What Is Dandelion Root Tea Good For?

A Whole Body Tonic

• The dandelion plant is considered a whole body tonic having beneficial medical use for every system. A dandelion tea infusion is rich in potassium, good for liver function, and helps to balance sugar levels. Dandelion tea is good for women's health, the digestive system and the intestines. It also helps nails, skin, and promotes a healthy urinal tract.

Useful Plant Parts

• Herbalists encourage use of the entire plant for good health. The roots have a slightly laxative effect and can be beneficial in cases of dyspepsia and constipation. The leaves have a powerful diuretic effect, but unlike typical diuretics, dandelion does not leach potassium from your body as it has rich potassium content itself. Dandelion leaves also help lower blood pressure.

Tea Brewing Basics

• Harvest mature dandelion leaves and dry for tea preparation. Pour boiling water over 1 tsp. of dried leaves. Steep tea for 10 to 15 minutes to desired strength. For stronger tea, add more herbs instead of adding more time for steeping. Allow infusion to cool slightly, strain and add honey to sweeten. You may also use dried dandelion root to make a stronger tea.

Side Effects

• Drinking dandelion tea may cause gastric discomfort because of its hyperacidity. Do not use for prolonged periods. Some people have allergic reactions or develop a sore mouth from drinking dandelion tea. Never use dandelion root tea to treat gallstones or any gallbladder case without consulting a physician. While dandelion tea is generally considered safe, it can increase the flow of bile. Do not drink dandelion tea if you have an obstruction of the bile ducts.

Dosage and Drug Interactions

• When drinking dandelion tea made from the dried herb, it is best to drink it three times daily at 4 to 10 grams each time. Never drink dandelion root tea in conjunction with lithium use. Do not combine with ciprofloxacin, oxfloxacin or levofloxacin, as they are not compatible with dandelion root. Do not drink dandelion tea while using diuretic drugs or any antihypertensive medications.