I was online looking at several other blogs and reading about herbs and other stuff and decided that I would make a couple cups of "dandelion coffee". I know that it's commonly mixed with coffee and it's good that way and I've made the Dandelion Mocha and it's pretty doggone good but drinking straight dandelion coffee? Hmmmmm!!! I had already chopped and roasted dandelion root from this past Spring. I actually had posted a blog concerning it and showed you some pictures. So, all that being said, I put my pot on and heated up some water just to the point of boiling. I put in approximately 24 oz. of water and we were off on a brand new adventure.
I was a little nervous about drinking it. Now, if you are a coffee drinker I want you to really think about this next statement for a minute. Seriously now, does coffee REALLY taste good? or is it an acquired taste? a nice smell . . . and addictive? Just think about it. THEN . . . taste the dandelion coffee. It really doesn't taste too bad at all. Honest, it really doesn't, and when you put in some flavored creamer you almost think it is regular coffee. Now, all that being said, it's not the best tasting either. But it is oh, so good for you. Dandelion roots provide vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D and vitamin B complex, as well as zinc, iron and potassium and are known to stimulate the appetite and promote digestion. Dandelion has been shown to improve liver function by removing toxins and reestablishing hydration and electrolyte balance. Animal studies have shown that dandelion lowers and controls cholesterol levels. Dandelion increases bile production and reduces inflammation to help with gallbladder problems and blockages. Dandelion contains essential fatty acids and phytonutrients that reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can relieve pain and swelling. Every part of the dandelion plant is rich in antioxidants that prevent free-radical damage to cells and DNA, slowing down the aging process in our cells. As a diuretic dandelion increases urination which then lowers blood pressure. The fiber and potassium in dandelion also regulate blood pressure. Just a common weed that we never seem to be able to rid our yards of, but most assuredly should be an essential part of our diets. That's for certain. Dandelion buds, dandelion flowers, dandelion leaves, dandelion roots. All good for you. That's Dandy Dandelion!!