Permacul 13+ Survival Gardening Crops To Grow To Live Off Your Garden

China Connection

TB Fanatic
This is well worth watching as his information is spot on for survival gardening.


13+ Survival Gardening Crops To Grow To Live Off Your Garden


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yhKxZqvPtM



Rob Greenfield

Today I am going to talk to you about the Survival Garden. This is a garden designed to meet the majority of your nutritional needs in difficult times, to get you by for weeks or months without access to a grocery store and produce a majority of your food, even when times are good! Imagine being able to rarely make a trip to the grocery store and instead take daily trips to your garden for your sustenance along with your health and happiness! This video focuses on 13+ crops key for the survival garden. Resources: All 300 foods I grew and foraged during my year: http://www.robgreenfield.org/foodfree... My year of food documented in photos: https://www.robgreenfield.org/foodfre...
 
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China Connection

TB Fanatic
Grow and Forage 100% of Your Food in Central Florida: Rob Greenfield at Orlando Permaculture


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JPWdvs3zsc



Rob Greenfield

207K subscribers


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For one year I grew and foraged 100% of my food. Every. Single. Bite. No grocery stores, no restaurants, not even a drink at a bar. Nature was my garden, my pantry and my pharmacy. This is my presentation of the year, given at Orlando Permaculture in Orlando, Florida on 11/12/19. This presentation shares the story of my experience but more importantly was designed to lay the framework for anyone in Central Florida who wants to step away from industrial agriculture and live within a fully localized food system. For a detailed resource guide to accompany this presentation go to: http://robgreenfield.org/grow/ --- I lived in the city of Orlando, Florida in a 100 square foot tiny house. With no land of my own I turned front yards into gardens and shared the bounty of food with the homeowners. Over the year I grew over 100 different foods in my gardens, foraged over 200 foods from nature and I even grew and foraged my own medicine and vitamins too. This project wasn’t just about growing and foraging all of my food though. It was about empowering others to take back power from Big Ag. I built gardens 15 Gardens for the People, planted over 200 Community Fruit Trees, sent out over 5,000 seed packs to help people grow their own organic, healthy food and I taught free gardening classes to the people in my community. I’ve been exploring food for nearly a decade and I believe the globalized, industrialized food system is broken . This was a personal quest to see whether I could step away from Big Ag and grow and forage every bite of my own food. Here I am, one year later. I did it and I feel healthier and happier today than when I started. I'm here to share solutions for a more sustainable and just food system with you. Food Freedom, the book, will be released December 2020. 100% of my proceeds will be donated to nonprofits working to create a more sustainable and just food system. Learn more and preorder for 20% off: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomb... Learn more about the project: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedom/ The guidelines behind this project: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomru... The purpose of this project: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomwhy/ List of all 300 foods that I ate: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomfo... Log of what I ate each day: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomme... Photos of my meals and foods: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomph... Filmed by IDEAS For Us: https://ideasforus.org/ and Eliot Kersgaard: https://eliotkersgaard.wordpress.com/ Rob Greenfield’s work is Creative Commons and this content is free to be republished and redistributed, following the terms of the creative commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 license. Learn about Creative Commons and see the guidelines here: http://www.creativecommons.org/licens...
 

Telescope Steve

Veteran Member
Grow and Forage 100% of Your Food in Central Florida: Rob Greenfield at Orlando Permaculture


