Roots of Healthy Living

Ok, I know what you're thinking...weeds? Seriously? Here me out on this. One amazing thing I have learned is how great those weeds are that we've been taught to despise. When I first learned about Dandelions and how medicinal they are I wondered if I was being taken in. All I knew about them was how everyone sprayed religiously to eliminate them from their lawns. I have seen first hand the miracle healing power they contain. Don't dismiss the delicious dandelion...(yes I said delicious).

Did you know...

Dandelions are dynamic accumulators. What does that mean? They have the ability to extract those inorganic minerals from the soil and turn them into organic minerals we can use. Many plants are great at extracting a certain mineral but dandelion is great at extracting many minerals, including:

sodium, silica, sulfur, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc, cobalt, copper and other trace minerals.

-Did you know that they are also a rich source of vitamin A as well as B1, B2, B3, B5, Folic Acid, B12, and vitamins E, C, H, P (bioflavanoids) and more.

-Did you know dandelion has incredible healing properties for the liver and gall bladder? It is also known as a blood purifier, mild diuretic, and can even help with allergies, arthritis, menstrual cramps, lower back pain, anemia, eczema and acne. It has helpd with stimulating lactation, and even stomachaches. Because of the high vitamin A content it has helped many with vision problems.

-Did you know that it can be a great natural substitute for a water pill? One of the side effects from a "water pill" is losing potassium which helps to regulate heart rhythm. Because dandelion is high in potassium and also works as a mild diuretic it can help remedy this situation. My mother, father, and mother-in-law have all switched to Dandelion and found terrific results.

-Did you know that you can eat the whole plant, roots and all? Many people use the young leaves as salad greens, The milky stems are great for stimulating the liver. My personal favorite are the roots. I tried Dandelion Root Tea a few weeks ago for the first time and was surprised and how great it tasted. You can use fresh roots or dried. The roasted roots are often used as a coffee substitute. Many people like to use the root tea as a tonic in the spring to clean the liver after a harsh winter of heavy foods. I've even heard of people using the flower tops to make jelly. You can find dandelion in most health food stores. You can take capsules, tinctures, drink the tea, or find the greens in the produce section. Or be adventurous and go on a dandelion hunt with your family. So have fun, make friends with the dandelion, stop killing them and start harvesting them!

Recipe for Dandelion Root Tea:




* Place roots & cold distilled water in stainless steel pan.
(about a 1-2 tsp per cup of water)
* Slowly bring to a simmer
* Simmer anywhere from 15-30 minutes (the longer the better)
* Strain out the roots

Enjoy!




I like to squirt a little fresh lemon juice and honey in mine!

I run into so many people who have never made a cup of loose leaf tea. I found this video and had to share it. Please share your favorite cup of tea...