Remember the joy dandelions brought as a kid, when you could blow on one and make a wish as the wispy seeds floated gently away on the wind? Well, get ready for dandelions to bring back that same old joy in a new, more grown-up way.
That’s right, we’re talking about dandelion root tea, made from the very same weed we loved growing up. So, what exactly is dandelion root tea, what are its benefits, and is it really a thing?
It is most definitely a thing, and to learn more about your other questions, read on to find out!
What is Dandelion Root?
Believe it or not, the root of this common garden weed has actually been used in medicine for centuries. The dandelion root extract is filled with fiber, antioxidants, and bioactive plant compounds that can provide several health benefits.
What Are the Benefits of Dandelion Root Tea?
Dandelion root can be dried to make a revitalizing tea that can provide a number of wellness benefits. The roots of dandelion plants are roasted to a rich brown hue. Then, after steeping in hot water, it can be enjoyed as a coffee substitute.
Supports Healthy Blood Pressure
Dandelion root has traditionally been thought of as a diuretic, meaning it can help flush fluids out of the body, which may help lower blood pressure.
The dandelion root’s antioxidant properties can also help maintain healthy blood pressure by limiting the effects of oxidative stress.
Nourishes The Skin
Along with maintaining blood pressure levels, the dandelion’s antioxidants can help limit the physical effects of free radicals within the body.
Free radicals are unstable atoms in the body that can increase when we are exposed to pollutants. Free radicals are capable of destroying healthy skin cells, leading to blemishes and wrinkles.
Luckily, antioxidants like those found in the dandelion can protect skin cells by stabilizing free radicals without becoming unstable themselves, ultimately keeping physical signs of aging at bay.
The anti-swelling properties of polyphenols and vitamin C found in the dandelion root can also help clear the pores and reduce skin irritation. Not to mention, they nourish the body from the inside out.
Supports Healthy Blood Sugar Levels
Dandelion root can help regulate and lower blood sugar by stimulating insulin production, the hormone responsible for managing blood sugar levels.
The chicoric and chlorogenic acid in the dandelion root can work within the body’s endocrine system to help improve insulin sensitivity and increase glucose (sugar) absorption in the muscles, which can be particularly beneficial for people with diabetes.
Maintains Liver Health
Dandelion root has long been used for its role in liver health.
Studies suggest that dandelion tea can help support liver function. This is likely due partly to the bioactive compound within the root’s ability to heighten the bile flow. While more research is needed, early evidence suggests that this can help support liver function by helping remove toxins from the body.
Supports Energy
Once absorbed into the body, the polyphenols, nutrients, and beta-carotene compounds within the dandelion root can help naturally stimulate the brain, providing a restorative and revitalizing energy boost.
This is why some people prefer using dandelion root tea as a caffeine-free coffee substitute.
Antioxidant Boost
Antioxidants are powerful molecules that can prevent cell damage caused by free radicals, combat oxidative stress that can harm the heart over time, reduce signs of aging in the skin, and help boost the immune system.
Dandelion root is home to polyphenols and a high concentration of beta carotene, which can serve as healing antioxidants within the body.
May Reduce Swelling
Chronic swelling within the body can cause discomfort in a number of ways, such as sore joints, cramping, or bloating.
Since antioxidants have anti-swelling properties, the polyphenols in the dandelion root can work within the endocrine system to help ease discomfort by reducing swelling wherever it appears.
Dandelion root tea can further help reduce bloating both by responding to any swelling in the digestive tract and helping remove fluids from the body.
Supports Healthy Cholesterol Levels
A number of animal studies suggest that the compounds in the dandelion extracts can help reduce triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels. Dandelion root tea may also support heart health by helping maintain healthy cholesterol levels and preventing oxidative stress.
How Much Dandelion Root Tea Is Safe To Drink?
While there is no standard dose for dandelion root, current research suggests that it is safe to use anywhere between two to eight grams of fresh dandelion root daily, or 250 to 1,000 milligrams of dried root powder no more than four times a day.
How Often Should I Drink Dandelion Root Tea?
Dandelion root tea is safe to drink daily. You can steep one to two teaspoons of dandelion root per cup and enjoy one to two cups per day.
How Long Will It Take for Me To See Results?
Once absorbed into the body, the bioactive compounds and minerals in the dandelion leaf extract will get to work soothing the stomach and helping flush toxins out of the body. Effects will usually kick in within an hour or two of drinking as the compounds move through the digestive tract.
What Are the Side Effects of Dandelion Root Tea?
Dandelion root is considered extremely safe for most people. However, there is a risk of allergic reactions, especially in those who are allergic to similar plants such as ragweed.
Dandelions may also interact with certain medications, such as blood sugar meds or certain antibiotics. If you are taking any other medication, it is best to check in with your doctor before using dandelion root.
Precautions To Consider
While you can make your own dandelion root tea, be aware of any pesticides or herbicides that may be used before trying to consume any roots pulled straight from the ground! You can also use dried dandelion roots made ready for consumption.
The Bottom Line
Dandelion roots contain a wealth of cleansing and restorative compounds and nutrients. It’s why we here at the Apothecary use it in our detoxing Cleanse CBD supplement and what makes a morning cup of dandelion root tea so delightful.
Interested in exploring other beneficial botanicals as well? Check out our wide collection of botanical CBD teas, oils, and supplements at The Brothers Apothecary Shop!
Sources
Antioxidant vitamins and blood pressure | Current Hypertension Reports
Jesse Richardson is the co-founder of The Brothers Apothecary. He's an avid tea drinker and the primary creator behind The Brothers' products. An undergraduate of UCLA for Political Science, Jesse currently studies Medicinal Plants at Cornell University and The International School of Herbal Arts & Sciences.
