strain into a pitcher.
To serve warm, squeeze the juice from ¼ lemon into a mug, then pour in the tea. Store remainder to serve as iced tea - add fresh lemon juice before serving.
source for stats- USDA Forest service Photo credit - Stefan Steinbauer