Dandelion Tea

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Dandelion Tea
By Shar’ron Strasser
@themedicineshack

Typically considered a weed or nuisance plant dandelions are actually often a overlooked food source. All parts of this plant are edible – including the flowers. This plant holds many vitamins and the flowers have antioxidant properties. The greens of the dandelion plant are edible raw and cooked. The roots can be cleaned and cut to use in Stir fry’s or dry them and use them in teas. This plant contains vitamins A, B, C, K, potassium, calcium, manganese, pyridoxine (vitamin b 6), riboflavin and even magnesium.

So take a hike in the woods, get out in your own back yard enjoy nature and be on the hunt for these abundant little medicine packs that are asking you to use them.
You can try by simply picking some dandelion flowers, or perhaps you feel ready to try the whole plant. Always remember to consider the soil source, if it’s a local park there may be chemicals that where used.

To make dandelion Tea:
*Go outside and gather 1/4 cup dandelions perhaps just the leaves or flower
(feel free to harvest the leaves/roots of you would like for a stir fry or soup)
*Boil water
1 cup hot water
( do not use boiling water as it will brake down some medicines)
*Allow the tea to steep for 8-10 mins
It should be a light yellow color.
*Strain tea, pour into your favorite cup. Optional : This tea will have a bittersweet flavor, add a bit of honey to soften this taste.
*Sip. Enjoy and relax.

Some healthy benefits:
*Adds digestion- dandelion acts as a mild laxative that promotes digestion, stimulated appetite, and balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
*Dandelion increases bile production and reduces inflammation to help with gallbladder problems and blockage.
*Antioxidants- every part to the dandelion plant is rich in antioxidants that prevent free radical damage to cells and DNA, slowing down the aging process and in our cells.
*Studies show that dandelion boost our immune systems and fights off microbes and fungi.
*They also improve liver function by removing toxins and reestablishing hydration and electrolyte balance.