Spring means a yard adorned with gorgeous wildflowers, including dandelions.

And there is more to these cute little yellow flowers than just looking pretty!

Scroll down to learn more about these beauties and for a yummy muffin recipe!

Did you know dandelion is not only a stubborn weed? It’s actually a beautiful flower with many hidden talents!

Instead of going to war with them, you should embrace them!

Dandelions are classified as a herb and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and teas for their health benefits.

Dandelion health benefits

I love the fact that a plant can be beautiful, practical, and healthy! It’s the ultimate combo!

And best of all, the whole plant is edible (cooked or raw), from the root to the flower.

Dandelions are highly nutritious

They pack a ton of vitamins and minerals, including Vit A, C, K, E, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Dandelions provide super antioxidants

The roots, leaves, and flowers of dandelions include antioxidants such as beta carotene and polyphenols that fight harmful free radicals and protect against chronic illnesses.

Dandelions could help fight inflammation

Plant compounds found in dandelions have possible anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation has been proven to cause diseases such as cancer and heart diseases.

Dandelions could improve digestion

Dandelion tea is often used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues and constipation. When cooked, the dandelion plant offers 3 grams of fiber per cooked cup. Dandelion is also a source of prebiotic fiber inulin, which can reduce constipation and promote bowel movement.

Other benefits

Dandelions may also help with lowering blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and controlling blood sugar levels.

Although more human research needs to be done to confirm all health benefit claims, I say it wouldn’t hurt to eat more dandelions!

The more fresh food we eat straight from the earth, the better!

And that’s why I try to make fun recipes with them and other edible plants like my Spring onion and Dandelion Focaccia or these super tasty Dandelion and Honey Muffins. Packed with natural, good-for-you ingredients!

Luscious Dandelion and Honey Muffins Recipe

These muffins have just the right amount of sweetness, are extra fluffy, and are perfect to grab for breakfast or a snack.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 Tsp baking powder

1 Tsp baking soda

1 cup buttermilk ( I used 1 cup canned coconut milk + 1 Tbs fresh lemon juice)

1/3 cup of honey

1/2 cup of applesauce (the equivalent of 2 eggs)

1/2 cup melted butter ( salted)

1/2 cup dandelion heads

Optional

1/2 cup nuts ( whichever is your favorite)

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/2 cup raisins or cranberries

1/2 cup shredded coconut

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat your oven to 375 F.

Mix the dry ingredients together.

Add the wet ingredients.

Fold in the dandelion heads + any other optional ingredients you feel like!

Scoop into a greased muffin pan, making it 2/3 full.

Bake for 15 minutes.

Take it out and let it cool for 5 minutes.

Take them out of the pan and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy!!

Note: When you forage for dandelions, do not pick them all! The bees love and need them. And be sure to not pick from a yard or area that has been treated with pesticides to avoid any potential toxins.

Happy baking!

Love, Annette xx

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