Dandelion Tea: a SoGood tea… but with a few caveats!

Recently I had a cup of dandelion tea at a friend’s house and now I am obsessed with it. I love its sweet taste and SoLove even more that it has some amazing benefits!

Dandelion has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries across many different cultures. Its roots and leaves are dried and used to make dandelion tea, which contain vitamins A, C and D, and significant amounts of zinc, iron, magnesium and potassium. Rich in vitamins and minerals, the dandelion contains more beta-carotene than carrots per serving.

It also helps alleviating symptoms of many different illnesses, including bloating, diabetes and liver dysfunction. It is high in potassium, so it replenishes lost electrolytes immediately.

There are two parts to the dandelion: the root and the leaf, and each has its own use. Both help regulate parts of the digestive system, but the root is best for liver problems while the leaf is best for ailments related to the kidneys. Its main function is as a diuretic.

When should you avoid dandelion tea?

Dandelion tea should be avoided if one has irritable conditions of the bowels or stomach (i.e. ulcers). Also, it should not be taken if you have a bile duct obstruction, and it may enhance the toxicity of the prescription drug lithium. If you're pregnant and concerned that dandelion tea could cause problems, check with your doctor. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises that antacids, blood-thinning medications, diabetes medication and anything else that is broken down in the liver may interact with dandelion tea. Taking oral preparations such as tea can cause mouth sores for anyone allergic to dandelion. A special note to people who are allergic to ragweed and related plants, like chamomile, chrysanthemums, daisies, feverfew marigold, ragweed, sunflower or yarrow: Dandelions may exacerbate your allergic reaction, so proceed with caution. Anyone allergic to iodine or latex should also avoid dandelion preparations. An allergy to dandelion, as with many other herbs, could lead to a dangerous anaphylactic reaction.

While dandelion tea has been traditionally used in alternative medicine, the National Center for Complementary & Alternative Medicine, says that dandelions leaves are also useful when consumed as salad greens and cooked greens…. Maybe I will try them next!:-)