Dandelion is a tiny yet powerful plant! We often see Dandelion as a garden weed but did you know it has been a traditional medicine for centuries?! Jam packed with nutrients and active compound it has been used to help treat aliments of diabetes, gall bladder issues, liver issues, and more!
Dandelion contains many nutrients such as:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- B Vitamins
- Vitamin D
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Copper
- Iron
- Manganese
- Zinc
- Phosphorous
- Fiber (Inulin)
With its great nutrient profile and active compounds it has many studied benefits:
- Protect Cells
- Reduce inflammation
- Lower Cholesterol
- Plus more!! (1, 2, 3)
Many use it today for its aid in digestion and diuretic effects.
How to Use
You can eat the plant as is, most consume dandelion greens, while other use it in capsules, tinctures, or teas. There are a wide array of different recipes and ways to use dandelion but one of my favorite’s Dandelion Coffee. It is a great caffeine-free way to kick start the day!
Dandelion Coffee:
- 1 Cup of Milk or your choice (my favorite is almond)
- 1-2 TBSP ground Dandelion Root
- 1 TBSP Maple Syrup (or your favorite natural sweetener)
- 1 tsp Ceylon Cinnamon (you can also use a cinnamon stick)
- A pinch of Ground Nutmeg
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Place ingredients in a pot and heat on medium.
- Let the dandelion root steep for 15 mins
- Strain to remove any small root parts
- Top with some extra cinnamon or nutmeg if you would like!
Precautions:
Dandelion is considered safe to eat as a good but may have interactions with drugs that suppress the immune response, certain antibiotics, and blood clotting pharmaceuticals.