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DAND.TXT
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1994-04-04
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DANDELION ==========================
CULTIVATION: ============ Dandelion is a low growing variable perennial
with deep tap roots, and yellow flowers on hollow stem.
Prefers sunny and open location, and grows in any soil. Sow seeds in
spring to early autumn. Dandelion will self-seed profusely. Flavor is
improved if you tie leaves together to blanch the hearts, or make a tent
of boards over them. Dandelions produced by the seeds offered in catalogs
are somewhat larger and more succulent than those growing wild.
Germination time is about 14 days, and plant matures in about 60 days.
Grows in zone 3-10.
Harvest before flowers open. Keep flowers picked off plants you don't
harvest. Grow as an annual to prevent bitterness developing in the plants.
Parts used are the leaves, flowers, and the roots.
CULINARY USES: ============== In the last century plants with larger
leaves have been developed as a autumn and spring vegetable, these usually
being blanched in the same way as endive.
The roots can be eaten raw in salads.
Dandelion greens are bitter. The secret is to pick them in early spring
before the yellow flowers appear. Look for the ones that grow in a shady
spot. Bright sun makes them dark green, but very bitter.
Leaves are high in vitamin A, and B, niacin and iron.
SPRING SALAD : Cooked dandelion make a tasty vegetable that is even more
beneficial than spinach. Thoroughly wash the leaves and cook in boiling
water for 5 minutes. Drain and discard the water. Cook leaves again in
salted boiling water for a further 10 minutes. Strain and serve with
butter.
MEDICAL USES: ============= Researchers have suggested that a natural
occurring compound called Lecithin may help prevent cirrhosis of the
liver. Dandelion contains about 30.000 parts per million of Lecithin,
almost twice the amount found in soybeans, a more widely known source.
Dandelions are also rich in Inulin, a slow digested starch. Inulin, and
traditionally dandelion, are sometimes recommended for people with
diabetes who need to stabilize their blood sugar swings.
Dandelion may enhance the flow of bile, and improve such condition as
liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis, gallstone, and
jaundice. It also has both diuretic and laxative capabilities.
One study showed, dandelion inhibits the growth of the fungus responsible
for vaginal yeast infection. Add a couple of handful of dried leaves and
flowers to the bath water. Other studies showed dandelion roots have
anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting possible value in treating
arthritis.
WARNING: ======== Generally regarded as safe, for healthy nonpregnant,
nonnursing adults.
OTHER USES: =========== Grind dried and roasted roots to make a coffee
substitute. Flowers are used in dandelion wine, and leaves in dandelion
beer and tonic drinks.
COSMETIC USES: ============== The latex in the dandelion leaves are rich
in emollient. This is great for facial steams, cleansing milk, and
moisturizer for all skins, especially good for dry sallow skin. SKIN TONIC
: Crush 1 teaspoon of fresh dandelion leaves, and add to one cup of
boiling water. Let stand for 1/2 hour, strain and let cool. This will
revitalize the skin and improve the circulation. The tonic can be stored
in a sealed bottle in the refrigerator for about 10 days without losing
power.