Large edible first year roots are eaten raw sliced in salads or steamed as vegetables esp. in Asia. Loose rich soil promotes root growth and an easier harvest. Harvest roots the fall of the first year or early spring of the second year. Highly esteemed herbal blood purifier; it is alternative, diuretic, diaphoretic, and delicious. Traditional treatment for gout, kidney stones, acne, and elimination of toxins. The root contains up to 50% inulin, making it a good choice for diabetics. Grown commercially in Europe, China. A common naturalized weed, it's a host plant for the American Painted Lady butterfly.