One of the healthiest Foods on the planet
There is probably no flower more hated, or misunderstood, than the bright yellow dandelion (蒲公英). In an effort to have the perfect green grass lawn, people try their best to kill all dandelions with chemical products. Or they dig them out at the roots—only to see them grow right back.
They are a great source of vitamin K and also are a good source of vitamins A and C. They also have vitamin E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins. Also, they provide lots of iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium.
Besides nutrition, another great thing about dandelions is that you can eat every part of them—from the bottom of the roots to the top of the flower. Do not eat ones that have been treated with dangerous chemicals or are growing near high traffic areas.
Dandelions are said to provide several possible health benefits such as helping in digestion and improving some skin conditions. They may also reduce inflammation (炎症).
Children in many parts of the world have had the simple pleasure of blowing the soft, white dandelion tops. In fact, there is a game children play with dandelions that have gone to seed. Pick the white top, make a wish, close your eyes and blow! If you blow all of the seeds off in one breath, your wish will come true!
A. Well, that is what many children believe.
B. They watch the seeds float easily in the air.
C. At least the seeds have traveled far and wide.
D. Just make sure to take care when picking wild dandelions.
E. You can let more of this nutritious food source continue to grow.
F. Dandelions are actually one of the most nutritious foods in the world.
G. In the United States, they are considered "weeds", the name for any unwanted plant.
