This one is very special to me, and this is also where we start to dive into medicinal plants instead of herbs. Teas, tinctures, and balms are still the go to methods for extracting the lovely properties but now we turn our attention to this beautiful “weed”. The first documented usage of dandelion for medicine was found in ancient China during the Tang Dynasty. At this time, they used it to treat breast pain and swelling. In this way, it was just used topically until Arabian physicians in the 10th century began using it in medical practice for liver and kidney problems. Then, dandelion made its way into Welsh medicine and eventually in 1672 Puritan settlers intentionally planted the flower for its nutritional and medicinal properties. It wasn’t until the 19th century when The Shakers began to cultivate large amounts for salads, teas, and wines. Now is when you might be starting to ask: “Why and how does this ‘weed’ have so many amazing properties?” Here is where it gets interesting.

The secret to the dandelion’s incredible medicinal properties lies in it’s roots. Today, dandelion root is used in labs and not so much as a raw ingredient. However, going back in time and reading how this root was used to treat all kinds of ailments is astounding. The list includes: liver support and detoxification, digestive aid, antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory properties, blood sugar and cholesterol regulation, diuretic effects and lastly potential anti-cancer properties.