Ancestors Speak – Using Dandelions (Weeds) as Medicine (Herb)

 
Picture of Dandelion from www.wildmanstevebrill.com
As the summer rolls on, I am more intrigued by the idea of the plants that we know as “weeds” being healing plants.  I wonder then why someone labelled plants like quack grass and dandelions as weeds.  Could it be so large pharmaceutical companies like Monsanto, can create herbicides that wipe out healing plants? It is just a silly thought that I had.
Our Ancestors used dandelion leaves or greens in the spring, in salads and with bread and cheese, to get the nutrients that were not available through the winter.  Yes, Dandelion was a tonic.  Not only is the early spring dandelion rich in vitamins, it also has a mineral component.  Now, however, we simply eat artificial vitamins.
The tea made from Dandelion roots and leaves is used to soothe rheumatism, gallbladder and liver conditions, indigestion, and to relieve fluid retention.  Dandelion does have anti-inflammatory medicine within its roots, and therefore seems to be effective in treating arthritis or other inflammatory joint problems.  And, it is easy on your stomach!
Dandelion leaves and roots may be dried in the oven, after being thoroughly washed, at about 150 degrees Fahrenheit.  Spread the leaves and roots over parchment paper on a cookie sheet.  Try to keep the roots and leaves from overlapping since they dry faster. It may take two to three hours for a tray full of Dandelion to dry.  Keep checking it after two hours.  When it is dry, crush it, and store it in a glass jar to keep freshness, or store it in the freezer, taking out what you need to make a weekly pot of tea. 
Did I mention that a delicious wine may be made from the Dandelion flowers?  Well, that is not really medicine.  Perhaps I better stop now.
Judy@angelsandancestors.com   Do you have a story about Dandelion?  Share it with me, please!     Watch for the August 2009 newsletter at www.angelsandancestors.com 
See  Ancestors Speak – Quack Grass As A Remedy; Ancestors - Home Remedy for Diarrhea, IBS, Colitis Symptoms