How to Make Dandelion Root Tea From Fresh Dandelion

Dandelion is undoubtedly the scourge of groomed lawn aficionados. Seen as a weed by many people, the much-maligned dandelion has suffered all manner of chemicals, homemade weed killer, and numerous gadgets to rid the perfectly groomed lawns of its presence.

When I was growing up the older people paid us kids to pick dandelion for them. Since there were millions of dandelions in the surrounding fields we had a summer full of employment.

Every part of the dandelion was used. The picked and cleaned dandelion were made into teas, jellies, and syrups. 

The roots were dried, roasted, and used for tea or ground into a powder for herbal remedies.  

The dandelion leaves were parboiled and frozen. Dandelion greens were a big part of any special dinner. The leaves were also used to make dandelion leaf tea.

Today the lowly dandelion is enjoying a comeback. People seek it out for its many purported health benefits and antioxidant properties. Making an herbal tea is one of the most popular ways of enjoying the benefits of the dandelion plant.

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Foraging Dandelions

The best time to forage dandelions (taraxacum officinale) is during their peak season, which varies depending on your location but is generally from early spring to summer. 

Look for dandelions when they are in full bloom, with vibrant yellow flowers and healthy green leaves.

Dandelion flowers have a unique appearance, with a round yellow head composed of numerous small petals and a long, hollow stem. The leaves are deeply toothed and form a basal rosette close to the ground.

Be cautious of similar-looking plants, which may resemble dandelions but have noticeable differences upon closer inspection.

If possible, choose dandelions from areas that are free from pesticides and other contaminants.

Remember to always respect local regulations regarding foraging and seek permission if you plan to harvest from private properties or protected areas.

If you don’t want to forage your own dandelions you can purchase frozen dandelions, dried or powdered dandelions, and dandelion tea bags to make your dandelion tea.

Harvesting and Preparing Dandelions

Using a garden fork, a small shovel, or even a sharp knife, dig an inch or two away from the dandelion. Dig at an angle away from the plant so that you don’t damage the roots. 

Dig all of the way around the root of the plant, loosening the soil as you go. Lift the entire dandelion out of the ground and shake off any excess dirt. 

Cut the leaves and flower heads and place them in a separate bowl to be cleaned. Rinse the roots under running water, using a vegetable brush to get all of the soil off.

The fresh roots can be used to make dandelion tea right away or you can dry them for later use. 

Cleaning and preparing dandelion flowers and leaves:

Fill a bowl or basin with cool water and gently place the dandelion flowers, leaves, and stems into the water. Swirl them around to remove any dirt, insects, or debris.

Drain the water and repeat the process if necessary until the dandelions are clean. Remove any damaged or wilted parts.

Drying dandelion flowers, leaves, and roots:

Lay the cleaned dandelions on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to absorb excess moisture. If you’re planning to use the dandelions immediately, pat them dry gently.

For drying purposes, you have a few options:

      a. Air-drying: Place the dandelion parts in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Ensure they are spread out in a single layer and have good airflow around them. This process may take several days to a week, depending on the humidity levels in your environment.

      b. Oven-drying: Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature. Arrange the dandelions on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the oven with the door slightly ajar. Check regularly to prevent overheating. Drying time can vary but typically takes a few hours.

      c. Dehydrator: If you have a food dehydrator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying herbs or flowers. Set the dehydrator to the appropriate temperature and drying time for herbs.

Once the dandelion flowers, leaves, and roots are fully dried, they are ready for brewing dandelion tea. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to make tea.

Dandelion Tea Recipe

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 Brewing dandelion root tea:

     1. Cut the dandelion root into small pieces

     2. In a saucepan, add about 1 tablespoon of dried dandelion root pieces per cup of water.

     3. Pour hot water over the roots and let them simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes.

     4. Remove from heat and cover the pan, allowing the roots to steep for an additional 5 minutes.

     5. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh strainer or a tea infuser.

