Dandelion Root Tea

The scientific name of dandelion is Taraxacum officinale. It is normally not found in the Southern hemisphere. It usually grows in the northern temperate zones. More often than not, the plant grows in pastures, meadows, or on waste grounds. It grows in huge numbers, annoying the farmers.

Many times, it is dismissed as a weed, but there are people who value it for the health benefits its various parts have to offer, especially the roots. It is used to treat a wide range of health problems. Many of us are not aware of the culinary uses of the plant either.

This recipe requires dried dandelion leaves besides the root. If you are going to use fresh leaves, then you will have to double the amount.

Ingredients

• Water, 4 cups
• Dried Dandelion Root, 6 tbsp (at least 1 to 2 years old)
• Dried Dandelion Leaf, 6 tbsp

Method

1. Place the water in a pot and add the root to the water.

2. Let the water simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.

3. Strain the tea over the leaves.

4. Cover and let the leaves steep in water for 15 to 20 minutes.

5. Strain the tea and drink it immediately.

This tea is known as chai in the Middle East and is a spicy infusion. With this recipe, you will make the tea mixture. Use 1 tablespoon of the mixture to make 1 cup of tea.

Ingredients

• Roasted Dandelion Root, 1 cup
• Fennel Seeds, 6 tbsp
• Cloves, 40
• Cardamom, 36 green pods
• Bay Leaves, 5
• Cinnamon, 4 sticks
• Dried Ginger Root, 2 tbsp
• Black Peppercorns, 1½ tsp

Method

1. Roast the fennel seeds, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, black peppercorns, and bay leaves for about 30 seconds.

2. Then add the roasted root to it.

3. Now you can grind the mixture or use it without grinding as well.

4. In a pot, take 1 cup of water and add 1 tablespoon of the mixture and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

5. If you want you can add honey or brown sugar to sweeten the infusion.

6. Strain the tea and reheat it before you drink it.

Some people call the dandelion, "the tooth of lion" and use it as a springtime healer. Not only are its roots useful, but the other parts are also used either for food or medicinal purposes.

• The leaves and crowns are used for salads and cooked greens while the flowers are used for making wine and the juice is used against warts and blisters.
• Tea brewed with the root is a blood and kidney cleaner.
• It is also used as a tonic. The root is rich in vitamins, minerals, and micro-nutrients.
• Diuretic uses of dandelion tea are also well-known.

• It is used as a general cleansing stimulant for the liver and can also be used to treat any malfunction of the liver.
• It is also said to be beneficial for people suffering from diabetes as it contains insulin which plays an important role in controlling diabetes.
• Dandelion can also be used in the treatment of hepatitis.

• It is also said to be useful to clear obstructions of the spleen, pancreas, gallbladder, as well as the kidneys.
• Dandelion root tea is also beneficial for the stomach and intestines and also for balancing the enzymes which help in digestion, assimilation, and elimination.

• Not many people are aware of the fact that regular consumption of this tea decreases the levels of cholesterol and uric acid in the body.
• It is said to be especially beneficial for women in their menopausal phase.
• It can also be used to treat abscesses, boils, breast tumors, etc.
• It is an excellent tonic to treat anemia.

• Liver cirrhosis can also be treated with regular consumption.
• The leaves of the dandelion plant are eaten to reduce excess acidity and is effective in oxygenation, purification, and generation of blood.
• It is also used to regenerate cells.
• There are also known benefits of dandelion in treating metabolic disturbances, bone disorders, low blood pressure, etc.

Dandelion root tea is normally safe and gentle. However, some people may have an allergic reaction to it. It is important to note that this herbal tea should not be taken with any other diuretic agent. If you are on diabetes drugs, you should be careful while consuming this drink as it can intensify the blood sugar lowering effects of the drugs.

It should not be taken by a person who suffers from diarrhea. If you are new to dandelion root tea, then it is recommended you start consuming it after speaking to your physician. In case you notice any side effects, seek medical advice immediately.