The dandelion is a native plant that lives in temperate regions. Its name derives from two French words that describe a lion's teeth, a reference to its jagged leaves. All parts are edible and may be dried for brewing tea. Dandelion is a component of many traditional medicines, including those of Arabia, India and China. It is generally safe, but some people may be allergic or may experience mild stomach upset. Consult a doctor before drinking dandelion tea for medicinal use.
Liver Tonic
Dandelion tea is a traditional liver tonic and is used to treat liver diseases. In China, dandelion is used for several disorders, including hepatitis B. In a Chinese research study, dandelion lowered levels of damaging liver enzymes in hepatitis B patients. Dandelion is also used for liver problems in Germany where Commission E, similar to the USDA, approves it for this use. The tea may be drunk several times daily but tends to be bitter and may require sweetening.
Diuretic
Dandelion tea is also a gentle diuretic and may benefit people with high blood pressure, according to the University of Maryland Alternative Medicine Center website. It causes excretion of salts and water by the kidneys. Because it contains potassium, using dandelion for this purpose is unlikely to cause potassium deficiency, a potential problem with use of other diuretics.
Digestive Tonic
Dandelion tea may improve an upset stomach, it may relieve intestinal gas or constipation, and it may also help stimulate the appetite. This may be due to a positive effect of dandelion on good bacteria that live in the digestive tract, according the University of Maryland Alternative Medicine Center. The website indicates that dandelion may interact with some medications and suggests that anyone considering its use should first consult a physician.
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