 |
Dandelion Leaves Organic |
|
|
Dandelion Leaves Organic
DANDELION LEAVES
Taraxacum officinale
History and Folklore
Dandelion is probably the most commonly recognized wild flower - every child knows the sunny blobs that appear in early spring and sprinkle the fields with floral sunshine. Their sight delights the heart, for they are a sure sign that spring is near. Only gardeners look upon it with dismay, for their profuse seed disposal and rampant roots that won't be defied not matter how hard one digs at them. From the tiniest bit left in the ground new Dandelions will sprout. But instead of cursing them we should be grateful for their profusion, for there are few more healthful herbs so easy to come by. Its name Dandelion is an adaptation of Dent de Lion - Lion's tooth, in allusion to the fearsomely jagged profile of the leaf margins. Its other French derived name 'Pis-en lit - 'Piss-a-bed', is not particularly charming, but tells us something about the leaves effects. Children love playing with all parts of this little flower, weaving garlands, or running water through their hollow stems, or blowing their beautifully delicate globe of helicoptered seeds to the winds. Some country folk still remember the healthy virtues of this plant in spring and use it as a vegetable - eating the leaves as salad, roasting the roots as vegetable or as a coffee substitute, and making wine from the flower heads.
Medicinal Uses:
Dandelion Leaves are a tonic for the kidneys. They are a great cleansing herb to use in spring cleansing diets, as they are strongly diuretic and help to flush out all metabolic wastes from the joints and tissues. The leaves can be used as a supportive remedy for arthritis, gout and rheumatism, as well as to relieve water retention due to heart problems. It is unique in its property of replacing the potassium that is washed away with the urine as the leaves themselves are very rich in potassium, so no shortage can result. The bitterness present in parts of the plant stimulates the stomach and the digestive juices, though the roots are more specific for this use.
Magical Uses:
Children divine all kinds of oracles by blowing on the seeds - depending on how often they have to blow until the last seed has been taken by the wind they determine the time of day, the number of years until one will be married, how many children one might be blessed with etc. This use of Dandelion as a flower clock certainly explains kid's odd sense of timing. In the old days Dandelion was an important herb in spring rites, many of which were cleansing and protection rituals - it was included in the 9 herb bundle and it was considered essential to eat Dandelion on Maudy Thursday in order to prevent sickness for the rest of the year. Witches are known for their evil doings, such as stealing the milk from innocent cows, but Dandelion in their diet would is sure to restore it. Dandelion is a herb of prosperity, health and protection, and anybody would do well to honour it.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
<< Back to products
|