In my HOA, if you have a weed in your yard, you are an irresponsible homeowner (what???). I say that weeds are relative. There is a saying, that “A weed is just a plant you haven’t found a use for yet.” Where I come from in Rhode Island, a dandelion is one of the most prevalent “weeds” out there. It’s a popular “flower” that little girls pick all of the time to hand to loved ones. Because they’re certainly not a rose, and no one cares if you pick a “weed.” Saves someone else the trouble.

But believe it or not, you can use almost every part of a dandelion plant for herbal healing. Leaves, roots, even the flowers are edible! And dandelion parts do wonderful things in tea, pill, or other forms:

• Assist other herbal extracts in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Help increase appetite
• Soothes upset stomach, improves digestion
• Helps to balance blood sugar
• Helps lessen intestinal gas (flatulence)
• Relieves constipation
• Lessens arthritis-like pain
• Works as a great detoxifying agent for your body

Makes you think twice about calling copious plant life “weeds” with disdain in your voice and an upturned lip. Do you know what is growing in your yard? Maybe you can try to identify some of your weeds this week. You may see them in a whole new light. A weed by any other name…

Happy Weed Appreciation Day, everyone!