Care Tip - Dandelions

Hello,

This entry is about something very common, but something that is very healthy - dandelions. A lot of people consider this yellow flower to be a weed, but it can be so much more. Dandelions can be found outside or purchased from a grocery store (look for "dandelion greens").

I did a quick google search and the benefits of dandelions are many,
"prevent or cure liver diseases, such as hepatitis or jaundice;
act as a tonic and gentle diuretic to purify your blood, cleanse your system, dissolve kidney stones, and otherwise improve gastro-intestinal health;
assist in weight reduction;
cleanse your skin and eliminate acne;
improve your bowel function, working equally well to relieve both constipation and diarrhea;
prevent or lower high blood pressure;
prevent or cure anemia;
lower your serum cholesterol by as much as half;
eliminate or drastically reduce acid indigestion and gas buildup by cutting the heaviness of fatty foods;
prevent or cure various forms of cancer;
prevent or control diabetes mellitus," (Gail, P. 2009)

That list is for humans, but it is likely these snacks are helpful to our animal companions as well, and in my years of having rabbits I've never seen an adverse affect from dandelions. My rabbits have lived to be 8 years old+, and dandelions were a staple in their diets.

Rats, gerbils, parrots, and likely other rodents, can also eat dandelions. My gerbils enjoy the flowers, where as my rabbits eat the entire plant leaf, stem, and flower. Parrots can enjoy the flower, leaves, and the roots. My good friend in NJ has a small-scale, very caring, rattery (farmhouserats.com), and her rats enjoyed the dandelions.

I suggest freezing the pieces of dandelion (after being scrubbed clean) for 4hrs+ to ensure outside parasites are killed. The dandelions can also be cleaned with a mild bleach solution, but I personally prefer freezing as there are no chemicals involved.

Feel free to discuss, ask questions, etc,-

Amber

Gail, P. 2009. http://leaflady.org/health_benefits_of_dandelions.htm
Photos (Copyright) Amber (me), 2009-forever.