The humble dandelion is a great resource while we are spending more time at home in isolation and you may not want to make that non-essential trip if we run out of greens. Do you have any in your garden? I have been adding dandelion leaves to sandwiches and salads. Dandelion grows prolifically and we should take advantage of its abundance as it's incredibly healthy!
1.) Dandelion can be used for food, medicine and dye for coloring.
2.) Up until the 1800s people would pull grass out of their lawns to make room for dandelions and other useful “weeds” like chickweed and chamomile.
3.) The name dandelion is taken from the French word “dent de lion” meaning lion’s tooth, referring to the coarsely-toothed leaves.
4.) Dandelions have one of the longest flowering seasons of any plant.
5.) Seeds are often carried as many as 5 miles from their origin
6.) Dandelion is rich source of vitamins A, C and K. It also contains high level of iron, calcium and potassium.
7.)Dandelion is used mainly in Asian cuisine, often as an ingredient of salads and sandwiches.
8.) Dandelion can be used in the production of wine and root beer. Root of dandelion can be used as a substitute for coffee.
9.) Dandelion is used in folk medicine to treat infections and liver disorders.
10.) Tea made of dandelion act as diuretic (facilitates excretion of urine).
If you would like to learn more about foraging, why not book a 1:1 course or with a groups of friends? You could even forage ingredients and then make a lunch over the fire! Please get in touch: office@londonbushcraft.com
Check out my stinging nettle, dandelion and jack by the hedge pesto:
https://www.londonbushcraft.com/post/stinging-nettle-pesto