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JPWdvs3zsc



Rob Greenfield
207K subscribers


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For one year I grew and foraged 100% of my food. Every. Single. Bite. No grocery stores, no restaurants, not even a drink at a bar. Nature was my garden, my pantry and my pharmacy. This is my presentation of the year, given at Orlando Permaculture in Orlando, Florida on 11/12/19. This presentation shares the story of my experience but more importantly was designed to lay the framework for anyone in Central Florida who wants to step away from industrial agriculture and live within a fully localized food system. For a detailed resource guide to accompany this presentation go to: http://robgreenfield.org/grow/ --- I lived in the city of Orlando, Florida in a 100 square foot tiny house. With no land of my own I turned front yards into gardens and shared the bounty of food with the homeowners. Over the year I grew over 100 different foods in my gardens, foraged over 200 foods from nature and I even grew and foraged my own medicine and vitamins too. This project wasn’t just about growing and foraging all of my food though. It was about empowering others to take back power from Big Ag. I built gardens 15 Gardens for the People, planted over 200 Community Fruit Trees, sent out over 5,000 seed packs to help people grow their own organic, healthy food and I taught free gardening classes to the people in my community. I’ve been exploring food for nearly a decade and I believe the globalized, industrialized food system is broken . This was a personal quest to see whether I could step away from Big Ag and grow and forage every bite of my own food. Here I am, one year later. I did it and I feel healthier and happier today than when I started. I'm here to share solutions for a more sustainable and just food system with you. Food Freedom, the book, will be released December 2020. 100% of my proceeds will be donated to nonprofits working to create a more sustainable and just food system. Learn more and preorder for 20% off: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomb... Learn more about the project: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedom/ The guidelines behind this project: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomru... The purpose of this project: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomwhy/ List of all 300 foods that I ate: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomfo... Log of what I ate each day: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomme... Photos of my meals and foods: http://robgreenfield.org/foodfreedomph... Filmed by IDEAS For Us: https://ideasforus.org/ and Eliot Kersgaard: https://eliotkersgaard.wordpress.com/ Rob Greenfield’s work is Creative Commons and this content is free to be republished and redistributed, following the terms of the creative commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 license. Learn about Creative Commons and see the guidelines here: http://www.creativecommons.org/licens...

I wish you would have listed the 15 foods to grow so we could see which of those might work in our climate and soil conditions. Maybe I will get around to listening to the video. It is 27:25 minutes long by the way ( I think you are supposed to list the length when you post a video.
 

Grouchy Granny

Deceased
I agree with Telescope - we need a list of the 15 to see if they are viable in our AO's. Especially those of us with shorter growing seasons and weird weather.
 

SouthernBreeze

Has No Life - Lives on TB
I wish you would have listed the 15 foods to grow so we could see which of those might work in our climate and soil conditions. Maybe I will get around to listening to the video. It is 27:25 minutes long by the way ( I think you are supposed to list the length when you post a video.

Same here. I really don't have time to watch the video right now, either. I'll try back later if I have time.
 

China Connection

TB Fanatic
1590531878355.png


100 pigeon pea seeds - nitrogen fixing mulch plant with high protein seeds


This is a versatile, hardy and extremely useful plant. It has edible seeds that are widely used for cooking and that are in the order of 25 percent protein.It is a legume and the roots produce nitrogen. The leaves, stems etc also contain nitrogen (in the order of 1%).

This is an extremely hardy plant that grows on a wide range of soils. While it needs little attention, it performs better with a little care or on better soil. We've used a 2x2 metre spacing for one field and approx. 1.5 metre spacing where we've planted orchard trees (though we are in the process of interplanting additional seedlings which will bring it down to approx. 75 cm).

We are continuing to experiment with spacings and areas.The tap roots can grow several metres in depth and assists the migration of deeper minerals to the surface and in making them available for other plants. The tap root also helps break up clay soils.Soaking the seeds in water overnight speeds germination.

The seeds can take from around 10 days to several months to appear. I have not found a reason for this - some seeds just take time.

Cannot send to WA or Tasmania.

Happy growing!


 

Bps1691

Veteran Member
If you look at what the people in your area grew in their gardens during WWII, you'll have a great start on food to survive on that grows well in your area. With the rationing and all of the other issues during the war, this worked for a whole lot of people in their survival.

Here's a PDF of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Miscellaneous Publication: Number 483 which was one of several different pamphlets the Government put out.

 

Bps1691

Veteran Member
Here's a nice and well written overview of planning your survival garden:

Planning a Survival Garden for Food and Medicine
 

dioptase

Veteran Member
Well, he did mention regular potatoes, which would work for the Midwest (or where I am in CA). The problem THERE is that you need a root cellar or some other way of preserving the potatoes, which I don't have. He was also big on a certain kind of pumpkin (Semolina?) but again, root cellar for that or other keeper squashes.
 

