Dandelion is thought to have come from Persia (now Iran) where it was one of their important herbs. Later, it was used in ancient Greece and it is thought to have been one of the bitter herbs mentioned in the Old Testament. Introduced to North America by the early settlers, it became naturalized - now the bane of the gardeners worldwide! Dandelion has been used in traditional remedies, as a restorative tonic, an edible food, and in herbal beers and wines. Its leaves are a common and important herb for western apothecaries. The young leaves are often found in fancy spring salads. Make an excellent tea.
