African Wildlife & Environment Issue 80

FAUNA, FLORA & WILDLIFE

slight bitterness of the Dandelion, or sprinkle this health-giving mixture over mashed potatoes, cold meat, soups and roasts. The flower can also be used as a fritter, dipped into a batter, fried and then dusted with sugar and cinnamon. I am a particular fan of adding the beautiful petals as an edible flower garnish to most of my dishes, especially butternut soup and salads. If the flowers are added to a classic gin, the flavour is enhanced by the juniper and quinine in the tonic water. This is a beautiful, foraged option to a gin picnic! Dandelion ‘coffee’ can be made from the well-cleaned, and then dry-roasted root. It is a tasty supplement enjoyed by many who love the health benefits. As a cosmetic, Dandelion massage oil relieves sore muscles and stiff cold feet and, interestingly, can also be used in a lotion, and massaged lightly into wrinkles around the eyes. Dandelion also has the most prolific results as a hair builder, and it is a perfect companion when added to Rosemary to make into a hair rinse, excellent for damaged, dyed hair that is brittle. Make a hair rinse by adding a good handful of Dandelion and Rosemary in equal quantities to a litre of boiling water. Allow to cool and then use it, by massaging or spraying onto the dry hair. This rinse can be kept in the fridge for three weeks and repeated every time you wash your hair.You will soon see and feel the difference!

effective and safe to use, rich in vitamin A, B, C & D, carotenoids and minerals, especially potassium and calcium. This vital health-builder supports the functioning of kidneys and urinary tract, liver, gallbladder, and digestive system, including toning and strengthening the bowel, and toning and clearing the skin. Dandelion elixir acts as a good blood builder, bone builder, joint strengthener and treatment for eczema and infected acne. Most importantly, Dandelion tea, breaks down gallstones and is extremely helpful for jaundice and liver overload, where alcohol abuse and drug abuse has been the most damaging. The best way of taking Dandelion is through the diet, but not more than twice a week to maintain a healthy balance. My favourite way to take Dandelion is by drinking a tea. To make a tea, I use a quarter of a cup of chopped leaves and clean root, adding a little honey, then top up my cup with boiling water. I allow it to cool before sipping. This will help me break down acidity as a valuable tonic cleanser and smooth my skin. For its culinary uses many delicious dishes can be made, for example the leaves can be added to salads and stir-fries which give it a slight bitterness that is pleasant to some. You can chop them up with celery and parsley and mix them with lemon juice and a little honey, to mask the

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