Martinhouse

Deceased
If this guy hasn't got the brains to warn at the beginning of the video that his information is for in and around Florida, whyever would I trust his advice on something that might involve life or death for me?
 

summerthyme

Administrator
_______________
Well, he did mention regular potatoes, which would work for the Midwest (or where I am in CA). The problem THERE is that you need a root cellar or some other way of preserving the potatoes, which I don't have. He was also big on a certain kind of pumpkin (Semolina?) but again, root cellar for that or other keeper squashes.
Not necessarily on the squashes. We've stored pumpkins and winter squash on shelves in the kitchen for 5-6 months, and they last even longer in an unused bedroom if you can turn the heat off and keep it around 50 degrees.

Potatoes have a natural "rest period"... about 4 months after maturity ad harvest where they won't sprout. You can keep them in paper bags or cardboard boxes in the kitchen until
Christmas, at least (darkness is vital, to prevent greening)

If you've got a freezer you can freeze French fries, hash browns and mashed potatoes...

Summerthyme
 
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dioptase

Veteran Member
Thanks for that info, summerthyme! I was trying to figure out how I was going to store whatever potato harvest I get!
 

lonestar09

Veteran Member
I think this is the list for the Rob Greenfield video above

Sweet potatoes
Cassava/yucca
Yam
Potato
Banana
Papaya
Seminole pumpkin
Pigeon peas
Beans + peas
Morning
Katuk
Chaya
Perennial spinach
Turmeric/ ginger
Elderberry
Peppers
Herbs( Cuban oregano, African blue basil, dill)
Daikin radish
Tomatoes
Garlic/ onions

As Packy stated they probably wouldn't work up north, but for me I can grown just about about all of those. I didn't watch the video yet but someone posted them in the comments
 

lonestar09

Veteran Member
I would recommend looking into 2 Carol Deppe books. THE resilient gardener and breeding your own vegetable varieties. Also Will Bonsall wrote a book essential guide to radical self reliant gardening. I haven't read the Bonsall book but I do have it. Recommended by many different people and boards. If you want check on permies.com and look at Joseph Lofgren. He is growing crops to his specific climate. If I remember correctly he has even used beans and similar seeds from the grocery store to grow crops where he is at in Utah.
 

China Connection

TB Fanatic
Perennial Vegetable That Thrives On Neglect? INTRODUCING KATUK.
Less than 10 minutes long

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ed9A6BmjjWY




Pete Kanaris GreenDreamsFL

150K subscribers


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Why You Should Be Growing Heat-Tolerant Superfood Katuk Right Outside Your Door: Scientific Name - Sauropus androgynus Katuk is a heat-tolerant survival plant that thrives with no irrigation & no need for fertilizers or amendments of any kind. It is a perennial vegetable, meaning that in warm climates - it will continue to produce year after year without the need for replanting. Katuk is most definitely considered a top permaculture plant for this reason, plus being so nutritious (high in protein, important minerals & obviously lots of cholorophyll/phytonutrients). It provides sustenance to many dishes around the world in tropical/subtropical climates. Did we mention the nutty flavor is similar to peas or peanuts? To learn more about Katuk: http://www.eattheweeds.com/edible-kat...
 

China Connection

TB Fanatic
Chaya: Indestructible and indispensible food forest plant for southern permaculture or prepping

About 10 minutes


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEwK9eCP2WI



The Florida Prepper
3.14K subscribers


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If you would like to buy cuttings from my plants here in Southwest Florida, click here http://www.ebay.com/itm/282652176975?... Click these Amazon links for other Permaculture plants I use Moringa http://amzn.to/2mGR7iM Katuk http://amzn.to/2lsLEM5 Cranberry Hibiscus http://amzn.to/2m83Yal Sweet potato http://amzn.to/2mGTsKm Everglades Tomato http://amzn.to/2n20B4h Seminole pumpkin http://amzn.to/2m89byW Loquat Tree http://amzn.to/2lsLuo5 Starfruit tree http://amzn.to/2n1XdGC Papaya http://amzn.to/2lsHcgE Mango http://amzn.to/2lsDy6e Mulberry http://amzn.to/2mGU3vx

Category
Education
SHOW LESS

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Chaya: Growing subtropical food for dummies

About 10 minutes long..

