Dandelion tea is rich in vitamin A, C and D. It contains high amounts of zinc, iron and magnesium. It has long been used in herbal “medicine” like many teas. It has even been linked to killing cancer cells!!
1. Improved digestion: A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2008) found that dandelion tea can help improve digestion by increasing the production of stomach acid and digestive enzymes.
2. Anti-inflammatory effects: The Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2011) reported that dandelion tea can have anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the levels of certain pro-inflammatory molecules in the body.
3. Liver health: A study published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology (2010) found that dandelion root extract has hepatoprotective effects, meaning it can help protect the liver from damage.
4. Lowering blood sugar: The Journal of Medicinal Food (2011) reported that dandelion root extract can lower blood sugar levels, making it a potential treatment option for type 2 diabetes.
5. Antioxidant properties: Dandelion tea has been found to have high levels of antioxidants, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress and the development of chronic diseases. A study published in the journal Food Chemistry (2012) found that dandelion tea had higher antioxidant activity than green tea.
6. Improved bone health: A study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2010) found that dandelion extract can help improve bone health by increasing calcium absorption and reducing bone loss.
7. Diuretic effects: Dandelion tea has natural diuretic properties, which means it can help increase urine production and promote the elimination of excess fluid from the body. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2009) found that dandelion extract can increase urine output in humans.
8. Anti-cancer effects: A study published in the International Journal of Oncology (2008) found that dandelion root extract can have anti-cancer effects by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells.
9. Immune system support: Dandelion tea can help support the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells and improving overall immune function. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food (2012) found that dandelion extract can stimulate the immune system in mice.
Note: “Before you begin to use dandelion tea medicinally, you may want to discuss it with your doctor – especially if you’re pregnant or have an irritable bowel,” warns Dr. Manglani.
“Personally I have it mixed with other herbal teas to take some bitterness away but also because it’s good to mix teas they all have heal benefits so why not”