Last Updated on October 9, 2022 by theworldofsleepstaff
A fast-rising and popular tea in the herbal industry, dandelion tea is really taking off.
Most often than not, the dandelion plant is usually considered a weed. However, what many people may not know is that dandelion actually contains an ample amount of vitamins as well as minerals that are beneficial to the health.
Virtually every part of the plant can be used to make the herbal tea. Dandelion tea can be made from the flowers, leaves, or roots of the dandelion plant, and depending on the source, the tea tastes different.
For example, dandelion leaf tea tastes almost earthy and herbal. Roasted dandelion root tea tastes almost like coffee and has an almost smoky flavor and a bolder taste compared to the tea made from the leaf. Lastly, dandelion tea from dandelion flowers has a wine-like taste.
As we mentioned, dandelion tea has numerous health benefits and contains nutrients and medicinal compounds. This is primarily because all parts of the dandelion plant contain various vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals.
In short, when life gives you dandelions, make dandelion tea!
Below, we’ll review some effects you can expect when drinking dandelion tea before bed, as we look at its impact on sleep and overall health.
Disclaimer: You must always consult your doctor before including a new supplement or food into your daily routine as only your doctor can explain any pros or cons that are specific to you. Some supplements & foods may interfere with medications and/or cause allergic reactions.
Dandelion Tea Before Bed: Three Effects to Expect On Sleep
1. Can Help You Sleep
Unlike many herbal products, dandelion tea contains absolutely no form of caffeine. Therefore it is perfect for those wanting a good night of sleep.
Taking a cup before bed is guaranteed to warm you up and relax, setting you up for a better night’s sleep.
On top of that, while dandelion tea is not traditionally known as a sleep-inducing drink, it has been found that the liver-cleansing and regulating properties of dandelion are valuable in helping to promote sleep.
Blood sugar fluctuation is a major factor in insomnia, but dandelion can help combat this since it helps to clean and regulate liver functions.
Important Note: If you are being treated for liver or kidney issues, you should avoid consuming dandelion tea, except with permission from your doctor. This is because dandelion tea could increase the risk of complications for someone with kidney or liver issues.
2. It Is An Abundant Source Of Vitamins & Minerals
Adding dandelion tea to your nighttime routine not only adds warmth to your body, but it’ll also give your health and body system access to useful minerals and vitamins.
As earlier stated, the dandelion plant is chock full of several vitamins and minerals that may foster relaxation and good health. All of which can help you get a better sleep.
3. May Wake You Up For The Bathroom
Dandelion has diuretic effects and encourages fluid release. It can reduce water weight and retention in the body. So drinking dandelion tea before bed will probably have you heading to the toilet not long after.
That may prove beneficial to you if you drink it a few hours before you go to bed because it’ll make you release fluids before bed which will, in turn, make you feel lighter and may stop you waking to go the bathroom. On the other hand, drinking it too near bedtime may rouse you from your slumber.
Important Note On Medication Interference: If you are taking a diuretic, it is better to avoid dandelion tea. Since dandelion has natural diuretic properties, it may interfere with the action of lithium and similar medications.
Ten General Effects Of Dandelion Tea on The Human Body
1. Lowers Blood Pressure
Dandelion tea is an excellent source of potassium, a mineral, and electrolyte that stimulates the heartbeat.
Potassium, a mineral that is associated with decreased blood pressure, may help the kidney to filter toxins more effectively and improve blood flow.
2. It Promotes Liver Health
A 2017 study suggests that the polysaccharides in dandelion are known to reduce stress on the liver and support its ability to produce bile. They also help your kidney to filter potentially harmful chemicals out of your body system.
Important Note: If you are being treated for liver or kidney issues, you should avoid consuming dandelion tea, except with permission from your doctor. This is because dandelion tea could increase the risk of complications for someone with kidney disease.
3. Anti-Cancer Properties
In a study, researchers found that dandelion root extract effectively killed cancer cells in some types of cancer without causing any damage to the healthy cells. Researchers are optimistic that dandelion extract may be the future for cancer treatments.
