Dandelion tea is one of the most commercially available herbal teas. Known by most of us as just a weed that grows in our gardens, dandelion has a surprising amount of health benefits and has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes.
It is very popular in Chinese medicine and is believed to aid the symptoms of appendicitis. It can also be used as a cooking ingredient. American Indian tribes used dandelion as an indigestion aid, to ease stomach cramps and even premenstrual syndrome.
Health Benefits of Dandelion Tea
The herb tea can be made from three different parts of the plant: the flower, the leaves (which are packed with vitamins and minerals), and the root. It is believed that dandelion root tea has the most health benefits, but all three types have excellent medicinal properties.
- Dandelion leaf tea is an excellent supplement for helping with digestive issues, such as diarrhea and constipation. It is also used in many herbal detoxification formulas. Dandelion tea is also a diuretic that helps improve liver and kidney function. It can aid sufferers of hepatitis and those with liver disease. The tea is believed to regulate electrolytes in the blood, which may help to restore balance after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting.
- Due to its natural detoxification properties, dandelion can help to aid weight loss. The tea also works as a cleanser to improve the appearance of the skin. It is a powerful antioxidant, which can also help to ward off viruses and strengthen the immune system.
- It is an anti-inflammatory, dandelion root tea can help sufferers of arthritis and rheumatism if consumed regularly.
- Dandelion leaf tea is believed to be able to help sufferers of diabetes (both type 1 & 2) and can also help lower cholesterol.
- Memory loss due to age is believed to be alleviated by regular consumption of dandelion root tea and so may help those with the early signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
- Dandelion herb tea is a popular choice as a coffee substitute and has none of the side effects usually associated with drinking coffee regularly.
- As already stated, dandelion can be used as a wash when the tea is steeped slightly longer than normal. The tea can be applied directly to the skin to help cleanse the pores, giving clearer, brighter skin and can be ideal for teenagers and others who may be prone to acne. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, dandelion is also ideal to use as a wash on wounds such as small scalds or burns and bruises.
Side Effects of Dandelion Root Tea
Although normally thought of as a safe herbal remedy, those prone to allergic reactions should use with care as should diabetes sufferers, as the dandelion tea could have an adverse effect on blood sugar medications.
Purchase high-quality organic herbs, teas, and essential oils from Mountain Rose Herbs.
