2 Summer Weeds that Heal & How to Prepare

As part of our summer series 2025, we are acknowledging the common weeds that get a bad wrap. I happen to blend my dandelion root tea with mint, cool and serve over ice for a gentle summer beverage. Below you will find the healing properties and a few ways to prepare each. We invite you to explore your garden. If newly, bringing mint into your garden be sure to contain it as it will take over your garden!

1. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)A classic "weed" with powerful healing properties from root to flower.

Healing Properties:

• Liver detoxifier (especially the root)

• Digestive aid (bitter leaves stimulate bile)

• Anti-inflammatory

• Diuretic (helps with water retention)

• Rich in minerals (especially potassium, calcium, iron)

  
  

How to Use Dandelion:

Tea (Leaves or Roots):

• Dry or use fresh leaves.

• Steep 1–2 teaspoons per cup of hot water for 10 minutes.

• Use roots for liver support; roast them for a coffee-like tea.

  
  

Fresh Leaf Salad or Pesto:

• Pick young leaves (they are less bitter).

• Blend with garlic, lemon, and olive oil for a peppery pesto.

  
  

Infused Vinegar (Tonic):

• Pack leaves or flowers into a clean jar.

• Cover with raw apple cider vinegar.

• Let steep for 2–4 weeks, then strain.

• Use in salad dressings or take a spoonful daily as a digestive tonic.

  
  

Dandelion Flower Oil (for skin):

• Let freshly picked flowers wilt for a few hours to remove moisture.

• Cover them with olive oil in a jar.

• Infuse in a sunny window for 2–4 weeks.

• Strain and use on sore muscles, joints, or dry skin.

  
  

2. Mint (Mentha species) Cooling, calming, and wildly abundant in summer.

Healing Properties:

• Digestive support (eases gas, nausea, bloating)

• Cooling for fevers or hot flashes

• Mood-lifting (helps anxiety, mental fatigue)

• Antimicrobial (supports oral and respiratory health)

  
  

How to Use Mint:

Tea (Fresh or Dried):

• Use a handful of fresh leaves or 1–2 teaspoons dried.

• Steep for 5–10 minutes in hot water.

• Also delicious iced as a refreshing summer drink.

  
  

Mint Honey (for colds and digestion):

• Chop fresh mint and stir into raw honey.

• Let sit a few days to infuse.

• Take by the spoonful or stir into teas.

  
  

Mint-Infused Oil (topical use):

• Wilt mint leaves slightly before use.

• Steep them in a carrier oil like almond or jojoba.

• Let sit in a warm place for 1–2 weeks.

• Strain and use for headaches (dab on temples) or in bath oil blends.

  
  

Cooling Compress:

• Make a strong mint tea and let it cool in the fridge.

• Soak a cloth in the tea and place it on the forehead or back of the neck to reduce heat or calm tension.

  
  

Harvest Tips for Both Plants:

• Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried.

• Choose clean, pesticide-free areas (avoid roadsides).

• Rinse gently and allow plants to wilt slightly before oil infusions to reduce moisture and prevent spoilage.

Happy healing! Ps the bee's will love you for leaving your dandelions in the garden to bask in.