During spring in Switzerland, the fields are coloured yellow by the masses of dandelions visible everywhere. After only a few days, the yellow flowers turn into white round seed heads easily dispersed by the wind. When we look at dandelions, we can see weeds that are difficult to eradicate, beautiful wildflowers or precious herbs.

Beneficial medicinal properties

I have only recently become aware that dandelions have many beneficial medicinal properties, and herbalists see them as precious herbs. Dandelions are a rich source of vitamins A, B complex and C, minerals such as iron, potassium, and zinc.

In the northern hemisphere, people have used dandelions for healing since the 10th century. The Indian, traditional Chinese, and European herbalists used it for liver and gallbladder support and as an antidote to an upset stomach. Nowadays, scientists do studies to test their effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of cancer and to assist in reducing cholesterol.

Inspiration for healthy drinks

The plant is related to chicory, and people roast and use its roots as a caffeine-free substitute for coffee. They also use dried or fresh roots to make herbal tea with many health benefits. I read that the Americans use dandelion flowers to make wine and the British to make beer. I smiled at the comments that people drink it more for the health benefits than the taste.

Dandelions are an attraction for bees and other insects

Dandelions are rich in pollen and nectar and are a great attraction for bees and insects that flock to them and disappear into the calyxes of the yellow flowers. When you walk through a field of yellow flowers on a warm summer day, you hear the buzzing sound of bees collecting nectar.

Healthy feed for animals

The cows in Switzerland delight in the yellow flowers when you look at the contrast between their pasture and the area next door. Ideal cattle grazing should be like a ‘salad bowl’ of grasses and legumes for the cattle. Fortunately, plants that people consider to be weeds in their lawns, such as dandelions or clover, are very nutritious for cattle, and they enjoy them.

Legends and symbolic meaning

According to legend, if you can blow all the seeds off the dandelion bud with a single breath, then the person you love will love you too. If there are seeds left, the person you are in love with may have doubts about their feelings for you. This video by Emmy award-winning British photographer Neil Bromhall shows the transformation of the dandelion flower to the seed head, leaving me in awe.

Dandelions have many positive symbolic meanings. They represent perseverance and endurance to overcome the challenges that life throws at us. Dandelions adapt very well to their environments. They are often resistant to many herbicides and grow in different soil types.

I will hold on to the positive symbolic meaning of the golden yellow flowers in the times when life throws challenges my way.

regards

Emsia