The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Dandelion
The Power of Herbs: Herbs and Spices

ORIGINS

Known to most people as a common weed, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a perennial plant with bright yellow flowers that is found worldwide. The leaves, flowers, and roots are all used for various medicinal and culinary purposes. The yellow flower heads mature and turn into feathery, white seed heads that then disperse in the wind, spreading the seeds far and wide. The word dandelion comes from the Latin dens leonis, meaning “lion’s tooth.”

HISTORY/LORE

Because dandelion flowers open early in the morning and close in the evening, the dandelion is sometimes called the shepherd’s clock. It is said that if the seeds fly off a dandelion seed head when there is no wind it means rain is coming.

USES

Healing Uses: Dandelion is often used as a diuretic and to purify the cleansing organs. It contains taraxacin and choline, which stimulate liver cell metabolism. It is also rich in vitamins A, B-complex, C, and E, as well as calcium. A tea made from dandelion roots is useful as a general health tonic. Rub the milky juice of the dandelion stem on warts.

Magical Uses: Blow on the white puffball of a dandelion seed head to check in with a relationship: If one seed remains after blowing on the seed head three times, it means your sweetheart is thinking of you. Then whisper a message to the flower and blow it in the direction of your loved one. Drinking a tea of dandelion flowers increases psychic abilities. Pour boiling water over dandelion root for divination. Include dandelion in a dream pillow to ward off nightmares.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Dandelion stimulates the solar plexus chakra, the core of who we are. It helps to focus scattered emotions and strengthen the sense of self. This plant encourages those who are fearful of change to take action and move forward in life. Dandelions are excellent for making wishes. Make your wish, and then blow on the seed head to release your wish with the seeds.