Dandelion is a powerful medicinal herb that is said to help with numerous health issues and strengthen the immune system. We’ll show you how to make dandelion tea and take a closer look at its health benefits.
Dandelions are hardy plants that take root in almost any soil. It’s no wonder you see them popping up everywhere including fields, parks, lawns and gardens.
Dandelion Tea Recipe
Dandelion tea has a spicy/tart to slightly bitter taste. Here’s how to make dandelion tea:
- 1 tablespoon dried dandelion roots and leaves
- 1 cup of cold water
Start by adding the dried roots and leaves to the water. Place over high heat and allow to boil for 1 minute. Then allow the tea to steep for another ten minutes. Strain through a sieve and enjoy.
In order to reap the health benefits of dandelion tea, drink two cups per day for a period of eight weeks.
Picking and Drying Dandelions for Tea
Younger dandelion leaves taste the best; look for them from about early May to September. If you want to harvest the flowers, April and May are the ideal months for foraging. If it’s the roots that you’re after, the best time to dig them up is in the spring or the fall.
Tip: Dandelion flowers can also be used to make a vegan dandelion honey.
After collecting the roots and leaves, chop them up and let them air-dry over several days. Choose a warm, dry place such as a garden shed or on top of a radiator. Once thoroughly dried, store your dandelion tea in an airtight container.
Important: Picking dandelions in your own backyard is best. Avoid collecting them in areas near roads with heavy traffic or where they may have been sprayed with pesticides.
Health Benefits
Dandelions are rich in vitamins and minerals including calcium, iron, manganese, vitamin A, C and K. Although the health benefits of dandelions have not been conclusively proven, dandelions are said to:
- provide antioxidants like beta-carotene and polyphenols
- be a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure
- aid digestion through the probiotics they contain
- help reduce the risk of certain cancers
- keep skin healthy
- protect eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration
Dandelion tea is not your favorite? Then try one of these natural tea recipes:
- Ginger and Garlic Tea: Benefits and Recipe
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- Sage Tea Benefits – and How to Make Sage Tea
- Cinnamon Tea: 4 Health Benefits and How to Make Your Own
- Wormwood Tea: Benefits, Dosage, and Brewing Method
- Rose Hip Tea: Benefits and Preparation
This article has been translated from German by Karen Stankiewicz. You can find the original here: Löwenzahntee: Wirkung und Rezept des unterschätzen Heilkrauts
Important Information regarding Health-related Topics.
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