In folklore, some believe when making a wish while ever so gently blowing upon a dandelion pappus (the fluffy ball part), the seeds cast into the wind will then be carried to loved ones whilst the said wish will come true!
This precious wildflower is patently worth more than its weight in gold! As in the beautiful yellowish hued petals it's known for, that is!
These golden petals (ligules) can impart much more than just a lovely organic dye!
As one of the earliest perennial herbs to bloom, dandelions come at just the right time for wishes of new year good tidings! That’s aside from their credence symbolizing resilience, rebirth, regrowth, second chances and hope!
And though small in size, they provide a grand service as somewhat official messengers of Spring. Spy a dandelion bloom and Spring is assuredly nigh!
Despite being considered simply a weed to some, the Dandelion is a member of the Daisy hierarchy. The (wherever the wind blows) dandelion is also known to be edible, used for medicinal benefits, as well as believed to possess qualities of magic and a host of folklore!
The number of dandelion recipes and remedies easily compare to the thousands of seeds produced from a
single dandelion plant (which grows as one central plant that thereof can sprout up to an average of 10 florets which eventually turn into the wish-ready seed puffballs)!
From petal to root, the dandelions (provided they're not exposed to pesticides or other toxins such as roadside exhaust etc.) are known to be low in toxicity and fully edible (in moderation) for most everyone. They can be eaten as is or cooked!
Please always consult your physician before any intake as underlying diseases, medications and allergens, just to name a few, can possibly produce negative effects for some people.
Let's start at the top!
Dandelions are a superfood known to have a wealth of beneficial vitamins, minerals, folates, omegas, fiber and to possess antioxidant properties!
A few of many applications of dandelions are those believed to possibly help with digestion and tummy related problems, support and detox of the liver and kidneys, increase lactation in new mothers, and hair growth.
The milky secretion that comes out of the stem is known for treating skin issues, lesions etc.
Known applications vary from intake to dandelion derived soaps, salves and essential oils.
Petals (tastes reminiscent of honey with light floral notes) - can be added into dessert recipes varying from frozen yogurts to baked goodies, made into a nice jelly or sweet syrup, a homemade wildflower honey, or a salad vinaigrette.
Blossoms - can be dredged and fried fora wildflower treat!
Greens- (tastes zesty and slightly spicy bitter with the bitter becoming even more pronounced once the plant flowers) - can be tossed in salads, in wraps, or soup (or otherwise cooked and served same as kale or spinach)!
Stem-more widely used in medicinal (instead of a yummy snack due to its bitter milky inner goo) but can be sauteed or grilled.
Root- (tastes earthy and roasted with a hint of nuttiness) -can be made into caffeine-free coffee or tea, as well as added into favorite recipes by cooking similar to the way one would do a rutabaga.
Seeds-eat right off the plant or pluck and sprinkle in desired dish.
Dandelions have also been known to be fermented and made into one's very own
vin de wildflower!
On a final note...
Besides its richness in folklore and superstition, like that of determining how kind-hearted you are by gauging the yellow glow under your chin when a dandelion is held near.
Or its lore of concluding if you fancy the taste of butter by rubbing a blossom under your chin to see if your skin turns the buttery shade.
Telling the time... Forecasting the weather...
Or, foretelling if your love truly loves you back!
The Dandelion is a precious and versatile treasure trove full of history, symbolism, magic and mystery! Along with being medicinal, and a healthy edible yummy!
Perfect for the new year!
So, Make a Wish!
And it may just come true!
-Elise's Adventures In Herbaland
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