Because of its deeply indented leaves this humble flower earned the French name "Dent de Lion" – Lion’s tooth. Now that fluffy dandelion head will look more like a lion’s mane next time you look at it!
But though humble, it is a powerful plant. Not only is it used medicinally, but it is highly nutritious as well. The leaves are more nutritious than anything we put on our table: more beta carotene than carrots, more iron and calcium than spinach, and large quantities of B vitamins and many other trace minerals. Wow! Even as I write this I am inspired to go out and pick a bunch for dinner! (My unsuspecting family won’t know what hit them! Waa-haa-haa!)
I hope to post several more times about this wonderful "weed", because there's too much to say in one entry. But for starters, here’s a fun link for a great "dandelion wine" recipe. http://compostbin.blogspot.com/2006/05/how-to-make-dandelion-wine.html Personally, I just drink White Zinfandel (which my brother calls wine for the non-alcohol drinker. Hmph) But let me know if you try it!