Dandelion, a coffee substitute? How can this herbal root that's been used over and over for herbal/medicinal purposes equate to a beverage that has a reputation for its addictive taste and energy-boosting effects? Read on to find out. 

The dandelion plant has always been recognized as a helpful ingredient used for health-related reasons. It's mostly utilized for its role in aiding digestion and stimulating appetite. However, did you know that dandelion is also a key to making a good coffee alternative? In fact, roasted dandelion roots are the key to a nicely brewed coffee-like tea that won't give you bloating or hyperacidity.

If you're trying to quit coffee but miss its smell and taste, then the roasted dandelion root tea might delight you!

In this article, we'll be discussing all things related to dandelion coffee and dandelion tea and why it's a drink to consider adding to your lifestyle.

What is dandelion coffee/dandelion tea? 

This is a caffeine-free coffee-like brewed drink that's actually tea. It's made from the dandelion plant, particularly from dandelion roots. It has gotten the reputation of being a coffee alternative because the ways of preparing them and the taste will remind you of coffee. This is an ideal beverage for those who are infatuated with coffee but are cutting back due to health reasons. 

What does dandelion root coffee taste like? 

The roasted dandelion root tea has a sweet, robust bold flavor with a hint of smoky notes. A sip of it will remind you of coffee. It also shares a similar physical appearance to that of coffee. The flavor of the dandelion root coffee can be further enhanced by adding milk or sweeteners, depending on your taste. 

History of dandelion root extract

According to traditional Chinese and Native American medicine, dandelion root extract was often used to treat conditions in the stomach and liver. Even modern-day herbalists believe that the dandelion root extract has the potential to treat several other ailments or diseases. 

Now, the dandelion root extract is also prominent for making the dandelion root coffee tea. 

What are the health benefits of roasted dandelion root tea? 

As previously mentioned, the organic dandelion root was said to have plenty of positive effects on one's health. This means that drinking this tea made from roasted dandelion would be beneficial to your lifestyle. However, keep in mind that scientific research that supports the medicinal use of dandelion roots is still lacking. Most of it came from human anecdotes.

Here are the benefits of the dandelion root extract based on current research:

Treating high blood pressure 

The dandelion plant has "diuretic" properties which are commonly used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, liver disease, some types of kidney disease, as well as premenstrual bloating and water retention. 

Treating diabetes

Other than having diuretic properties, the dandelion root is also known for having inulin. This contains a complex carbohydrate that supports the growth of healthy bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract and gets rid of the bad ones. This also slows down the flow of sugar from the intestines to the bloodstream, preventing an increase in your blood sugar levels. 

Helps with skin disorders

In traditional herbal medicine, dried dandelion root is ground and mixed with water to create a soothing paste to help with skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis, rashes, eczema, and boils. Research suggests that it has mild anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties as well as protection from sun damage. 

An anti-cancer agent

Some research suggests that organic dandelion root may help in preventing cancer by inducing apoptosis, the process of programmed cell death, in certain cancer cells. Other studies showcased dandelion root extract triggered apoptosis in leukemia and melanoma. However, further studies are still needed to prove that dandelion roots can be used for cancer treatment and prevention.

Cleanses the liver 

A previous study showed that after feeding mice with a dandelion root extract, they experienced a significantly slowed down progression of liver scarring. It seemed as though the dandelion root extract was able to inactivate the primary cells involved in fibrosis. This allowed the liver to recover and slowly regenerate. 

What are the ingredients of roasted dandelion root tea? 

Here at Life of Cha, we make our tea as unique as possible. This is also proven by our very own take on the dandelion coffee, which is composed of organic roasted dandelion roots, chicory & barley, burdock root & ginger, all infused together to create that perfect roasted dandelion root tea with a desirable aroma and taste. 

Without the roasted dandelion roots, we wouldn't be able to make our Purify Coffee Tea, the best coffee alternative there is. 

How to brew the roasted dandelion root tea? 

Aching to make your own healthy coffee alternative? Here's a simple guide on how to prepare your roasted dandelion root tea with our Purify Coffee Tea blend: 

• Scoop 1 heaped tablespoon of the Purify coffee tea and pour it into a cup. 
• Boil 250ml of water and then pour it into the same cup with the tea. Let it steep for approximately 15 minutes. 
• You may or may not add a dash of soy or nut milk into your tea. 
• Sip your coffee using your tea infuser straw. Enjoy! 

How to roast the dandelion roots

You can purchase raw dandelion roots anywhere. But if you want the whole experience, you can opt to roast them yourself! Here's how:

All you have to do is grab your dandelion roots. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast them in your oven with a temperature that's set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Roast it for about 10 to 20 minutes, while stirring them halfway through. Keep them in the oven longer if you want a darker roast. 

Other recipes for the roasted dandelion root tea

Here are other recipes you can follow to make your roasted dandelion root tea even more special: 

1. Roasted Dandelion Root Coffee With Chicory And Cinnamon

Ingredients: 

• 2 tablespoons roasted dandelion roots 
• 1 teaspoon roasted chicory roots 
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon chips
• 2 cups water

Directions:

• Put all ingredients in one small pot and bring to a boil. 
• Boil it for 5 to 10 minutes. 
• Use a fine-mesh sieve to strain out the pieces of root. 
• Serve the roasted dandelion root coffee with chicory and cinnamon in a mug. You may add milk, cream, or your desired sweetener to further enhance its flavor. 

2. Dandelion Mocha

Ingredients:

• Roasted dandelion roots
• Chicory root
• Reishi Mushroom
• Cacao nibs 
• Licorice root

Directions:

• Put all of the herbs in one pot and add cold water. Bring to a boil. 
• Strain the pieces of the roots and others from the water. 
• Pour the tea mixture into a cup. 
• Use a milk frother to add that foamy milk at the top of the drink. If there's no milk frother, you can opt to warm the milk on the stove and whisk it thoroughly. 
• Add a few sprinkles of more herbs to finish off your tasty beverage. 

What are the side effects of the dandelion plant?

Dandelion is generally deemed safe to consume by adults in moderate doses. However, it's possible for some people to experience or feel side effects like heartburn, diarrhea, skin irritation, or upset stomach. 

For those allergic to chamomile, chrysanthemums, ragweed, yarrow, marigold, feverfew, or plants belonging in the Asteraceae family, avoid consuming dandelion roots for they may trigger symptoms such as watery eyes, rash, and others. 

Pregnant women or expectant mothers, as well as children, are also advised to stay away from dandelion roots because there's still a lack of research with regard to their long-term safety. It's also possible that the overconsumption of dandelion may negatively affect fertility in women and testosterone levels in men due to the plant's substance called phytoestrogen. 

Is organic dandelion root coffee tea an ideal replacement for regular coffee? 

We can't totally say for sure that organic dandelion root is equally good or better than coffee. However, if you are trying to stay away from caffeine or would like to experience coffee in a way without its side effects, then dandelion coffee is a good start. It's caffeine-free and easy to prepare, perfect to start your day!