     6. Optionally, add natural sweeteners like honey or stevia to taste.

Brewing dandelion flower tea:

      1. In a teapot or a cup, place 1/4 cup of fresh or dried dandelion flowers.

      2. Pour boiling water over the flowers and let them steep for about 5-10 minutes.

      3. Strain the tea using a fine mesh strainer or a tea infuser.

      4. Enhance the flavor by adding a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of honey, if desired.

Brewing dandelion leaf tea:

      1. In a saucepan, add about 1/4 cup of chopped dandelion leaves per cup of water.

      2. Pour boiling water over the leaves and let them simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes.

      3. Remove from heat and cover the pan, allowing the leaves to steep for an additional 5 minutes.

      4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh strainer or a tea infuser.

      5. Customize the taste by adding a splash of lemon juice or a touch of sweetener, if desired.

Remember to adjust the quantities of dandelion parts based on personal preferences and desired strength of the tea. Experiment with different combinations of dandelion parts to discover your favorite cup of tea. For more information about brewing methods see my post on how to properly brew a pot of tea.

Health Benefits of Dandelion Tea

Historical uses and traditional medicine:

Dandelion has a rich history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Chinese medicine and Native American herbalism. It has been used to support various ailments, such as liver disorders, digestive issues, skin conditions, and urinary problems.

Dandelions are rich in vitamins A, K, and vitamin C as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols, which help protect the body against oxidative stress. 

There have been numerous scientific studies pointing to the health benefits of dandelion. The whole plant provides many health benefits.

Liver support and detoxification:

Dandelion has a long history of traditional use as a liver tonic. Research suggests that dandelion may support liver function by promoting the production of bile, which aids in digestion and the elimination of toxins from the body. 

Digestive health:

Dandelion tea has been traditionally used as a digestive aid. It may help stimulate appetite, improve digestion, and relieve symptoms such as bloating and constipation.

Anti-inflammatory properties:

Dandelion contains compounds that possess anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have shown that dandelion extracts can inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules in the body, potentially benefiting conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. 

Potential diuretic effect:

Dandelion has been traditionally used as a natural diuretic, promoting urine production and helping to flush out excess fluids from the body. This diuretic effect may be attributed to certain compounds in dandelion, such as potassium and certain flavonoids.

Blood Sugar Control:

In theory, dandelion can lower blood sugar levels but more research needs to be done in this area.

Antioxidant activity:

Dandelion contains antioxidants that help protect the body against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants may contribute to overall health and well-being, supporting the immune system and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. 

It’s important to note that while dandelion tea has a long history of traditional use and some scientific evidence supporting its health benefits, further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic applications. 

As with any herbal remedy, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating dandelion tea into your health routine, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.

Precautions and Considerations

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​While there are no real side effects from consuming dandelion, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Allergies and sensitivities:

Some individuals may be allergic to dandelions or other plants in the daisy family, which includes daisies, ragweed, and chrysanthemums. 

If you have known allergies to these plants, exercise caution when consuming or handling dandelions, as it may lead to allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or respiratory symptoms.

Medication interactions:

Dandelion tea may interact with certain medications, such as diuretics, anticoagulants (blood thinners), and medications metabolized by the liver. 

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications, to ensure there are no potential interactions.

Quality and sourcing:

When foraging for dandelions, it’s crucial to ensure they are from areas free of pesticides, herbicides, or other contaminants. If purchasing dried dandelion parts, opt for reputable sources that offer organic or wildcrafted options to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful substances.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

Limited research exists on the safety of dandelion tea during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals to consult their healthcare provider before consuming dandelion tea to ensure its safety for their specific situation.

Personal tolerance and dosage:

While dandelion tea is generally considered safe for most individuals, everyone’s tolerance and sensitivity may vary. Start with small amounts of dandelion tea and observe how your body reacts before gradually increasing the dosage.

Remember, the information provided here is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions regarding dandelion tea and its suitability for your individual circumstances, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.