Green, white, jasmine, lemongrass…there is an abundance of herbal teas on the market, each offering apparent health benefits. One you might not have tried is dandelion tea, which is purported to be a powerful antioxidant and heal the body inside and out
What is Dandelion Tea?
Yes, dandelion tea is made from the fluffy flower, with its leaves and roots dried and turned into tea.
Dandelions have been used traditionally for centuries in a variety of ways – as a tea, in salads, cooked up as a meal accompaniment and even in wine. It’s easy to see why, given the dandelion’s alleged healing properties.
What are the Health Benefits of Dandelion Tea?
Drink up! Dandelion tea may benefit your health and wellbeing in the following ways:
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Age gracefully: as an antioxidant, dandelion tea is said to help improve the effects of ageing and protect the body from free radicals, which can damage the cells.
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A wee benefit: a US study recently found that dandelion tea may has a diuretic effect, increasing the body’s urine production.
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Blood sugar: initial studies have suggested that dandelion tea may help in regulating blood sugar levels.
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Cut cholesterol: some people credit dandelion tea with reducing cholesterol.
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Stay pure: some health experts say dandelion root purifies the blood and, in doing so, cleanses the kidneys and liver.
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Better digestion: since the flower is potassium-rich, it is also said to help with appetite control and improve digestion.
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Move better: your musculoskeletal system is also likely to benefit from a healthy dose of dandelion. The tea allegedly helps reduce the severity of arthritis.
How to Drink Dandelion Tea
A word of warning: the taste of dandelion tea may take some getting used to. It has a bitter taste and, if left to steep for too long, can be quite powerful.
That being said, dandelion tea is great for weaning yourself off coffee, due to its strength.
To brew, add a scoop to a teapot and let it steep for half a minute or so. Over time, you may like to let it steep for longer.
If you’re unsure of how to use dandelion tea, or would like to use it for medicinal purposes, it’s a good idea to contact a naturopath or nutritionist.
Enjoy!
