Helps Improve Digestion And Gut Flora
Because dandelion root is full of gut-friendly fiber, it’s no wonder it improves digestion. Research has found the dandelion plant to increase Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, the two most common species used as probiotics and associated with gut health. Dandelion tea may therefore decrease bloating, gas, and general digestive discomfort.
Bitters made from dandelion greens are also a common remedy for digestive maladies.
How To Make Dandelion Tea
There are so many ways to incorporate the dandelion plant into your every day meals. One of the best ways to experience all of the dandelion benefits is by making your own dandelion tea.
If you like to drink;other herbal teas such as chamomile or nettle,;you may also enjoy dandelion tea and vice versa.
You can make tea with the dandelion roots or flowers. Its very easy; follow these simple directions:
- Steep about one tablespoon of the stems or flowers for 30 minutes in five ounces of boiling water.
- Strain the roots and flowers or drink them up with your tea.
- This recipe can be doubled or tripled if you plan on making several days worth of tea.
You can also buy organic dandelion tea bags at most health food stores. You may even find teabags that are made with both dandelion and turmeric.
You can also roast the root of your dandelion plant to make a coffee-like beverage. Heres how its done:
- After cleaning the root, chop it in a food processor.
- Use a baking sheet and roast the pieces in an oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours.
- Then let it steep in boiling water for 10 minutes before drinking.
Possible Side Effects Of Dandelion Root
Dandelion root is generally considered safe and well-tolerated in adults if taken in moderation. Some people may experience side effects, including:
- Heartburn
- Yarrow
- Plants in the Asteraceae family
People who are allergic to dandelion root may experience rash, watery eyes, and other allergy symptoms. Dandelion also contains iodine and latex, so avoid it if you have allergies to either of these substances.
Pregnant women, nursing women, and children are advised to avoid dandelion remedies due to the lack of research into their long-term safety. It is also possible that consuming too much dandelion may reduce fertility in women and testosterone levels in men. This may occur because of a substance in the plant called phytoestrogen, which mimics estrogen.
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Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Akhtar, M. S., Khan, Q. M., and Khaliq, T. Effects of Portulaca oleracae and Taraxacum officinale in normoglycaemic and alloxan-treated hyperglycaemic rabbits. J Pak.Med Assoc 1985;35:207-210. View abstract.
Bohm K. Studies on the choleretic action of some drugs. Azneim-Forsh 1959;9:376-378.
Catania, M. A., Oteri, A., Caiello, P., Russo, A., Salvo, F., Giustini, E. S., Caputi, A. P., and Polimeni, G. Hemorrhagic cystitis induced by an herbal mixture. South.Med.J. 2010;103:90-92. View abstract.
Chen, Z. . Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. 1990;10:71-4, 67. View abstract.
Clare, B. A., Conroy, R. S., and Spelman, K. The diuretic effect in human subjects of an extract of Taraxacum officinale folium over a single day. J Altern.Complement Med 2009;15:929-934. View abstract.
Collins JM and Miller DR. Dandelion green bezoar following antrectomy and vagotomy – case report. J Kansas Med Soc 1966;67:303-304. View abstract.
Davies, M. G. and Kersey, P. J. Contact allergy to yarrow and dandelion. Contact Dermatitis 1986;14:256-257. View abstract.
Fernandez-Gonzalez, D., Gonzalez-Parrado, Z., Vega-Maray, A. M., Valencia-Barrera, R. M., Camazon-Izquierdo, B., De, Nuntiis P., and Mandrioli, P. Platanus pollen allergen, Pla a 1: quantification in the atmosphere and influence on a sensitizing population. Clin Exp Allergy 2010;40:1701-1708. View abstract.
Syhaieva, I. A. . Lik.Sprava. 2006;:51-53. View abstract.
Dandelion Extract Drug Interactions
Because dandelion extract goes through the blood, liver, and kidneys when ingested, it may interact and cause changes in the prescribed effects of some drugs:
- Antibiotics
Consult your physician before making changes to your medicine intake or before drinking dandelion extract.
