Dandelions are seen by many as a weed, but others see them as a wonder of nature, and how right they are. Dandelions have many health benefits. Here are just a few of them.
Dandelion tea can be made from the roots and leaves of the herb. If you want to enhance the flavour of your herbal tea, you can also add a few dandelion flowers to your tea.
Dandelion leaf tea has excellent diuretic properties. And tea made from the root of the herb stimulates the appetite and relieves liver and gallbladder problems.
Dandelion tea can be very useful if you have digestive problems. It has been used for centuries to treat heartburn and indigestion, but it can also help relieve constipation by stimulating bowel movements. It also plays a prominent role in maintaining proper liver function. This tea can also be called a liver tonic, as it helps detoxify the liver and improves the flow of bile.
Dandelion tea can also be useful in reducing water retention, as it has a diuretic effect, which can significantly reduce bloating. This herbal tea can also improve gallbladder function and even reduce the risk of gallstones by flushing excess salt, water and toxins from the body.
The fresh, tender leaves of dandelion are best collected in the spring, while the roots are best collected in the autumn. Research shows that dandelion root contains water-soluble polysaccharides, which play a major role in protecting the liver from damage.
According to the researchers, dandelion root can help normalise blood sugar levels and lower LDL cholesterol levels, making it very useful for people with type 2 diabetes.
Dandelion is also actively involved in improving heart health, as its leaves are a rich source of potassium, an essential mineral for the heart, helping to regulate not only heart rate but also blood pressure.
Regular consumption also minimises the risk of obesity. It is involved in weight loss by inhibiting pancreatic lipase activity.
Dandelion and chicory can also be made into a great tea with calming effects. It is a rich-tasting tea full of valuable nutrients.
Soothing dandelion tea with chicory
Ingredients:
- ½ cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of dandelion root tea
- 1 teaspoon of chicory root
- 2 grains black pepper
- 2 seeds cardamom
- 1 clove
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ½ cup skimmed milk
- honey to taste
Preparation:
Boil the water, then add the dandelion, chicory and spices. Then lower the temperature under the pan and add the milk. Boil for a further 5 minutes, then remove from the heat, strain and add the honey.