Dandelion coffee

Do you find yourself drinking cup after cup of coffee each day? Dandelion coffee is a great substitute that is caffeine-free, rich in the antioxidant luteolin (a flavonoid that protects our DNA from damage) and vitamins B,  A, C and D; as well as the minerals zinc, potassium and iron. And, and it has been traditionally used dandelion root for liver and gallbladder detoxification and to support kidney health, stimulate appetite and improve digestion.

Although called a coffee, dandelion coffee is an herbal tea made from the dried roots, traditionally used for its hepatic properties, and commonly has milk added to it. To make, add one tablespoon of the chopped, dried root per cup of water, add milk as desired.

Botanical name

Taraxacum officinale (radix)

Common name

Dandelion root

Botanical family

 Asteraceae (Daisy family)

Parts used

Roots, gathers whilst flowering

Uses

·         Detoxification (liver cleansing)

·         Loss of appetite

·         Constipation

·         Gallstones (helps break down fats)

·         Diabetes (promotes production of insulin from pancreas; stores glucose when there is too much glucose in the blood; makes glucose when not enough)

·         Source of antioxidants

·         Source of calcium and vitamin K (for healthy bones and teeth)

Contraindications

·         Obstructed bile ducts

·         Avoid if have a known allergy to the daisy family

Side effects None known

Interactions with other drugs

Potential to increase liver clearance time of other medications

Kind regards,

                   Penelope Espinoza Hallett, Naturopath

                   BHsc (C.M.) AdvDip. Nat/N.D, Dip. Aroma, Dip. C.H., Cert. R.M., Cert. R.M., Cert. SBM, mNHAA