Dandelion leaves and buds have been a part of traditional Sephardic, Chinese, and Korean cuisine for centuries. In Crete, Greece, the leaves of certain varieties are eaten either raw or boiled in salads.
Humans aren't the only species to benefit from the plant, either. Dandelions are pretty important food sources for wildlife such as bees and the larvae of some butterflies and moths.
Food isn't the only thing dandelions are good for. They contain a wide range of pharmacologically active compounds and have been prized for their medical properties throughout history. Dandelions are used as an herbal remedy in Europe, North America, and China in homeopathic medicines to treat infections, bile, and liver problems.
The dandelion is also beneficial for gardeners. Its taproot will bring up nutrients for shallower-rooting plants. In addition, the root deposits minerals and nitrogen into soil. Dandelions are also known to attract pollinating insects and release ethylene gas, which helps fruit to ripen.
