Most people don’t realize that the yellow weeds that pop up every spring are actually plants that have a number of powerful health benefits. Actually, we have been using dandelions in food for thousands of years, including dandelion tea.
Dandelion root is used in the treatment of muscle aches, loss of appetite, upset stomach, intestinal gas, gallstones, joint pain, eczema and bruises. It also increases urine production and serves as a laxative to increase bowel movements. It’s used as a skin toner, blood tonic and digestive tonic.
Meanwhile, dandelion greens can be chopped up and used as a garnish or an addition to a sauce, or they can be eaten raw or cooked to minimize their somewhat bitter flavor.
You can also use the dandelion root, stems and flowers to make a delicious and super-healthy dandelion tea. It’s considered one of the top nutrient-rich drinks. Either way, you reap the benefits of this unexpected nutritional plant.
How to Make Dandelion Tea
One of the best ways to experience all of the the health benefits of dandelion tea is by making your own at home.
You can make tea with the dandelion roots or flowers. It’s 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.
Additionally, try roasting the root of your dandelion plant to make a coffee-like beverage. Here’s how it’s 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.
How do you pick dandelion roots or flowers for tea? Make sure to avoid areas where weed-killer may have been sprayed. You don’t want to consume the nasty chemicals found in weed-killer!
Try to pick from an area that’s free from pollution, too. You want to look for the younger and tender plants because they’re less bitter.
You can also find bunches of dandelion plants in your local health store. If you plan on using the roots, dig down deep, and pull up the entire mass — sometimes it’s attached to several stems. Clean it with water until all of the dirt is removed.
Once you’re ready to eat your dandelions, make sure to wash them thoroughly. They can be stored in the refrigerator for a week — sometimes wrapping the greens in a damp paper towel keeps them fresh longer.
You can use the raw root to make dandelion root tea or use roasted dandelion root to make coffee. Dandelion greens can be sautéed, boiled and eaten raw.