Bismillaahirrohmaanirrohiim,
Dandelion plants, well known as weeds to home gardeners, are actually herbs! All parts of them are edible. Not only they taste good, they also are low in calories and packed with vitamins. (1)
The yellow petals from the dandelion flower and the leaves can be eaten in salad, and the leaves can also be cooked and eaten like spinach. The roots of the plant can also be dry-baked and used as a coffee substitute. The leaves are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin K, calcium and iron. The roots of plant can also be dry-baked and used as a coffee substitute. (2)
One popular way to eat dandelion is by making dandelion tea. Some researches show that this dandelion tea has the following benefits: (3)
- It reduces water weight.
- It could promote liver health
- It Can Act As a Natural Coffee Substitute
- Similarities Between Dandelion and a Weight Loss Drug?
- Dandelion Tea May Soothe Digestive Ailments
- It Could Have Future Anticancer Applications
Here is what you need to do to make your homemade dandelion tea:
First of all you need to make sure your dandelion plants are free from pesticides or herbicides. The best way to get them is from your backyard as they grow wildly.
Boil water in a saucepan, just enough to fill your teacup.
Whilst boiling, pick about 10-15 flower heads and remove the green part underneath the flower. These green parts if not removed will give bitter taste which you don’t want to experience.
It is a bit tricky to remove the green parts. I would washed the flower heads first. When they are wet, it is easier to remove the green part by holding it in one hand and hold the yellow petals in another hand. Then gently pull the green part in one pull, and you will be left with the yellow petals.
After rinsing them thoroughly, place these yellow petal in your teacup. Add the boiling water and let it sit for about 20 minutes.
Strain the tea and add sugar if you wish. Enjoy your tea!
Source:
- https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/can-eat-dandelion-greens-raw-4710.html
- https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2016-05-12/edible-weeds-and-how-you-can-use-them/7406004
- https://www.healthline.com/health/ways-dandelion-tea-could-be-good-for-your
Slough-United Kingdom, 10 Juni 2020/18 Syawal 1441H
KaQiRaNa 