Dandelion Greens

Dandelion greens may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Avoid dandelion extracts, teas, tinctures, pills, and powders, as research on their safety for babies and toddlers is limited.

Dandelions are native to Asia and Europe, but today, the hardy plant thrives in temperate regions worldwide. Their name in English comes from the French for “lion’s tooth,” a nod to the serrated edges of the plant’s leaves. While dandelions grow wild with little encouragement, they are also cultivated in some areas to help the plants grow large, hearty leaves, which are popular for bringing a slightly bitter flavor to pestos, salads, and sautees.

• Cooking dandelion greens until soft can mellow their bitter flavor, if desired.

• Store fresh dandelion greens in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel or sealed in a bag for up to 4 days.

• Rinse thoroughly before cooking, especially if the greens are foraged or from a garden.

No. Dandelion greens present a low risk when safely prepared for a child’s age and developmental ability, though, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve dandelion greens in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. Note also that pieces of leafy greens can stick to baby’s tongue or the roof of the mouth, causing some harmless gagging. As always, create a safe eating environment and stay within reach of baby during meals. 

Learn the signs of choking and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No, dandelion greens are not a common allergen, although reactions have been reported.^[1] Dandelion greens can cause symptoms of Oral Allergy Syndrome (also called pollen food allergy syndrome), especially in individuals allergic to ragweed pollen. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Cooking dandelion greens may help minimize and even eliminate the reaction.^{[2] [3]}

Individuals with contact allergies to plants in the Compositae/Asteraceae family (such as daisies, marigold, and chrysanthemum) may also experience rashes after contact with dandelion greens.^[4] Washing hands after preparing and eating dandelion greens can help reduce the likelihood of a reaction.

Yes. Dandelion greens are especially rich in fiber and vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin. Together, these nutrients work to support healthy digestion, vision, immunity, metabolism, bone health, blood clotting, and much more. Make sure to source your dandelion greens from a reputable source, such as the grocery store or farmers’ market. Do not pick dandelion greens from off the street, sidewalk, or other public areas, as they may have been exposed to unsafe amounts of contaminants such as pesticides.

Dandelion greens are rich in vitamin K, an important nutrient for blood clotting that can interact with certain medications. Check with your doctor if your child is on any medications before offering dandelion greens regularly. 

Avoid dandelion extracts, teas, tinctures, pills, and powders, as research on their safety for babies and toddlers is limited.

Only serve foraged dandelion greens if you're confident that they haven’t been exposed to pesticides, herbicides, or pet waste.