Thursday, April 26, 2012

My Favorite "Weed" - The Dandelion

Something that I really enjoy and love learning about are herbs and all of the wonderful ways we can use them in our lives.  I realized that this is one of the important things in my life that I have neglected to talk about in my blog.  So, today I am going to fix that!


I truly believe that God gave us everything we need in His original creation.  I am not saying that modern medicine has no value.  I am grateful for all of the advances that have been made.  However, I believe that there are many health issues that come up in our lives that we can easily treat with natural remedies that are more effective, affordable and with less (or no) side effects.  Just incorporating certain herbs/plants in our daily diet may prevent many problems in our bodies.  In all cases, you should consult a medical professional if you have health concerns or problems.  I am no doctor or professional but am just sharing my opinion and experience with these particular plants.

There are so many wonderful and useful plants around us that we do not even recognize as being valuable or useful.  Take the Dandelion for example.  Most people consider it a weed that they work diligently to rid their yards of.  The Dandelion just happens to be a handy little plant to have around!  The entire plant is edible, the flowers and leaves go great in salads and the roots are used to make a "coffee" like beverage!  On top of that it is very healthy to have in your diet.  Dandelion Root is often used to treat Acne, Bladder Infection, Bronchitis, Colds, PMS.... the list goes on.  The leaves contain Vitamins A and C and the flowers are one of the best sources of Lecithin.  Lecithin is a nutrient that elevates the brains acetylcholine and may play a role in boosting memory and mental focus, as well as being good for some liver problems.

The Dandelion is just one of my favorite herbs.  I make and use Echinacea tincture regularly as needed for colds and other virus' that enter our home and bodies.  Stinging Nettle is another plant considered a nuisance that has amazing qualities.  It can be made into a tea for to help sooth a cold and the leaves can be boiled and prepared just like Collard or Mustard Greens.  Can't sleep?  Try a cup of Chamomile or Valerian Root tea!

The list goes on and I am still in the early learning stages of my journey with Herbs.  I will continue to share my discoveries with you as I learn and grow!

Do you use any herbs in your family?  What are your favorites?

Linking up with Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop at KatherinesCorner.com and Winky Linky Weekend Hop over at Misadventures in Motherhood!

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8 comments:

  1. I grow basil,are oregano and rosemary and parsley and thyme. These wonderful fresh. Thank you for linking to the Thursday Favorite Things blog hop. Sending hugs and happy weekend wishes! xo

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    1. Wonderful selection! All of them have great health properties! Hugs and happy wishes to you too!

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  2. I did not know that they were edible! Well, I don't know a lot about plants anyway but thanks, that was informative!! Dropping by from Winky Linky by the way!

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    1. Thanks for dropping by, Anne! I love to eat so I get very excited when I find out something is edible and healthy at the same time! :)

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  3. Linked up behind you at LL's blog...informative post...I grow oregano, rosemary and thyme...still need to plant my basil seeds :)

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    1. Thanks for stopping by and the comment! I have the Rosemary and Thyme but am behind on the oregano also! Thanks for the reminder! :)

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  4. It took me a long time to appreciate the dandelion as the wonderful thing it is. Then other "weeds." A friend gave me the book "Just Weeds," and wow, what an awakening! We miss a lot in the weed patch!

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    1. I will have to check that book out! I amazes me that there is such a variety of useful plants right in front of us that we do not know about!

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I am grateful for your thoughts and comments! Be blessed and joyful always!