Don’t forget to download, save, or share this handy infographic for reference:
Dandelions are more than just pesky weeds, as presented above. Whether youre taking dandelion root tincture, tea, or roasted coffee, it can greatly benefit your health.
Do note, however, the plants recommended intake dosages, allergy warnings, drug interactions, and effects before taking it in any form. As with everything else, consult your doctor.
How do you like your dandelion root extract? Do you know of other recipes that use the dandelion herb? Lets talk about this herbal medicine in the comments below!
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High In Vitamins And Nutritious
;The dandelion packs a mighty punch and comes full of all kinds of vitamins and minerals. Dandelion tea is high in vitamin A and vitamin C, both of which boost the immune system and encourages healthy cell growth. It also helps our eyesight and reduces the signs of premature aging. Dandelions are also brightened with vitamin K which helps bone health and is essential to blood clotting. Dandelions are also rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium making them a nutritionists dream and excellent for your overall wellness.;
Gives Tons Of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are just about the best thing your body can get and luckily dandelion tea delivers a high dose. It is;especially high in beta-carotene which helps prevent cellular damage and oxidative stress. Antioxidants are super important for helping your body to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals contribute to everything from speeding up the signs of aging to developing disease so anything you can do to cut out their presence in the body is going to greatly improve your health.
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Dandelion Leaf Tea Has A Delicate Taste
Dandelion flower tea is very delicate. None of its intricate flavors really force their way to the front and it all Blends together quite nicely with no real standout flavor from the infusion.
This makes it an ideal tea to mix with other teas without changing the flavor too much. It wont overpower most of the other flower herbal teas.
Chamomile tea, check out our flavor profile, is a great infusion to blend with dandelion flower tea. Hibiscus tea, here are some of my favorites also makes a great blend for dandelion flower tea.
Dried Dandelions Ready To Be Infused
Dosage And Supplement Forms
Dandelion leaves, stems and flowers are often consumed in their natural state and can be eaten cooked or raw. The root is usually dried, ground and consumed as a tea or coffee substitute.
Dandelion is also available in supplemental forms, such as capsules, extracts and tinctures.
Currently, there are no clear dosage guidelines, as very little human research has been conducted on dandelion as a supplement.
According to some available data, suggested dosages for different forms of dandelion are (
- Fresh leaves: 410 grams, daily.
- Dried leaves: 410 grams, daily.
- Leaf tincture: 0.41 teaspoon , three times a day.
- Fresh leaf juice: 1 teaspoon , twice daily.
- Fluid extract: 12 teaspoon , daily.
- Fresh roots: 28 grams, daily.
- Dried powder: 2501,000 mg, four times a day.
Summary
There are currently no clear dosage guidelines for dandelion supplements, as research is limited. Different forms of dandelion require different suggested doses.
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Dandelion Root Tea Benefits Skin
Your skin is the bodys largest organ, one that requires ample care and attention to keep it fresh, vibrant and youthful. Acne, on the other hand, is a skin condition that often gets in the way of your skin-care goals.
It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This then leads to breakouts in whiteheads, blackheads or pimples on the face, forehead, chest, back or shoulders.
The good news is that Dandelion Tea benefits for skin health have been well documented, including in a 2011 study published in Toxicological Research. It established that Dandelion Teas anti-inflammatory properties reduced acne-related inflammation while increasing hydration and collagen production.
It has anti-ageing properties, too, according to a 2012 Japanese study. What could be better than that?
Dandelion Flower Tea Is A Little Sweet
There is a very slight bit of natural sweetness in dandelion flower tea. It helps to counteract the earthiness and slightly bitter taste that sometimes comes through in this infusion.
I find the sweetness to be just about perfect for a cup of tea, but some people might want a little bit more sweetness.
In this case, a couple of drops of honey make for a nice little sweet boost to this wonderful floral tea.
