Too many cocktails. A heavy dinner. An indulgent vacation. We’ve all experienced the puffy face and bloated belly that quickly follows. What, if anything, can be done?
Aside from downing some extra water and doing a quick workout, drinking dandelion tea may help. The natural ancient remedy is said to help detox and de-puff, and has long been rumored to be used by models before photo shoots and fashion shows. “According to some studies, it can help reduce water retention and improve digestion and liver function,” notes integrative nurse and herbalist Lynn Green. Below, a deeper look at the plant’s health properties and benefits.
The health properties of dandelion
Many of us recall the sunny dandelion flower of our childhoods, the blossoms of which changed from bright yellow to fluffy puffs come summer’s end. But dandelion—scientific name Taraxacum officinale— isn’t just for making wishes and flower crowns; the flowers, leaves, seeds, and roots of the perennial herbaceous plant are also rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants such as polyphenols and beta-carotene.
Though it’s often called a “weed,” the humble plant offers diverse health properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to support the liver, heart and even the skin. Its documented uses and properties are numerous: “These properties comprise diuretic, hepatoprotective, anti-colitis, immunoprotective, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, antiarthritic, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antioxidant and anticancer effects,” notes a comprehensive scientific review that examined all the properties of dandelion, which also include liver protective, antioxidant, and anticancer functions. “This plant represents a promising source for the prevention and treatment of health conditions. The protective action of Taraxacum officinale against hepatotoxicity, oxidative stress and cancer cell proliferation is well reported in the scientific literature,” the review went on to state.
With all this in mind, it’s no wonder that dandelion’s scientific name is derived from Greek words meaning “medicinal remedy.” Here are just a few of the plant’s properties:
- Dandelion is rich in flavonoids and potassium, which help it to fight water retention and eliminate excess fluids.
- Its leaves are also high in fiber and inulin, offering prebiotic effects that promote digestion and balance the intestinal microbiome.
- Thanks to its high antioxidant content, it combats oxidative stress.
- Possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
- Helps regulate blood sugar.
- May reduce triglyceride and bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.
- Dandelion root extract may help cell turnover in the skin, stimulate collagen production and reduce inflammation, preventing acne.
How to consume dandelion
For those who live in the suburbs or countryside, dandelion is a familiar plant. The nutrient-rich, serrated leaves are edible and can be cooked like spinach or any other leafy green or eaten raw in salads. The flowers, buds, and roots are also edible. The flavor is bitter but not unpleasant.
Fresh or dried leaves and roots can be used to prepare a herbal tea. Pre-made dandelion teas are easily available at natural food stores and sometimes called “dandelion coffee” as it makes a satisfying, caffeine-free alternative to classic coffee.
Though the tea can be purchased in sachets, you can also make it by placing 1-2 tablespoons of dried or fresh dandelion leaves/roots in a teapot. If you gather the leaves from your own yard, be sure they have not been exposed to any pesticides, fertilizers, pets, or other toxins and rinse them well.
Heat the water just to a boil and pour it into the teapot. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes and strain the liquid through a strainer into a cup. Because of the dandelion s bitter taste, you may want to sweeten it with a tiny bit of honey.
You can also purchase dandelion as a supplement in the form of tinctures, capsules, and tablets. Dandelion tincture is mainly used to purify the body, stimulate the liver, and drain excess fluids.
Dry extract tablets are usually taken once or twice a day between meals (in the morning on an empty stomach, for example) and with plenty of water, to help deflate, drain, detoxify, and ease skin disorders such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Contraindications
It’s always best to consult a medical professional before adding any supplement to your diet. Dandelion is not recommended in cases of liver disease, gallstones, gastritis, peptic ulcer, or during pregnancy and lactation.
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