This pesky "weed" shows up on the list of most recommended vegetables, why?! Well its humble leaves provide 535 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin K and 112 percent of the daily minimum requirement of vitamin A! These greens also contain vitamins C and B6, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, iron (crucial for generating red blood cells), potassium (to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure), and manganese. Other nutrients present in dandelion greens include folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper.
The root of the dandelion can be used for medicinal purposes. Its flowers can be harvested for wine or tea. And its greens have a bitterness that can be delicious. 1 cup of dandelion leaves contain a mere 25 calories.