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjTJmv_FT7Q




The Florida Prepper

3.14K subscribers


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Chaya might be the most perfect green vegetable to grow in a subtropical environment. Easy to propagate, and requires no care. Nutritious, and easy to prepare. If you would like to buy cuttings or leaves from my plants here in Southwest Florida, click here https://www.ebay.com/sch/bigyingadven...
 
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China Connection

TB Fanatic
perennial spinach

Um, about 30 minutes long


This TOUGH Tasty Plant is a MUST for the Home Vegetable Garden


View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3pUre2pars




Self Sufficient Me


813K subscribers


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This is one of the toughest but tastiest plants you can grow in the home garden! I personally think this food crop is a must in the vegetable patch! Support me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfsufficientme Help support the Channel and buy a T-shirt/Merchandise from our Spreadshirt shop: https://goo.gl/ygrXwU or Teespring (below the video). Shop on Amazon for plants: https://bit.ly/2yRFNGQ Shop for plants on eBay Australia: https://bit.ly/2BPCykb Blog: http://www.selfsufficientme.com/ (use the search bar on my website to find info on certain subjects or gardening ideas) Forum: http://www.selfsufficientculture.com
 

mecoastie

Veteran Member
I would recommend looking into 2 Carol Deppe books. THE resilient gardener and breeding your own vegetable varieties. Also Will Bonsall wrote a book essential guide to radical self reliant gardening. I haven't read the Bonsall book but I do have it. Recommended by many different people and boards. If you want check on permies.com and look at Joseph Lofgren. He is growing crops to his specific climate. If I remember correctly he has even used beans and similar seeds from the grocery store to grow crops where he is at in Utah.

This x100. The Resilient Gardener is IMO the best for a true survival garden. She is from Washington state. She focuses on 5 things: Corn, Beans, Squash, Potatoes and Eggs. There are a number of greens and other things that she discusses as well. These are the crops I have based my growing plans around.

Bonsalls book is great also. He is from Maine. He is a vegan and does not use any form of animal input in his gardens. Well except human. He grows a variety of crops, mostly in smaller plots.

Both of these folks have been doing this for most of their life and truly know what they are talking about.

You could add Eliot Coleman to that list as well. He specializes in year-round gardening using unheated greenhouses in Maine.
 

WanderLore

Veteran Member
I put an apple in with my potatoes in the pantry and that keeps them from spouting so far I've been doing this for a few years and it really does seem to work
 

China Connection

TB Fanatic
Lots of idea and


Incredibly Abundant 1-Acre Permaculture Homestead Tour – Limestone Permaculture Farm Revisit

About 30 minutes long

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dztgMnaH1rw




Happen Films


Watch the first tour we did back in 2015! https://youtu.be/jSNc13cmknE In Episode 3 of Permaculture Tours we revisit the amazing Limestone Permaculture Farm. in NSW, Australia. We first visited Limestone back in 2015, when Brett and Nici were five years into developing their 1-acre permaculture property, working full time off-farm and creating their piece of paradise in their spare time. This revisit film was shot in October 2019 – four years on, Brett and Nici are full time at home, teaching permaculture and homesteading, offering farm tours, selling produce and thriving despite a severe drought and encroaching bushfires. Brett gives us a tour of the property, showing how things have changed and developed since we last visited, and Brett and Nici describe the motivation behind all their hard work. In a couple of weeks we’ll be making a podcast episode with Brett and Nici to talk about how they fared during Australia’s horrific 2019-20 bushfire season, their farm’s resilience to drought and more. Add a comment below if you have a question you’d be keen to ask them via the podcast!
 

dioptase

Veteran Member
That permaculture video was cool! I think I'd kind of draw the line at the gentleman's facility, though... :eek:
 

inskanoot

Veteran Member


13 Potential Health Benefits of Dandelion

Dandelion are a family of flowering plants that grow in many parts of the world.

They’re also known as Taraxacum spp., though Taraxacum officinale is the most common species.

You may be most familiar with dandelion as a stubborn weed that never seems to leave your lawn or garden.

However, in traditional herbal medicine practices, dandelion are revered for their wide array of medicinal properties.
For centuries, they’ve been used to treat a myriad of physical ailments, including cancer, acne, liver disease and digestive disorders.