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How To Use Dandelion Root
Traditionally, the root was roasted and consumed as a beverage, while the leaves were used in salads, soups, and sandwiches. Today, its still used in very much the same way, most popularly in tea and as a coffee substitute that acts as a dandelion-root detox. Its also available in capsules, powders, and extracts. I prefer it to be in a tincture form, and it is best taken in a small amount of water two to three times per day, says Brown.;My favorite companies for dandelion tinctures would be Wise Woman Herbals, Herb Pharm, and Gaia Herbs.
Could Help Kill Cancer
Dandelion greens also contain antioxidants such as vitamins A and C, which can help fight cancer. Dandelion root is also praised for its anti-cancer potential. In a study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2010, dandelion root extract induced cell death in melanoma cells without destroying non-cancerous cells. Another study published in the journal Pancreas in 2012 showed the same effect, but on pancreatic cancer cells.
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Possible Side Effects Of Dandelion Tea
Although there are many health benefits to dandelion tea, there are also some dandelion tea detox side effects to keep in mind. Its important to talk to your doctor to confirm whether dandelion is safe for you due to its possible interaction with certain medications. Here are some dandelion tea detox side effects and interactions:
- Dandelion root tea may negatively impact digestion and cause diarrhea, heartburn, or stomach inflammation.
- Some people are allergic to dandelion, especially if they are allergic to ragweed or related plants such as marigolds, chrysanthemums, or daisies.
- Dandelion may interact with antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, sparfloxacin, trovafloxacin, grepafloxacin, and enoxacin.
- Dandelion may also interact with diuretic pills due to the diuretic effect of the herb.
- Dandelion may also reduce how quickly the liver breaks down certain medications such as propranolol, theophylline, verapamil, ondansetron, haloperidol, and amitriptyline.
Buy The Best Dandelion Tea:
Dandelion Root Tea is the most popular form of dandelion tea.;In fact, its popularity continues to grow each year and it is quickly becoming one of the most popular herbal teas on the market!
It is made with dandelion roots, as you might have guessed from its name, and it is known for its dark appearance and bitter flavor.
We like that this one tastes particularly good regardless of whether served hot or cold. That versatility of taste makes it a great candidate for year round consumption. Why? Because, often times, herbal tea drinkers prefer their teas warm in the winter months and cool in the summer months. This particular dandelion root tea will allow you to do just that!
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May Support Healthy Digestion And Treat Constipation
Traditional herbal medicine utilizes dandelion to treat constipation and other symptoms of impaired digestion. Some early research seems to support these claims.
One animal study revealed a significant increase in the rates of stomach contractions and emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine in rats who were treated with dandelion extract .
Additionally, dandelion root is a rich source of the prebiotic fiber inulin. Research indicates that inulin has a strong capacity to reduce constipation and increase intestinal movement .
Summary
Research indicates that dandelion may increase contractions and movement of your gastrointestinal tract, acting as a treatment for constipation and indigestion. This effect is likely due to the prebiotic fiber inulin.
Nutritional Analysis Of Dandelion Tea
It may surprise you to learn that dandelions are actually quite healthy to consume, despite their reputation as the bane of suburban landscapers. Dandelion roots, greens, flowers, and stems can all be made into a delicious and healthy tea.
Why is dandelion tea good for you? Lets take a look at the nutritional information of dandelion greens. The greens are loaded with vitamin K. In fact, they contain 535% of your daily value in just one cup. Other key nutrients include fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, and B vitamins such as B1, B2, B3, B6, and folate. It also contains electrolytes such as potassium and sodium.
Dandelion root is a nutritional powerhouse, and among its active ingredients are inulin and sesquiterpene lactones. Other important nutrients include potassium, iron, calcium, boron, silicon, manganese, copper, folate, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.
