Herb of the Month: Dandelion

I’ve had a really strong craving in the last few weeks for dandelion root tea. Dandelion root is a bitter help that eases sore and overworked livers and digestive systems. Drinking the root of this is said to enhance divination and psychic powers.

This sacred herb of Hecate has an absolutely to of medicinal properties, containing Vitamin A, C K, iron, calcium, magnesium AND potassium. Ideal for our bodies as we ride out the last day of winter before Ostara tomorrow. Followers of the old ways associate the dandelion with growth and transformation, making her an ideal New Moon buddy (it’s on the 24th this month).

Dandelion contains high levels of the antioxidant beta-carotene, an antioxidant which provides strong protection against cellular damage and oxidative stress. They’re also rich in polyphenols, mainly in the petals. Flicking through my battered copy of Maud Grieve’s herbal, she advises making a tincture out of the bright yellow leaves for a cleansing liver tonic which I’m going to make this weekend.

Scientific research has shown that dandelion has active compounds that can protect again harmful bacteria. My clever body in its cravings has figured out another herbal defence against the dreaded virus. Always listen to the body, it knows what it needs!

Following on from my previous posts about the early Spring gifts the Mother blesses us with that support our health, dandelion is another herb abundant at this time of year that gives our bodies the support they need. Just looking at all the medicinal benefits it brings us, at a very pertinent time in our collective health, is clear evidence that Nature wants us to thrive. I shall be going out dandelion hunting this weekend and look forward to making magick with them.