Here are 13 potential health benefits of dandelion, and what science has to say about them.

1. Highly Nutritious

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In terms of nutritional content, the dandelion patch in your backyard can join the rankings with the rest of your vegetable garden.

From root to flower, dandelion are highly nutritious plants, loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber.

Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and serve as an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins (1).

What’s more, dandelion greens provide a substantial amount of several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium (1).

The root of the dandelion is rich in the carbohydrate inulin, which is a type of soluble fiber found in plants that supports the growth and maintenance of a healthy bacterial flora in your intestinal tract (2Trusted Source).

Dandelion root is often dried and consumed as a tea but can also be eaten in its whole form.

Summary
The nutritional content of dandelion extends to all parts of the plant. It’s a rich source of many vitamins, minerals and fiber.

2. Contain Potent Antioxidants

Dandelion are full of potent antioxidants, which may explain why this plant has such broad applications for health.
Antioxidants are molecules that help neutralize or prevent the negative effects of free radicals in your body.
Free radicals are a product of normal metabolism but can be very destructive. The presence of too many free radicals contributes to disease development and accelerated aging. Therefore, antioxidants are essential for keeping your body healthy.

Dandelion contain high levels of the antioxidant beta-carotene, which is known to provide strong protection against cellular damage and oxidative stress (3Trusted Source).

They’re also rich in another category of antioxidants called polyphenols, which are found in the highest concentration in the flower but are present in the roots, leaves and stems as well (4Trusted Source).

Summary
Dandelion are a rich source of beta-carotene and polyphenolic compounds, both of which are known to have strong antioxidant capabilities that can prevent aging and certain diseases.

3. May Help Fight Inflammation

Dandelion may be effective in reducing inflammation caused by disease due to the presence of various bioactive compounds like polyphenols within the plant.

Inflammation is one of your body’s natural responses to injury or illness. Over time, excessive inflammation can lead to permanent damage to your body’s tissues and DNA.

Some test-tube studies have revealed significantly reduced inflammation markers in cells treated with dandelion compounds (5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).

A study in mice with artificially induced inflammatory lung disease showed a significant reduction of lung inflammation in those animals that received dandelion (7Trusted Source).

Ultimately, more research is needed to clearly define dandelion’s role in reducing inflammation in humans.

Summary
Small animal and test-tube studies suggest that dandelion have a significant anti-inflammatory capacity, though more research is needed to better understand how dandelion affect inflammation in humans.

4. May Aid Blood Sugar Control

Chicoric and chlorogenic acid are two bioactive compounds in dandelion. They’re found in all parts of the plant and may help reduce blood sugar.

Test-tube and animal studies show that these compounds can improve insulin secretion from the pancreas while simultaneously improving the absorption of glucose (sugar) in muscle tissue.

This process leads to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced blood sugar levels(8Trusted Source).

In some animal studies, chicoric and chlorogenic acid limited the digestion of starchy carbohydrate foods, which may also contribute to dandelion’s potential ability to reduce blood sugar (4Trusted Source).

While these early study results are encouraging, more research is needed to determine if dandelion work the same way in humans.

Summary
The dandelion plant contains bioactive compounds that have been shown to reduce blood sugar in animal and test-tube studies. More research is needed to determine if the same effect would be seen in humans.

5. May Reduce Cholesterol

Some of the bioactive compounds in dandelion may lower cholesterol, which may decrease heart disease risk.
One animal study resulted in dramatically reduced cholesterol and triglyceridelevels in mice that were treated with dandelion extract (9Trusted Source).

A rabbit study evaluated the impact of adding dandelion roots and leaves to a high-cholesterol diet. Rabbits that received dandelion had noticeably reduced cholesterol levels (10Trusted Source).

Though these outcomes are intriguing, more research is needed to determine dandelion’s potential effects on cholesterol in humans.

Summary
Some animal studies have shown reduced cholesterol levels after consuming dandelion. More research is needed to understand how this plant affects levels in humans.

6. May Lower Blood Pressure

Some people claim that dandelion may reduce blood pressure, but supporting evidence is limited.

Traditional herbal medicine practices use dandelion for their diuretic effect based on the belief that this can detoxify certain organs.

