Dandelion Root Tea

The scientific name of dandelion is Taraxacum officinale. It is normally not found in the Southern hemisphere. It is the north temperate zones, that are home to the dandelion root. More often than not, dandelion root grows in pastures, meadows or on waste grounds. It grows in plentiful, annoying the farmers. Many times it is dismissed as weed, but there are people, who value it for the health benefits the dandelion root tea has to offer. It is used to treat a wide range of health problems. Many of us are not aware of the culinary uses of dandelion.

Dandelion Root Tea Benefits

Some people call dandelion, "the tooth of lion" and use it as a springtime healer. Not only are the roots of dandelion useful, but the other parts are also used either for food or medicinal purposes. The leaves and crowns are used for salads and cooked greens, while the flowers are used for making wine and the juice is used against warts and blisters.

• Dandelion root tea is known as a blood and kidney cleaner.
• It is also used as a tonic. Dandelion root is rich in vitamins, minerals and micro-nutrients.
• Diuretic uses of dandelion tea are also well-known.
• It is used as a general cleansing stimulant for the liver and can also be used to treat any malfunction of the liver.
• It is also said to be beneficial for people suffering from diabetes, as it contains inulin, which plays an important role in controlling diabetes.
• Dandelion can also be used in the treatment of hepatitis.
• It is also said to be useful to clear obstructions of the spleen, pancreas, gallbladder as well as the kidneys.
• Dandelion root tea is also beneficial for the stomach and intestines and also for balancing the enzymes, which also help in digestion, assimilation and elimination.
• Not many people are aware of the fact, that regular consumption of dandelion root tea decreases the amounts of cholesterol and uric acid in the body.
• It is said to be especially beneficial for women in their menopausal phase.
• It can also be used to treat abscesses, boils, breast tumors, etc.
• It is an excellent tonic to treat anemia.
• Liver cirrhosis can also be treated with regular consumption of dandelion tea.
• The leaves of dandelion are eaten to reduce excess acidity, oxygenate, purify and build blood.
• It is also used to regenerate cells.
• There are also known benefits of dandelion in treating metabolic disturbances, bone disorders, low blood pressure, etc.

Dandelion Root Tea Side Effects

Dandelion root tea is normally safe and gentle, however, some people may have an allergic reaction to it. It is important to note, that dandelion root tea should not be take with any other diuretics or any drugs, which have a diuretic action. If you are on diabetes drugs, you should be careful while taking dandelion root tea, as dandelion root can intensify the blood sugar lowering effects of the drugs. It should not be taken by a person, who suffers from diarrhea.

Dandelion Root Tea - How to Make

Now that we have seen the benefits and side effects, we will now see the dandelion root tea recipes.

How to Make Dandelion Root Tea
This recipe requires dried dandelion leaves. If you are going to use fresh leaves, then you will have to double the amount.

Ingredients

• Water 4 cups
• Dried Dandelion Root (at least 1 to 2 years old) 6 tbsp
• Dried Dandelion Leaf 6 tbsp

Method

• Place the water in a pot, add dandelion root to the water.
• Let the water simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.
• Strain the tea over the leaves.
• Cover and let the leaves steep in water for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Strain the tea and drink it immediately.

How to Make Roasted Dandelion Root Tea
This dandelion root tea is known as chai in the Middle East and is a spicy tea. With this recipe, you will make the tea mixture. Use 1 tablespoon of the mixture to make 1 cup of tea.

Ingredients

• Roasted Dandelion Root 1 cup
• Fennel Seeds 6 tbsp
• Cardamom 36 green pods
• Cloves 40
• Cinnamon 4 sticks
• Dried Ginger Root 2 tbsp
• Black Peppercorns 1 ½ tsp
• Bay Leaves 5

Method

• Roast fennel seeds, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns and bay leaves for about 30 seconds.
• Then add roasted dandelion root to it.
• Now you can grind the mixture or use it without grinding as well.
• In a pot take 1 cup of water and add 1 tablespoon of the mixture and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
• If you want you can add honey or brown sugar sweeten the tea.
• Strain the tea and reheat it again before you drink it.

If you are new to dandelion root tea, then it is recommended you start consuming it, after speaking with your physician. In case you notice any side effects of dandelion root tea, seek medical advice immediately.