>> Before telling others that they "lack a prerequisite to participate in a high level scientific discussion" (ooh, that smarts ;), I think you need to learn what the scientific method is, and most particularly what the burden of proof is (and who carries it when a particular claim is made). That fine and dandy for a particular experiment - when proving something, proof is needed. But when there is a body of research, you can't walk into a serious discussion without first being familiar with what research has already been done. In fact, you and brendan are "suggesting a new theory" - that dandelion has no proven effects on the liver or flow of bile. That is an issue that medical regulators have looked into, and decide. Unless you presenting new evidence to refute the accepted science, you have nothing to contribute to the discussion except for dilatory diversions. >> Specifically, when anyone is making a bold claim, either positive or negative, it is not someone else's responsibility to disprove the claim, but is rather the responsibility of the person who is making the bold claim to prove it." Specifically, when anyone is making a bold claim, either positive or negative, it is not someone else's responsibility to disprove the claim, but is rather the responsibility of the person who is making the bold claim to prove it." Nice sentiment, but do you live by it? Where is the proof for your statement that "The very best thing we can do for our livers is to leave them alone to do the job they are highly suited for" ?? It is not clear how we can 'leave the liver alone' in any case - we are always consuming various plant and animal substances. The only question is which ones have no effect, which are beneficial, and which should be limited or avoided.

Thanks! I ended up making a special trip to the store - just to be sure. Here's my recipe, which I've been using for a few years now. My kids love it!: http://proverbsthirtyonewoman.blogspot.com/2012/04/making-dandelion-jelly.html Here is a link that might be useful: Dandelion Jelly Recipe

Yes, it does get lighter when you add the lemon juice. Wild Violet Jelly Two cups fresh violet flowers (no stems), well rinsed and drained. 2 cups boiling water 1/4 cup bottled, strained lemon juice 4 cups sugar (1/2 teaspoon rosewater (very optional) 1 package liquid pectin Place rinsed flowers in glass bowl, pour boiling water over the flowers, cover and steep for at least two hours, overnight, or up to 24 hours. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve and use a wooden spoon to press all the liquid from the flowers, then squeeze the rest of the liquid out. It will be dark purple/blue. If necessary, you can store this infusion in the fridge for a few days. Put infusion into a large stainless pot, add lemon juice - it will turn light purple. Add sugar and bring to a rolling boil, stirring frequently to ensure that the sugar dissolves. Let it continue to boil for a few minutes, and when you have a good rolling boil, add the liquid pectin - return to a boil, stirring constantly (it will foam up ALOT) and cook for exactly 1 minute. Remove from heat, and follow the instructions for filling jars. Wipe the rims, put on the lids, and screw on the rings, and process for 10 minutes in hot water bath.

I personally think they add "character" to a grass lawn, they are nice cheerful yellow flowers, and their leaves can be used in tea. If these are weeds, there are much worse. Other people feel very differently, and they can spread fast and get unmanageable.