ALL LAST WEEK, thoughts of a lion kept circulating in my mind. I felt happy because the thoughts about this lion were very positive and laced with happiness.
This lion, unlike the white one at Gun Hill in St George, was black, large and powerful. It actually reminded me of a Mandingo.
So what was really happening to me? I became very concerned about the thoughts of this raging lion and did some research. It was revealed that spiritually the lion signifies intuition, courage, pride, ferocity, dominion, playfulness, family, patience, fearless communication, awareness, silence and focus. Further, I began to associate this Mandingo looking lion with silent doctor dandelion. I believe that spirit was revealing truth to me.
Taraxacum campylodes G. E Haglund, also known as priest’s crown, milk gowan, white endive, puff ball, lion’s tooth, blowball, dandelion or swine snout, is a popular roadside and undervalued silent doctor in Barbados. Each time I identify dandelion to residents, they often remark: “Wait, I ain’t know dandelion does grow here.”
I continue to cherish the medicinal value of this yellow flower herb and will share some of the health benefits with readers. Research indicates that dandelion is used to treat many health challenges, including diabetes, heartburn, liver congestion, pneumonia, jaundice, nervousness, fever and chills. Research on www.organicfacts.net has revealed that “dandelion juice can help diabetic patients by stimulating the production of insulin from the pancreas, thereby keeping the blood sugar level low. Since dandelions are diuretic in nature, they increase urination in diabetic patients, which helps remove the excess sugar from the body”.
Further, webpage sunwarrior.com states: “Its ability to combat cancer is not a claim made lightly, but dandelion seems to show promise in study after study after study. Dandelion may slow cancer’s growth and prevent it from spreading. The leaves are especially rich in the antioxidants and phytonutrients that combat cancer.”
Dandelion will also treat gastrointestinal ailments and inflammation. It promotes appetite, heals wounds, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure, and can assist with gall bladder problems and blockages.
They are about 12 or more benefits of dandelion. You must do your research, locate it and plant some in your kitchen garden. It makes a good tea and tastes very crunchy in a fresh vegetable salad. You can also add some dry dandelion to your skin oil to maintain radiant skin.
I did my research years ago on dandelion and believe it or not, I am still researching. While you are doing your research, I will go into my bed and continue to do more spiritual research about my Mandingo lion.
• Annette Maynard-Watson, a teacher and herbal educator, may be contacted via silentdoctors@gmail.com or by telephone 250-6450.
DISCLAIMER: It is not our intention to prescribe or make specific claims for any products. Any attempts to diagnose or treat real illness should come under the direction of your health care provider.