The Dandelion

I always loved these little yellow bursts of sunshine that popped up all over our yard every summer. They may be classified as weeds but they’re sunny and fun (after all, they are a member of the sunflower family!) - and more useful than most of us probably realized. I just started drinking dandelion tea and love it! It’s a great coffee substitute and gives you a little pep in the morning. 

This site - Amazing Green Tea - has a brief history and good list of dandelion benefits. 

I also like this concise post on eHow about Dandelion Tea where I learned:

• Dandelions are nutrient packed! They include calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2 and B3, vitamin C, beta-carotene and tannins - wow.
• Dandelion tea is a good diuretic and also helps to cleanse the blood and liver, and increase bile production.
• It’s good for your skin and digestion.

You can also eat the leaves or put some in your green smoothies (they are strong though so just start with a couple). Enjoy your dandelions! 

photo courtesy of flickr member somewhatfrank