With the arrival of warmer days, dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) will be budding and blossoming soon. Instead of considering them a nuisance, make good use of all they have to offer.
The leaves are loaded with vitamin A, C and K. They are a good source of fiber and act as a diuretic.* What I really love about them is that they are bitter. Eating bitter vegetables is a great way to get the digestive juices flowing and preparing the body to absorb nutrients. Dandelion leaves do just that. Add them to salads, soup or a smoothie.
I recently read that the buds are edible, too. Harvest them before the long stem appears. These small buds will be close to the ground and have even smaller buds beneath them. Here's a link: https://practicalselfreliance.com/dandelion-capers/?fbclid=IwAR1r9d99FY0crl8ijM12bUh2IJYPXewGCRUyfRsGnQ2Utnx_TAmZz3gjbu8
Finally, the dandelion root are highly beneficial to your liver, spleen and pancreatic function. and supportive herb. Drink dandelion root tea to help cleanse your liver and digestive system. It tastes like weak coffee - perhaps not an enticing description! Add in some plant-based milk for a delicious and nourishing drink.
* Caution for those on blood thinners for its high vitamin K content and people with liver or kidney issues.
Ask your doctor before consuming these items.