In Western medicine, diuretic medications are used to rid the body of excess fluid, which can lead to lowered blood pressure.

One human study found dandelion to be an effective diuretic. However, this study was done over a short period and involved only 17 people (11Trusted Source).

Dandelion contain potassium, a mineral associated with lowered blood pressure in those with previously elevated levels. Thus, dandelion may have an indirect effect on blood pressure due to their potassium content (12Trusted Source).

It’s important to keep in mind that this effect is not unique to dandelion but applies to any potassium-rich food consumed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary
Dandelion may lower blood pressure due to their diuretic effect and potassium content. However, very little formal research has been conducted to support this claim.
 
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inskanoot

Veteran Member
Cont’d.



7. May Promote a Healthy Liver

Animal studies have found that dandelion have a protective effect on liver tissue in the presence of toxic substances and stress.

One study revealed significant protection of liver tissue in mice exposed to toxic levels of acetaminophen (Tylenol). Researchers attributed this finding to dandelion’s antioxidant content (13Trusted Source).

Other animal studies have shown that dandelion extract may reduce levels of excess fat stored in the liver and protect against oxidative stress in liver tissue (4Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source).

However, the same results should not be expected in humans due to differences in human and animal metabolism.
Further research is needed to determine how dandelion impact liver health in humans.

Summary
Animal studies have shown that dandelion protect liver tissue from toxic substances and oxidative stress, but more research is needed to determine their effect on liver health in humans.
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8. May Aid Weight Loss

Some research indicates that dandelion and their bioactive components may support weight loss and maintenance, though the data is not entirely conclusive.

Some researchers theorize that dandelion’s ability to improve carbohydrate metabolism and reduce fat absorption may lead to weight loss. However, this notion has yet to be scientifically proven (14Trusted Source).

One study in mice showed weight loss associated with dandelion supplementation, though it should be noted that this was an accidental finding and not the main focus of the study (9Trusted Source).

Another study in obese mice revealed that chlorogenic acid, a compound found in dandelion, was able to reduce body weight and levels of some fat-storage hormones (15Trusted Source).

Yet again, this research did not specifically evaluate dandelion’s role in weight loss and obesity prevention.

More focused, human-based research is needed to determine a clear cause-and-effect relationship between dandelion and weight management.
Summary
Some animal studies have shown that bioactive components in dandelion may support weight loss, but no human studies have evaluated this effect.
9. May Fight Cancer

Perhaps one of the most intriguing health claims of dandelion is their potential to prevent the growth of cancerous cells in many different organ systems.

One test-tube study revealed significantly reduced growth of cancerous cells that were treated with dandelion leaf extract. However, extracts from dandelion flower or root did not lead to the same result (16Trusted Source).

Other test-tube studies have shown that dandelion root extract has the capacity to dramatically slow the growth of cancer cells in liver, colon and pancreatic tissue (17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source, 19Trusted Source).

These findings are encouraging, but more research is fundamental to fully understand how dandelion may be useful in treating or preventing cancer in humans.
Summary
Several test-tube studies have found that dandelion is effective in reducing the growth of cancer cells in various organ tissues. More research is needed to draw conclusions about its efficacy for preventing or treating cancer in humans.
10. May Support Healthy Digestion and Treat Constipation

Traditional herbal medicine utilizes dandelion to treat constipation and other symptoms of impaired digestion. Some early research seems to support these claims.

One animal study revealed a significant increase in the rates of stomach contractions and emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine in rats who were treated with dandelion extract (20Trusted Source).

Additionally, dandelion root is a rich source of the prebiotic fiber inulin. Research indicates that inulin has a strong capacity to reduce constipation and increase intestinal movement (21Trusted Source).
Summary
Research indicates that dandelion may increase contractions and movement of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract, acting as a treatment for constipation and indigestion. This effect is likely due to the prebiotic fiber inulin.
11. May Boost Your Immune System

Some research indicates that dandelion may have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which could support your body’s ability to fight infection.

Several test-tube studies found that dandelion extract significantly reduced the ability of viruses to replicate (22Trusted Source, 23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source).

Research also indicates that some of the active compounds in dandelion protect against various harmful bacteria (4Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source, 26Trusted Source).

