Edible Parts: Leaves  Root  Shoots  Stem
Edible Uses:

Root - raw or cooked[2, 9, 12, 52, 100]. The roots have a sweet flavour due to their inulin content[7]. The young roots can be eaten raw whilst older roots are best cooked like parsnips or salsify[9]. They are often blanched before use[183]. Young leaves and shoots - raw or cooked[2, 5, 12, 52, 62, 183]. They can be added to mixed salads or used in soups etc[7, 9]. The leaves are best used as they come into growth in the spring[9]. The flowering stem, including the buds, is cooked and served like asparagus[183].

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Astringent  Depurative  Diuretic  Expectorant  Stomachic

Goat's beard is considered to be a useful remedy for the liver and gallbladder[254]. It appears to have a detoxifying effect and may stimulate the appetite and digestion. Its high inulin content makes this herb a useful food for diabetics since inulin is a nutrient made of fructose rather than glucose units and therefore does not raise blood sugar levels[254]. The root is astringent, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, nutritive and stomachic[7, 21]. A syrup made from the root gives great relief in cases of obstinate coughs and bronchitis[7]. A decoction of the root is given in the treatment of heartburn, loss of appetite and disorders of the breast or liver[240]. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[7]. The fresh juice of young plants is said to be a good dissolver of bile, relieving the stomach without side effects[4].

Cosmetic

An infusion of the petals is used to clear the skin and lighten freckles[7]. A distilled water made from the plant is used in cleansing lotions for dry skins[7].

Special Uses