Famous for littering otherwise lush grassy yards, the humble dandelion is more than just a pesky weed. Aside from gaining traction in the health world as a vitamin-rich addition to salad bowls, dandelions have been given new purpose in the form of a nourishing cup of tea.
Dandelion tea is a vitamin and mineral rich caffeine-alternative, boasting vitamins A, K, & C, zinc, iron, calcium, and magnesium along with a host of antioxidants. And because dandelion root is a good source of inulin, the tea is a delicious way to include this gut-friendly prebiotic fibre in your diet.
What is dandelion tea?
Dandelion tea is made from the roasted root of dandelion flowers, and sometimes the flowers or leaves themselves. It’s a herbal tea favourite with health goers looking to reduce their caffeine intake, popular for its uncanny coffee-like taste and multitude of health benefits.
Benefits of dandelion tea
- With its generous dose of essential vitamins and minerals, dandelion tea is one of the healthiest herbals you can sip.
- Proponents report a reduction in water retention, thanking its impressive potassium content for flushing the body of sodium. Studies have shown an increase in urination thought to be due to the consumption of dandelion, however furthers studies need to be undertaken for more conclusive findings.
- Dandelion is thought to be beneficial for gut flora thanks to its inulin content. This gut-friendly prebiotic fibre found in dandelion has been shown to promote good gut health thanks to its ability to increase two key bacteria, Lactobacillum and Bifidobacterium.
2 ways to enjoy dandelion tea
Cleansing Tea
This naturally caffeine free tea from quality tea makers, Clipper, is a delightful blend of organically grown dandelion leaf formulated to help cleanse your body and refresh your mind. Clipper teas are all natural, fair-trade, and housed in unbleached tea bags for an extra special cuppa.
Dandelion Chai
Made from roasted dandelion root and a traditional chai spice blend that includes cinnamon, star anise, cardamom and ginger, Kintra Foods’ Dandy Chai is the perfect caffeine-free tea to sip on a cold winter evening. Be sure to add a teaspoon of honey to enhance the exotic flavours in this soul satisfying tea.
You may also like: Pine Needle Tea, English Breakfast Tea
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