Learn how to make your own refreshing dandelion water using one of nature’s most misunderstood plants!
Dandelions are complex little flowers. They’re tough, often making their homes where no other plant can, such as cracks in sidewalks. And with how quickly they regrow, leaving even the smallest section of their roots is nearly the same as leaving them in the ground entirely. Despite their seeds being used to make wishes, dandelions are generally seen as a “bad plant.” They’re a weed, a terror to lawns, and should be removed on sight. However, few people know that dandelions can actually benefit your health in various ways. And their abundance makes them a great entry plant for herbalism! That’s why we’re using this article to talk about the benefits of dandelion water and how you can make it yourself.
Benefits of Dandelion Water
From the flower to the roots, the entire dandelion is edible. Generally, it is used in salads or teas such as dandelion water. Regardless of how you consume them, dandelions can provide you with various benefits. For starters, they are packed with vitamins and minerals, like potassium, vitamins K, C, and A, etc. They have multiple antioxidants, which can serve a number of functions in your body, such as fighting inflammation and cell damage. Dandelions may also help promote gut health and proper digestion. Along with this, limited research suggests dandelions possibly reduce both blood sugar and cholesterol.
Side Effects and Risks of Dandelions
Despite having been used in teas and other dishes for centuries, many current sources warn that there have been few studies on how dandelions can affect one’s health. The primary risk is that some people may have an allergic reaction when they consume the flower. So before you start using them consistently, make some light dandelion water to make sure you aren’t allergic. Along with this, dandelions are often sprayed with pesticides since they are considered weeds. So make sure you only consume dandelions you know for certain haven’t been sprayed.
Making Dandelion Water
Dandelion water is an easy way to utilize any dandelions growing in your local area. However, be sure to collect dandelions that are not near the street and have not had any pesticides sprayed on or near them. We use the dandelions from our lawn because we don’t use any pesticides or chemical fertilizers on our grass.
Because the entire dandelion is edible, it’s up to you which parts you want to use for your dandelion water. You can use just the flower, just the leaves, just the roots, or a combination of all three. Something to keep in mind is that the leaves and roots have stronger flavors and can be overpowering to some people. I like to use just the flower for ease of harvesting, as the roots can be extensive and hard to get out of the ground.
Dandelion Water
Make your very own dandelion water -- a refreshing and nourishing beverage for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 cup dandelion flowers, leaves, and/or roots
- 4 cups filtered water
- Honey to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Gather dandelions from an area that is pesticide-free and away from any streets.
- Rinse the dandelions under cool water and allow to air dry
- Once dry, bring water to a boil over medium/high heat.
- Put the dandelions into the pot and simmer for 45 min to an hour.
- Once it's done simmering, take your dandelion water off the heat and let cool.
- Then, strain the dandelion water into another container and store in the fridge.
Notes
We understand if the idea of consuming dandelions might seem odd or uncomfortable. After spending our entire lives being told they aren’t good for anything other than taking over lawns, we were nervous to make dandelion water. If the idea of drinking straight dandelion water makes you uncomfortable at first, try diluting it in water or mixing it with another herbal tea. Practically any way you get dandelions into your system can offer benefits for your health.
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