Benefits Of Raw Dandelion Root Tea

Taraxacum officinale, commonly referred to as dandelion, is a flower that has been used for centuries by Native American and Arabic medicine practitioners to strengthen the body and treat a variety of health conditions. The suggested therapeutic dose for making the tea is 1 tbsp. of cut roots, per 5 oz. of water. Although dandelion root is generally considered safe, it can interact with medications, and you should consult with your health care practitioner before drinking the tea regularly.

Nutritional Benefits

Phytochemcials are chemicals in plants that have been found to have a protective effect against diseases in humans. According to "Nursing Herbal Medicine Handbook," dandelion root contains numerous phytochecmicals including sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, phenolic acids, phytosterols and flavonoids. It also contains fatty acids, inulin, potassium and magnesium. The roots are also rich in vitamins A, C and D.

Traditional Benefits

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, dandelion has been used for many centuries for the treatment of liver diseases, kidney diseases, spleen problems, digestive problems, swelling and skin conditions. Chinese medicinal practitioners also use it to treat appendicitis and breast problems such as inflammation or lack of milk flow. There is currently no compelling scientific evidence to support its use as a treatment for any medical condition.

Liver, Kidney and Gallbladder Health

In North America today, dandelion root tea is primarily used as a liver, kidney and gallbladder tonic, and it is thought to both cleanse and enhance the function of the three organs. "Nursing Herbal Medicine Handbook" says that it is helpful to the gallbladder because it contains a bitter enzyme called taraxalisin that stimulates the gallbladder to release bile. Herbal Supplements Guide says that migraines can be caused by a toxic liver, and due to dandelion root's liver cleansing properties, it may also help to reduce migraine frequency and severity.

Gastrointestinal Health

The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that dandelion root tea may promote gastrointestinal health, enhance digestion, stimulate the appetite and treat digestive problems such as heartburn and stomach upset. The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but research suggests that dandelion root may improve the health and function of healthy bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract that are required for gastrointestinal health. Due to certain phytochecmicals found in dandelion, as well as the high potassium content, dandelion root is also an effective diuretic.

Precautions

All parts of the dandelion, including the roots, are generally considered safe, and only rare mild side effects such as diarrhea and upset stomach have been reported from its use. If, however, you have an allergy to ragweed or another related plant species or an infected gallbladder, you should not drink dandelion root tea.