Dandelions are some of the most common weeds on the planet. Hardy, resilient and difficult to get rid of, dandelions thrive in almost any climate. While most people view this plant as a nuisance or a weed, dandelions have been purported to have health benefits for people ranging from weight loss to kidney health and the most common way to get a dose is through dandelion tea.

Scientifically speaking, dandelion tea benefits have not been fully evaluated. However, it is shown that dandelions are known diuretics. Able to leech water and salt out of the body, dandelion tea can help people lose water weight or combat bloating. Further benefits, such as stimulating digestion, curbing appetite and improving liver function have not been fully evaluated. Regardless, here is a step by step guide to make a cup of dandelion tea for yourself.

6 Steps To The Perfect Dandelion Tea

1. Fill a tea pot with water and bring to boil. While the size of your tea pot may vary, measure out the number of cups of water you put into your tea pot to ensure there is a proper ratio of water to tea.

2. Once the water is boiling, add two teaspoons of dandelion tea powder per cup of water in the tea pot. Stir thoroughly until the powder is fully dissolved in the tea pot.

3. Reduce the heat underneath the tea pot and allow it to set for about a minute while the dandelion root simmers in the water.

4. Remove the tea pot from heat and cover. Let the tea set for about five to seven minutes in the covered tea pot before pouring.

5. Using a coffee filter or other form of fine strainer, pour the tea through the filter to remove floating particles and into a waiting cup.

6. Enjoy!

Making dandelion tea is a pretty straightforward process. This recipe is based on purchasing dandelion tea powder from a health food store of tea shop. While you can make your own dandelion tea powder from home, the process of gathering the dandelion leaves and dandelion root, drying, roasting and grinding them can be tedious. Furthermore, plucking dandelions straight from your front yard can pose a health risk should your yard have pesticides or other lawn chemicals that dandelions can leech through the soil.

Add sweetener to your tea to make it a bit more palatable. Dandelion tea has a bitter taste and can be unsavory for first time drinkers. Several cups of dandelion tea per day is advised for those looking to receive the most health benefits. Be advised, however, as a diuretic urine production will be greatly increased, leading to potential dehydration. Be sure to consume plenty of water in addition to your cup of dandelion tea.

Furthermore, do not take dandelion tea if you are currently taking medications that contain lithium, antibiotics or antacids. The active ingredients in dandelion tea can interfere with these medications and cause potential complications.