More than just a bright weed that can overtake any garden or pop up from cracks in the concrete, the dandelion is a powerful plant used for many herbal remedies. Utilizing the dandelion for detox is a popular approach, but just how effective is this bitter plant?
What is Dandelion
Dandelions are chock full of nutrients. The greens of this plant contain:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B
- Vitamin C
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Omega Fatty Acid
- Potassium
- Phytochemicals
- Iron
- Zinc
It’s also full of antioxidants and anticoagulants. That’s right, this one little “weed” contains as many nutrients as multivitamins and mineral supplements. Native Americans, ancient Chinese herbalists, and even early Europeans alike all used dandelion for hundreds of years to treat stomach ailments such as diarrhea and even serious issues like appendicitis
Dandelion is known to help digestion as well as support the liver and kidneys.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, just one cup of dandelion contains, of your daily value: 32% vitamin C, 112% of vitamin A, and a whopping 535% of vitamin k. All of these vitamins are crucial to a healthy immune system.
How Does Dandelion Help Detox
Ok we get it, the dandelion is healthy. But what does the dandelion do for detox?
First off, it acts as a diuretic. Feeling bloated? Dandelion tea can help reduce bloating and increased urination. Additionally, dandelion helps regulate the hormones that promote toxin removal through bile, sweat, and urine. Because of this, dandelion has often been called the “liver tonic”.
And finally, dandelion can help soothe your digestive system. This is extremely helpful during a heavy detoxification process which can cause an upset stomach.
How Much Dandelion to Detox
Online recommendations for the dandelion detox can vary. Due to the fact that it is so full of nutrients and has very little negative side effects, doctors recommend making dandelion a part of your regular health routine. However because of its diuretic effects it isn’t recommended to do a full dandelion detox for more than 7 to 10 days.
Dandelion Detox Tea Recipe
What you’ll need:
- 60 oz water
- 1 Tbsp pure cranberry juice (note – do not use a sugary mix or cranberry cocktail juice as they are very high in sugar)
- 1 dandelion tea bag of your choice
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Directions:
- Brew the dandelion tea as directed
- Set tea aside to cool
- Combine all ingredients
- Drink entire mixture throughout the day
- Recommended to drink for 5 to 7 days (prepare fresh batch each morning)
Potential Dandelion Side Effects
Luckily, dandelion with all its nutrients and benefits is also one of the less problematic herbs.
Those with allergies to weeds, daisies, ragweed, and other grasses may also be allergic to dandelion. If you have these other allergies, consult your doctor before beginning a dandelion detox regiment.
Additionally, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also speak to their doctors before consuming herbal remedies. Dandelion may decrease the efficacy of antibiotics so save the detox for when you are not taking such medications.
Also, anyone with liver issues or who is taking lithium should be aware dandelion can interact negatively. Always consult your primary care physician before starting a dandelion detox.