One of the plants I absolutely adore is Dandelions! These plants haven't been treated very kindly over the years.  Many have the misconception that these plants are weeds but they are so good for you! Everything from the roots of these plants to the leaves and the flowers are edible! And not only are they edible, they are brimming full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber! Plus they are amazing antioxidants! Many believe that this amazing plant supports the liver, is anticancer, helps regulate blood sugars, and even helps fight inflammation and high cholesterol.  Whatever you may believe, know this: Dandelions are amazing!

 My favorite way to use dandelions is in tea, jellies, and salves! The roots roasting in the oven smell like chocolate and make an amazing tea that encourages the detoxification of the liver.  It has also shown promising results in anti cancer properties! 

Dandelion jelly also known as dandelion honey is delicious and tastes very similiar to honey.  My kids adore it on their morning toast and I have used it more then a few times on peanut butter sandwiches.  Did I mention that the jelly is incredibly easy to make too? 

But my current favorite is dandelion salve! This healing salve is amazing for nurturing most skin issues for eczema to just dry and cracked skin. But added bonus is the anti-inflammatory properties of not only the lavender and rosemary essential oils but the magnificent dandelion! Dandelion is full of “taraxasterol” which is just a fancy scientific way of noting the anti-inflammatory component in this versatile and useful plant! Many people use dandelion salve to help soothe tired and overworked muscles as well as to help with arthritis. 

So you see these plants aren’t just good for the honey bee! I imagine you have a few right outside your front door!