Dandelion
by Maciek Froncisz
Title
Dandelion
Artist
Maciek Froncisz
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
While many people think of the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) as a pesky weed, especially in lawns and along roadsides, the plant is full of vitamins A, B, C, and D, as well as minerals such as iron, potassium, and zinc. Dandelion leaves are used to add flavor to salads, sandwiches, and teas. The roots have been used to make a coffee substitute (when baked and ground into powder) and the plant was used by Native Americans as a food and medicine. The flowers are used to make dandelion wine.
In the past, dandelion roots and leaves were used to treat liver problems. Native Americans also boiled dandelion in water and took it to treat kidney disease, swelling, skin problems, heartburn, and upset stomach. In traditional Chinese medicine, dandelion has been used to treat stomach problems, appendicitis, and breast problems, such as inflammation or lack of milk flow. In Europe, it was used in remedies for fever, boils, eye problems, diabetes, and diarrhea.
Uploaded
July 4th, 2014
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