DR. WALKER

Dandelion Tea

What is dandelion tea?

To the undiscerning, dandelion is just a persistently-annoying perky weed. However, it is fair to say that the plant makes up for this in the numerous ways it improves the health and wellbeing of our bodies. This intrusive weed, over the years, has spared no parts as it has continually been steeped and dipped in herbal teas. The leaves, flowers and roots have all got something to offer to our good health. Ancient medicine believed it, and now, modern research proves it that its phytochemicals, including sesquiterpene lactones, phenylpropanoids and triterpene saponins are wonder workers for our bodies. The leaves and flowers are normally dried, while the roots are roasted before being steeped for tea.

What is dandelion tea useful for?

Dandelion leaves are approved for clinical use as a diuretic by the German Commission E, and that makes it a key agent for treating anorexia, biliary abnormalities and dyspepsia.¹ A study involving 40 women in their periods, credits dandelion and other herbs with potent hormone detoxification abilities.1 Another study shows that extracts from dandelion improves liver function, evident in the significant decrease in the marker enzyme that points to liver toxicity. Investigations on dandelion flower and leaves show that bioactive compounds in them such as luteolin, prevents RNA from ROS-induced damage. Other studies on the antioxidant activity of dandelion pronounce it as an undaunted protector of nerve cells and other delicate tissues from oxidative damage. Dandelion extract is shown, in a study, to cause the regression of fibrosis and enhance regenerative capabilities of the liver.²

Health benefits

• Prevents hepatitis B
• Prevents liver cancer
• Inhibits replication of HIV in humans
• Improves conditions of colitis and IBS
• Improves digestion
• Anti-inflammatory
• Has prebiotic activity

Nutrition

About 8 ounces of dandelion will contain the following:³

• Calories – 25
• Carbohydrates – 0.18oz
• Fiber – 0.06oz
• Fat – 0.01oz
• Protein – 0.05oz

The above composition is with respect to dandelion leaves, and hence, the roots or other parts may have slightly different amounts. However, with shrubs like these, what is of interest are their micronutrient and bioactive compound content and dandelion has them aplenty in every part. Dandelion is rich in Potassium, Zinc, Calcium, Magnesium and Beta-carotene. Important bioactive compounds in dandelion include sesquiterpene lactones, taraxasterol, taraxerol and complex carbohydrates.

Toxicity

The recommended amounts of consumption of whole dandelion leaves or root is 10g in divided amounts.1 No real adverse effects have been seen in humans who go beyond the 10g-a-day limit. However, though rarely, few people may be allergic to dandelion and so should approach it with caution. Also due to the hosts of minerals present in dandelion, large consumptions may inhibit the absorption of antibiotics. Therefore, people with gastro infections and pregnant women, who need to be on antibiotics may leave out dandelion for a minute.

References