4. Boosts Immune System
Researchers were able to prove the antiviral properties of the dandelion plant by using its extract against the Hepatitis B virus.
Dandelion tea can also be used to fight against flu, although it is not advised to be used as a substitute for the flu vaccine.
Additionally, dandelion tea is a good source of Vitamin C, one of the most helpful vitamins for the immune system. So that’s another reason to consider drinking dandelion tea before bed!
5. Anti-Oxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Dandelion tea have been used for centuries to improve liver health due to its antioxidant properties. According to a report published by Nutrition Reviews, the dandelion extract helped reduce liver damage, including alcohol-induced liver damage.
For centuries, Native Americans boiled dandelions and drank the water to help reduce swelling caused by several diseases. While modern research has not linked dandelion tea to a reduction in inflammatory diseases, it is definitely useful in improving one’s overall health.
6. May Soothe Digestive Ailments & Treat Constipation
Dandelion root tea can have many positive effects on your digestive system. It has historically been used to improve appetite, soothe minor digestive ailments and possibly relieve constipation.
Furthermore, dandelion root is a rich source of the prebiotic fiber inulin, which has been shown to reduce constipation and promote food movement through the digestive system.
7. May Help Prevent Urinary Tract Infections
When paired with another herb, Uva Ursi, dandelion roots and leaves may help prevent urinary tract infections. It is believed that this combination works because of antibacterial compounds in Uva Ursi and the increased urination or diuretic function associated with dandelion.
8. May Have The Same Effect As A Weight Loss Supplement
Some other researchers suggest that dandelion’s ability to improve carbohydrate metabolism and reduce fat absorption may lead to weight loss. It has also been purported that it may have the same effect as a weight loss drug. However, researchers recommend further study on the possible anti-obesity effects of dandelion.
9. May Support Healthy Bones
Although some of its individual nutrients contribute to the maintenance of strong, healthy bones, very little research has been conducted on dandelion’s effect on bone health.
Dandelion greens are a good source of calcium and Vitamin K, both of which play a key role in bone health. Some research suggests that the antioxidants in dandelion protect against bone loss by decreasing oxidative stress.
10. May Be A Good Skin Care Treatment
Animal and test tube research notes that dandelion extracts may protect against skin damage caused by acne, sunlight, and aging.
In one study, dandelion leaf and flower extracts prevented skin damage when applied just before or immediately after exposure to UVB radiation. Interestingly, dandelion roots did not have the same effect. However, there isn’t much recent research on the effects of dandelion on skin health.
Side Effects Of Dandelion Tea
Dandelion is generally considered safe even if it is taken in large quantities. However, some people who use it may still experience some side effects. Most of these side effects usually manifest as gastrointestinal and digestive disturbances.
Some of the side effects one may experience are listed below.
- Stomach discomfort
- Heartburn
- Diarrhea
- Bloatedness
- It may also cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to the plant. Reactions like itching, rash, running, or blocked nose.
How to Make Dandelion Tea
To make dandelion tea with dandelion flowers, you will boil 8 ounces of water in a saucepan. While you wait for the water to boil, gather ten dandelion flowers and remove all the green parts of the plant, then place the yellow petals inside a tea ball which you will then place in your teacup. Pour the boiling water over the petals and allow it to steep for 20 minutes. If desired, add honey afterward.
To make dandelion tea from leaves, a similar process is applied; meanwhile, it is allowed to steep for 10 minutes.
To make dandelion tea from its roots, you will only need to boil 1 quart of water, add the dried dandelion roots and let it boil for 10 minutes. Afterward, you will strain out the dried dandelion roots and discard them. The tea is then poured into a cup. If desired, add sweetener.
Dandelion Tea Before Bed: Our Final Thoughts
Despite their many potential benefits, dandelion plants and supplements should not be considered a replacement for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. However, this tea should still make a unique, nutritious addition to your diet.
Finally, before taking dandelions supplements or tea, you must always consult a healthcare professional first.