Dandelions aren’t just a weed to get rid of in your garden! They also have dual uses, culinary and medicinal. Dandelions are 100% edible, and in the culinary world, they have many uses because they are so full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Greens can be eaten raw in a salad, or cooked in a soup. Dandelion greens are high in vitamins C, A and K, and have small amounts of vitamin E, folates and other B vitamins. They’re also a good source of minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Stems are often used in teas. 

You can also use dandelion heads to make vegan honey! With water, dandelion heads and lemon, simmer for 15 minutes and leave overnight. In the morning, strain the liquid with a strainer or cloth, add an amount of sugar equal to the amount of liquid and bring the new mixture to a boil for 15 minutes. Just make sure if you’re consuming raw or cooked dandelions your flowers have been grown in safe soil and have been washed thoroughly.

Medicinally, not only do dandelions contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that are important to the human body, but consuming dandelions can control blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, promote a healthy liver, aid in weight loss and help with digestion and a strong immune system. 

Outside of the body, dandelion leaf and flower extracts have been shown to help with skin damaged by the sun,  as well as reducing inflammation and even preventing acne in some cases.