Dandelions

One of nature's handiest items is probably waiting for you out on the lawn as you're reading this. The leaves are good eating in the spring, but the part we're talking about today is the root.

Dandelion root is a powerful diuretic. I've known several people who were able to stop taking prescription water pills after starting to drink Dandelion root tea.

One of the things that makes the Dandelion such an ideal diuretic is it's high potassium content which can be as much as 5%.

Potassium is one of the mineral leached from the body by diuretics.
Dandelion helps prevent some of the negative side effects of potassium loss. (Leg cramps anyone?)

Drinking the tea on a regular basis not only helps eliminate water retention but it also flushes your system out and can prevent kidney stones.

The best time to collect the root is in the summer. Split them in half lengthwise and let them dry.

To use;

• Put 2-3 teaspoons full in a cup of water.
• Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes.

The roots can be slow roasted in a low oven until they are dark brown and used as a coffee substitue.