Dandelion coffee is a unique drink that continues to gain popularity, not only for its unusual flavor but also for its potential health benefits!
Dandelion Coffee
Dandelion coffee is a coffee-flavored beverage that is derived from dandelion roots. Despite the name, this drink is a coffee in name only and is completely caffeine-free. The dandelion roots are roasted and sometimes made into powder or smaller granule pieces for ease of consumption.
Dandelion coffee is slightly sweeter and less bitter than regular coffee, according to a book on dandelion medicine published by Brigitte Mars. It is sometimes blended with other plants, such as sugar beet or barley rye, which can provide interestingly flavored alternatives to your standard cup of dandelion coffee. It is a good source of nutrients and has been accredited by offering several different health benefits. It has seen a recent rise in popularity – particularly in Los Angeles, where health-conscious people are looking for an alternative to caffeinated drinks. [1]
Nutritional Value of Dandelion Coffee
Dandelion roots contain good levels of iron, zinc, calcium, and potassium, and are also rich in vitamins B, C, A, and D. The roasted form of the root is known to contain probiotics and antioxidants.
Dandelion coffee is a tisane made from the root of the dandelion plant. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Dandelion Coffee Health Benefits
As well as being a good alternative for those who like the coffee flavor, but are trying to avoid the negative effects of caffeine, dandelion coffee offers a range of benefits to the body:
Diuretic Properties
Dandelions have long been used by herbalists as a diuretic. Although some herbalists prefer the leaves of the plant for this purpose, a study conducted by M. Henman at the Trinity College Dublin, Ireland, believes the roots perform this function even better. The increase of urine stimulated by this coffee can be useful for treating mild swelling, liver problems, excessive levels of toxins in the body, and menstrual issues. Dandelion root can also be used in later stages of pregnancy to address swelling, high blood pressure, and fluid retention. Whereas many diuretics also flush out the body’s potassium, dandelion root tea contains potassium and gives the body more, balancing out this potentially negative side effect. [2]
Aids Digestive Health
Dandelion coffee also works as a mild laxative, so it could also be used to combat stomach pain as per research by Steven Horne from the American Herbalists Guild. It is also thought to aid gut health with its probiotic properties. According to Steven Horne, the past president of the Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy, the use of dandelion coffee or root extracts can even be an effective way to flush the colon. Through the expulsion of toxins from the body, it is thought that dandelion root could also help prevent gallstones. [3]
Improves Circulatory Health
Dandelion roots contain potassium, which is essential in the regulation of blood pressure and kidney function. Dandelion coffee also stimulates the circulation of the blood, helping the whole body to stay healthy and receive the oxygenation it needs to function. This can be particularly useful for those with low blood pressure or during menstruation. [4]
How to Drink Dandelion Coffee?
Dandelion coffee comes in whole roots, pieces, powder, or in a tincture, all of which can be steeped in hot water. It is easiest to buy from health food stores, but it’s also possible to make your coffee by harvesting the dandelion roots. You can read How To Make Dandelion Coffee for a detailed guide on how to harvest, roast, and make dandelion root powder.
Word of Caution
It is best to check with a medical professional if you would like to use this specialty coffee to treat a particular disorder, as there have been some reports of negative interactions with various drugs. If you experience any serious gastrointestinal side effects, discontinue use immediately.
