Hello! Did you have a nice week?
I was thinking about what to write to you today when I happened to glance out the window and BOOM nature gave me the answer! My lawn has exploded with vibrant, yellow dandelions! It reminded me that you may not know the incredible power of this cheerful looking plant and that might be something you'd find interesting.
The dandelion was brought to America by colonists from Eurasia as a medicinal plant. It's considered a weed to most of us, but it is far from being useless and intrusive -it is an extremely useful herb. Every part of the dandelion can be consumed-the leaves, roots, flower and seeds. It shows up at exactly the time our body needs it-SPRING! During the Kapha season we may have accumulated some heaviness and ama build-up and the dandelion helps to clear that stickiness with it's drying qualities while also helping to regulate heat in the body as the temperatures warm. The dandelion has an earthy and bitter flavor and tastes a bit like radicchio or endive.
Check out the benefits of the dandelion:
Cleanses the liver and gallbladder
Helps remove cholesterol from the blood.
regulates blood sugar
Mild laxative
Cools Pitta dosha
Drys excess Kapha
Before you go and pick a big bowl for lunch, its important to be sure they are from a natural, untreated lawn and far away from potential fertilizer run off from a neighbors yard. You can also safely buy them from the farmers market or grocery store. Mix the greens in with a salad but, don't eat too many at one time or you risk creating excess coolness in your digestion which can cause a loss of appetite. A little goes a long way! Don't use medicinally without checking with your doctor or a trained herbalist.
CLICK HERE for some yummy teas and recipes using dandelions.
FUN FACT
The dandelion is the only flower that represents the 3 celestial bodies of the sun, moon and stars. The yellow flower resembles the sun, the puff ball resembles the moon and the dispersing seeds resemble the stars.
I have exciting news!
Cleveland Ayurveda will officially move to The Dealership in Shaker Heights on May 1st! The Dealership is a small business incubator where 22 other businesses call home including, Verb Ballet. This is so exciting for me. I have grown so much this year because of you, that I am now able to take the leap in growing my business. Zoom worked out, but you all deserve a place to come to in person when you feel comfortable. I will be ready for you!
Have a fantastic week!
~Julie