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Toxicity And Free Radicals
Multiple studies have shown dandelion to be a potent detoxifying agent. A 2015 study from Spains University of San Pablo found that five different Taraxacum species effectively reduced free radical levels within the tissues . A 2001 study found that dandelion;increased the livers production of superoxide dismutase and catalase, increasing the livers ability to purify the blood of toxins;.
The lupeol trierpenes in dandelion;illustrated antitumor effects .
UDP-glucuronosyl transferase, another important detoxifying liver;enzyme, was increased 244% from controls by dandelion;extract .
Their Mechanism Of Action Is Different
Studies have shown that milk thistle improves the regenerative potential of your liver.
The liver is a very forgiving organ. When damaged, it can regenerate through a process where new cells are produced to replace damaged cells.
That entire process is greatly enhanced by milk thistle.
Dandelion root, on the other hand, increases the secretory potential of the liver especially in the production and secretion of bile.
So basically, milk thistle supports the health of the liver while dandelion boosts its function.
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Dandelion Root Tea Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can be caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as drinking too much alcohol, smoking, being overweight and not exercising enough.
When not addressed, it could lead to many serious issues, heart and circulatory diseases, strokes, eyesight complications and vascular dementia among them. Which prompts the question: What case can be made that Dandelion Tea benefits blood pressure?
Dandelion Teas potassium content could play a considerable role. This mineral has long been associated with lowered blood pressure in those with previously high levels.
The infusion may, therefore, have an indirect effect – and, we must admit, a small one at that. Should you have any concerns or already be on blood pressure-lowering drugs, wed urge you to seek medical consultation before brewing.
Shortens The Length Of The Flu
Flu season is never any fun and for those who have been struck down by influenza, you may want to sip on some dandelion tea to help your body get fighting fit and back to normal. Dandelion extract has been studied to see if it can reduce virus levels. While this test was done in vitro and human studies are needed, the;results did show a positive result that dandelion can cut down flu time;without negative effects.
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Full Of Vitamins And Minerals
For a plant often considered a nuisance, dandelion packs a healthy punch. One ounce of dandelion greens contains the following, according to the USDA:
- Vitamin K: 184% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 11% DV
Lab studies have shown dandelion to lower blood sugar levels, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center .
Dandelions contain a substance called fructo-oligosaccharides that can stabilize blood sugar levels, per an August 2016 review published in The Review of Diabetic Studies. Dandelion also has anti-inflammatory properties.
More research with clinical trials involving humans is needed to more fully understand if dandelion can help people with type 2 diabetes.
More Herbal Tea Recipes To Try
Banana Tea; When taken about an hour before bed, banana peel tea can help calm the nervous system and help the body prepare for deep sleep. Thats because banana peels contain compounds that our bodies use to make melatonin, plus potassium and magnesium .
Its mildly sweet, and all you need to make it is a banana peel .
Moon Milk Theres something that just feels so beautiful and therapeutic even enchanting about whipping up a nighttime cup of moon milk with sleep supporting herbs. Well dive into its Ayurvedic origins and benefits, plus how to make four yummy versions.
Elderberry Tea; Elderberries are revered for their ability to support the immune system, but they have other benefits, too! For example, they contain flavonoids and anthocyanins that help the body absorb vitamin C a vital nutrient that assists with collagen production and a variety of other processes. They need a little extra coaxing to release their therapeutic compounds, and I explain whats needed in this recipe.
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Milk Thistle Helps Regenerate Liver Cells
Milk thistle is one of the few herbs that can actively manage liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis.
In such conditions, liver cells are damaged. Some parts may even start to die off.
Fortunately, milk thistle helps improve the livers regenerative potential, making it possible for the liver to grow and compensate for damaged areas.
It Helps With Weight Loss:
Besides its diuretic effect, evidence published in the journal Nutrition Research and Practice in 2008 using mice suggests that dandelion benefits weight loss in a similar way as Orlistat, a weight-loss drug. Orlistat inhibits pancreatic lipase, which an enzyme released during digestion while breaking down fat.
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