Dandelion Root Coffee

I love coffee–the smell, the taste, the caffeine–but recently began drinking dandelion root coffee instead of the real deal.  I’m loving it!  It’s easy, tasty and good for you.  Plus, it avoids the negative health impact health I experienced with regular coffee.

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True or False: Coffee is Good for You

Coffee can be good or bad for your health, depending on who you ask or which studies you read.  Mr. Native Texan swears by full strength, black coffee for help with seasonal allergies.

I have hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s.  After years of alternating between seasons of drinking coffee and seasons of abstaining, I am 99% sure that drinking coffee has a negative effect on my thyroid.

The exact effect may vary from person to person, but research does indicate that thyroid and autoimmune conditions do not respond well to regular coffee consumption.

It’s been a real conundrum for me, because Mr. Native Texan makes delicious smelling coffee every morning.  It’s so easy to help myself to a cup of joe, and it always seems to pair so well with whatever’s for breakfast.  Sigh.

But every time I get sucked into drinking coffee on a regular basis, I notice a decline in my general health.  I do drink a large cup of hot, organic, herbal tea every morning.  Mr. NT makes it and hand delivers it to my office.  Yep, he’s a keeper!  But sometimes tea just doesn’t cut it, especially with breakfast.  And dessert.

Dandelion Root Coffee

Several weeks ago I finally resolved to try a dandelion root coffee substitute, and I am hooked!  I love it!  I kind of want to shout it from the mountaintops, especially to thyroid and autoimmune folks.

If you love coffee but can’t tolerate it, there is another option!  Hooray!

Dandelion root coffee does not taste exactly like coffee, so don’t expect an exact replacement.  For me, it achieves the same results.  It’s hot, strong, on the bitter side and get this: dandelion root has tons of health benefits!  How great is that?

You can definitely pick your own dandelions (goodness knows we’ve got a plentiful supply in our yard) and roast the roots, but my favorite way to drink dandelion root coffee is Dandy Blend.

It’s a premade combination of roasted dandelion root, roasted chicory root, and a few other ingredients.  It’s free of gluten and GMOs, and it’s super easy. Easier than making coffee!  Think instant coffee, but it tastes good and is good for you.

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Dandelion is a Health Food

Dandelion is high in antioxidants and fiber.  The roots and leaves provide critical vitamins and minerals.  Who knew such a common “weed” could be so good for your health?

• B complex vitamins
• Vitamin K
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Zinc
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Iron
• Choline

Benefits of Dandelion Root & Leaves

It’s sort of amazing how many ways dandelion is shown to support good health.  Check it out…

• Protects bones / prevents osteoporosis
• Prevents tooth decay
• Soothes muscle tension
• Provide pain relief
• Reduces risk of cancer
• Natural cancer treatment
• Maintains brain function
• Promotes healthy metabolism
• Cleanses the liver
• Aids the digestive system
• Reduces inflammation
• Maintains low blood sugar
• Fights diabetes
• Fights free radical damage
• Prevents premature aging
• Fights respiratory infections
• Supports the immune system
• Promotes healthy skin
• Supports healthy pregnancy
• Supports strong lactation in nursing mothers
• Aids in balancing hormones
• Fights recurring mastitis
• Natural diuretic
• Soothes heartburn
• Fights infections of the digestive tract
• Prevents and combats urinary tract infections
• Enhances kidney health
• Prevents bladder disorders

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How to Eat Dandelion Roots & Leaves

Leaves

Pick young dandelion leaves from a clean, pesticide-free source.  Use them like any other greens!  Add them to salads and stir fries, boil them for tea.

Flower

Dandelion flowers are edible and apparently high in antioxidants.  Add them to salads or teas.

Root

Boil it for tea or roast and grind it for a coffee substitute.

Note: it’s reported that folks with certain allergies to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigold, chamomile, yarrow, daisies, or iodine should avoid dandelion.  Always do your own research and consult an expert before making major dietary changes.

How to Make Dandelion Root Coffee or (Tea)

Easiest

Use Dandy Blend instant drink mix.  I stir 2 heaping teaspoons into one mug of boiling water.  Dandelion root tea bags are also an option.

Travel Tip: I keep a few of these Dandy Blend single serve sticks in my purse for date nights and meals out, and I pack them on trips.  Depending on the size of your cup and on how strong you like your Dandy Blend, you might need to use two single serve sticks per cup of coffee.

More Effort

Purchase roasted dandelion root powder from Mountain Rose Herbs or Amazon.  You’ll also need roasted chicory root powder (also available from Mountain Rose Herbs or Amazon.)  Boil in water and strain.  Recipe here.

Serious DIY

Harvest the roots yourself.  Clean, chop and roast them.  Boil them in water or grind into powder.  Instructions here.

Sources & Further Reading

• Dandelion–A Backyard Herb with Many Benefits | Wellness Mama
• Dandelion Tea for Liver Detox, Healthy Skin and Stomach | Dr. Axe
• Dandelion Root Profile | Mountain Rose Herbs
• Dandelion | University of Maryland Medical Center

Are you a coffee drinker?  Have you noticed any effects on your health from drinking coffee?  Have you tried dandelion root coffee or tea?

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