Ultimately, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions about dandelion’s ability to fight viral and bacterial infection in humans.
Summary
Early research indicates that dandelion have antiviral and antimicrobial properties, though clear applications for medicinal use have yet to be determined.
12. May Be a Useful Skincare Treatment

Animal and test-tube research indicate that dandelion may protect against skin damage from sunlight, aging and acne.
In one study, dandelion leaf and flower extracts protected against skin damagewhen applied just prior to or immediately after exposure to UVB radiation (sunlight). Interestingly, dandelion root was not effective in the same way (27Trusted Source).

One of the characteristics of aging skin is a decrease in the production of healthy, new skin cells.
One test-tube study showed that dandelion root extract increased the generation of new skin cells, which could slow the aging process (28Trusted Source).

Additional research indicates that dandelion extract may reduce skin inflammation and irritation while also increasing hydration and collagen production. This may be useful in preventing and treating certain types of acne (29Trusted Source).
Reliable human research is still needed to better understand how dandelion may support skin health.
Summary
Animal and test-tube studies indicate that dandelion may protect against harmful sun rays, aging and skin irritations, such as acne. Currently, reliable human studies are unavailable.
13. May Support Healthy Bones

Very little research has been conducted on dandelion’s effect on bone health, though some of its individual nutritional components contribute to the maintenance of strong, healthy bones.

Dandelion greens are a good source of calcium and vitamin K — both of which are associated with the prevention of bone loss (30Trusted Source, 31Trusted Source).

Inulin, a fiber found in dandelion root, may also support healthy bones through improved digestion and the promotion of healthy gut bacteria (32Trusted Source).
Summary
Research directly relating dandelion to bone health is lacking, though some nutritional components of the plant are known to support the maintenance of strong bones.
Dosage and Supplement Forms

Dandelion leaves, stems and flowers are often consumed in their natural state and can be eaten cooked or raw. The root is usually dried, ground and consumed as a tea or coffee substitute.

Dandelion is also available in supplemental forms, such as capsules, extracts and tinctures.

Currently, there are no clear dosage guidelines, as very little human research has been conducted on dandelion as a supplement.

According to some available data, suggested dosages for different forms of dandelion are (4Trusted Source):
  • Fresh leaves: 4–10 grams, daily.
  • Dried leaves: 4–10 grams, daily.
  • Leaf tincture: 0.4–1 teaspoon (2–5 ml), three times a day.
  • Fresh leaf juice: 1 teaspoon (5 ml), twice daily.
  • Fluid extract: 1–2 teaspoon (5–10 ml), daily.
  • Fresh roots: 2–8 grams, daily.
  • Dried powder: 250–1,000 mg, four times a day.
Summary
There are currently no clear dosage guidelines for dandelion supplements, as research is limited. Different forms of dandelion require different suggested doses.
Possible Risks and Side Effects

Dandelion have low toxicity and are likely safe for most people, especially when consumed as a food in its whole form (4Trusted Source).

However, keep in mind that research is still very limited and its use is not 100% risk-free.

Dandelion can cause allergic reactions, particularly in people with allergies to related plants like ragweed. Contact dermatitis can also occur in people with sensitive skin (4Trusted Source, 33Trusted Source).

Dandelion may interact unfavorably with some medications, especially certain diuretics and antibiotics (33Trusted Source).
If you’re taking any prescription medications, always consult your healthcare provider prior to taking dandelion.
Summary
Dandelion have low toxicity and are likely safe for most people. They can cause allergic reactions in some and may interact negatively with certain medications, particularly diuretics and antibiotics.
The Bottom Line

Dandelion are not a replacement for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, especially with regard to disease prevention and treatment.

Yet, they could be a unique and nutritious addition to your wellness routine.

Dandelion have the potential to provide some therapeutic health benefits — but don’t count on it. Research on specific applications for dandelion is lacking, especially in human studies.

Dandelion are unlikely to cause harm, as long as you’re not allergic or taking certain medications.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before adding a new herbal supplement to your diet.
 

rob0126

Veteran Member
In the south, it's beans, tomatoes, okra, peppers, onions, squash, corn, collards.

I just planted some bush beans and squash.

Hoping for the best.
 
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