Dandelion is a common plant native to Greece that is closely related to the sunflower. Harvested worldwide, the herb's green, oblong leaves have been used medicinally and nutritionally for centuries and are chiefly used to cleanse the liver, blood and digestive systems, according to AltMD.com. Dandelion leaf tea contains high levels of vitamin A and smaller amounts of vitamins C, D, B and several trace minerals. The tea is considered the herb's most effective medicinal form because fresh leaves may contain the most active constituents.
Digestive Disorders
Dandelion leaf tea has been used to treat digestive disorders including indigestion and heartburn, as well as to remove water from the body as a diuretic, according to Acupuncture Today. Additionally, the bitter compounds in the leaves help stimulate digestion and have a mild laxative effect that relieves constipation. According to traditional use, dandelion leaf tea provides a holistic diuretic action because any potassium lost due to the herb's diuretic effect on the kidneys will be replaced by the herb's high mineral content.
Liver Treatment
Traditionally, dandelion leaf tea is known as an effective treatment for liver disease and may be useful even in advanced cases of cirrhosis. Additionally, the herbal treatment is considered useful in cases of hepatitis. The bitter compounds in the dandelion leaves called taraxacin are the chief constituents responsible for dandelion's liver treatment abilities. These compounds also increase bile flow from the liver, which makes the herb a useful tonic for a sluggish liver function related to alcohol abuse or poor diet, according to HolisticOnline.com.
Recommended Dosage
For liver and digestive treatments, the recommended dose of dandelion leaf tea is 3 to 5g of dandelion leaves steeped in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes taken three times per day. As a diuretic, the recommended dose is 4 to 10g of dried leaves made as a tea, or 1 to 2 tsp. of fresh dandelion leaf juice combined with warm milk taken three times per day, according to Acupuncture Today. Dried dandelion leaves may be less effective than the fresh leaves. Additionally, when used to treat stomach disorders, dandelion should be used cautiously, because it may cause the overproduction of digestive juices.
Member Comments