Many adults still know the dandelion as a dandelion from their childhood days. The diverse health-promoting effects of dandelion are not yet well known. Prepared as a tea, the plant is becoming increasingly popular. FITBOOK reveals which special active ingredients are contained in dandelion tea and how it is prepared.
Dandelion tea is, unsurprisingly, made from dandelion. This is also known under the technical term Taraxacum ruderalia and belongs to the daisy family. Dandelion can reach a height of up to 30 cm and goes through different stages, ranging from a knotted bud to the rich yellow flower to the delicate dandelion. The main flowering time of the plant in Europe is from April to May and also corresponds to the period in which dandelion should ideally be harvested. During this period, dandelion is particularly aromatic, but also intensely colored, which is reflected in the golden hue of the infusion.
What ailments can dandelion tea help with?
Dandelion tea is recommended in phytotherapy and also in traditional Chinese medicine, especially for upsets in the gastrointestinal tract and bladder and kidney problems. It is said to have a calming, antispasmodic and detoxifying effect. Dandelion tea can support digestion, relieve an uncomfortable feeling of fullness and flatulence. It also has a purifying and draining effect due to its digestive and diuretic properties. Dandelion tea is therefore particularly popular during fasting and detoxification cures to support the detoxification process.
What active ingredients are behind it?
Dandelion tea is rich in flavonoids and coumarins. These sterols cause a biochemical binding of the water and should ensure better blood circulation. Minerals such as potassium and the bitter substances eudesmanolide and tetrahydroiridentin B of the flowers catalyze the release of digestive hormones. In addition, the root of the dandelion contains numerous complex carbohydrates, but also insulin, which is why the tea is also recommended for diabetics.
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What are the effects of dandelion tea on health and what do studies say?
Since dandelion is also a widespread plant in Europe, its biochemical composition has now been extensively researched. So does the digestive effect of the plant. According to studies, the prebiotic dietary fiber inulin contained in the dandelion root promotes digestion, relieves constipation and contributes to a healthy intestinal flora. In addition to the digestive and diuretic effect, the liver should also benefit from dandelion tea. Study results from a 2017 investigation suggest that the polysaccharides contained in dandelion may actually support liver function in its detoxification.1,2,3
You can read from our colleagues at myHOMEBOOK how you can use dandelions in addition to tea.
Are there any possible side effects or risks?
In principle, the consumption of dandelion is considered very safe. In rare cases, allergic reactions can occur. Likewise, dandelion can interact with some prescription medications. People who take prescription drugs should therefore discuss with their doctor beforehand how safe it is to consume dandelion tea.
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Where do you get dandelion tea and how is it prepared?
Dandelion tea is easily available in many well-stocked supermarkets, but also online. Since it has its strongest aroma during its flowering period and as soon as possible after harvesting, it is advisable to buy seasonally and enjoy fresh dandelion tea especially during the warm months.
For one liter of the delicious hot drink, a teaspoon of tea mixture or almost five grams of fresh dandelion are boiled with hot water, left to steep for ten minutes and then poured through a sieve. Hot or cold in the form of iced tea, dandelion tea is a healthy and tasty alternative to classic herbal teas.
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How does dandelion tea taste?
Dandelion tea tastes best when it is made from freshly harvested flowers. Since these have the most intense aroma shortly after picking, it is advisable to pay attention to the harvest date when purchasing. As is usual for herbal teas, dandelion tea has a bitter basic taste. What is particularly characteristic of it, however, is its spicy note, which also makes dandelion a popular spice in home-style cooking and goes well with potato and meat dishes.