Dandelion Root Tea

Why people make this tea

Dandelion is one of those plants that modern science and traditional medicine have quietly agreed on. In Chinese food therapy, the whole dandelion plant — leaves, stem, and root — has been used for centuries to support the liver, clear heat, and reduce swelling. The root, however, is considered the most potent part, especially when roasted or dried: it develops a pleasant earthy, slightly coffee-like aroma that makes the tea genuinely enjoyable.

Nourilo first became interested in dandelion root tea after a student in his postnatal care class was recovering from a Helicobacter pylori infection. The student had been successfully treated medically but was worried the bacteria had not been fully eliminated. Dandelion leaf tea, and especially the root, has been studied for its potential to inhibit H. pylori, and Nourilo recommended it as a daily drink to support the stomach’s recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence. Because H. pylori is one of the primary risk factors for stomach cancer, he emphasises strongly: anyone who tests positive should see a doctor for complete medical treatment first — food therapy is a complement, never a substitute.

Method

1. Place the dandelion root in a teapot or heatproof cup.
2. Pour a small amount of boiling water over the root to rinse; discard the rinse water.
3. Add fresh boiling water to fill the pot; cover and steep for 15 minutes.
4. Pour into cups. Stir in a little raw honey if desired.
5. The same root can be re-steeped with fresh boiling water until the flavour fades.

Nourilo’s Tips

Roasted dandelion root has a pleasant, mild fragrance — less bitter than dandelion leaf tea, and not particularly cold in nature, making it suitable for daily use without the cooling concerns of many other “detox” herbs. It can be enjoyed by the whole family. If you are interested in trying it specifically for H. pylori recovery or prevention, make it a consistent daily tea for several weeks, always alongside proper medical treatment if you have a confirmed infection. Dandelion root is available at Chinese herb shops and Asian grocers, as well as some Western health food stores and online.