Dandelion tea is a calorie-free drink that’s packed with vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants and prebiotics. It’s also known for its gut health and inflammation-reducing benefits.
Several antioxidants and other components in dandelion tea have anti-inflammatory properties. Taraxasterol, in particular, in dandelion tea, is a compound that reduces inflammation.
Dandelion also contains phenolic acids that prevent the overproduction of inflammatory cytokines (proteins that can increase inflammation).
These antioxidant compounds help prevent inflammation by neutralizing harmful free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress. This is associated with chronic health conditions like heart disease, infections, and cancer.
Dandelion root tea contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that nourishes the beneficial bacteria in your gut. This can help your digestive system by providing relief from constipation. Polyphenols in dandelion release short-chain fatty acids that help reduce inflammation in your gut lining, and dandelion root may help protect your liver.
Dandelion has also traditionally been used to increase appetite and relieve gas and gallstones.
Dandelion tea contains vitamins A, C, E, K, and B. Dandelion leaves are also a great source of calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, manganese, and iron.
Organic dandelion root tea—made with just organic dandelion root steeped in water—is caffeine free and will provide you with the following:
- Calories: 0
- Fat: 0 grams (g)
- Sodium: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
Dandelion tea is generally safe in moderate amounts. However, it can still affect digestion by causing diarrhea, heartburn, and stomach discomfort in some people.
Having an allergy to plants like ragweed, chrysanthemums, and marigolds may increase your risk of an allergic reaction to dandelion tea. In rare cases, consuming dandelion tea can lead to anaphylaxis if you have an allergy.
Dandelion supplements may have a different nutritional profile than dandelion tea. Supplements are not regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the same standards as food and medicines. Consult a healthcare provider before consuming any supplements that include dandelion.
Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before ingesting high amounts of dandelion tea.
Dandelion tea may also potentially interact with certain anticoagulants, diabetic drugs, and antibiotics.
Dandelion root is commonly packaged as an herb for tea. It has a bitter, smoky flavor similar to chicory coffee. If you enjoy the taste of coffee but not caffeine, you can enjoy dandelion tea in the morning in place of coffee.
Here’s how to make your own dandelion tea:
- Thoroughly rinse off and dry the dandelion root.
- Bake the dandelion root at 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65.6 degrees Celsius) for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the root to cool down.
- Grind dandelion root into a cup of boiled water.
- Steep dandelion root tea in water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain and enjoy.
Be careful when making your own dandelion tea. Dandelions may be sprayed with pesticides that can be dangerous when ingested. Try to purchase organic dandelion root if you can.
