Dandelion Root Roasted Tea

Western style -1 tsp / 250 ml 95-100 degC / 2-4 g. Steep for 6-8 minutes (or simmer for 5 minutes for more body) and strain. Optional: some milk.

Gongfu style - Less traditional but works if you like intensity. In a 120-150 ml pot, heat 5-6 g, pour quickly (20-30 sec), then 30-45 sec infusions according to taste in a 120-150 ml pot.

Iced / Cold brew - 8-10 g in 1 L. Warm steep 10 minutes, strain over ice; cold steep 8-10 hours in fridge, strain. If desired, sweeten or frost with milk.

Prebiotic support (inulin): Dandelion root is a natural source of inulin-type fructans, a prebiotic fibre that can nourish beneficial gut bacteria. Analytical work has quantified substantial fructan/inulin levels in T. officinale roots, supporting its use as a prebiotic ingredient. PharmaciaScienceDirect

Metabolic markers (evidence on inulin itself): Randomised human trials of inulin (not specific to dandelion) show modulatory effects on the gut microbiota and report signals on glycaemic outcomes in adults, though results vary by population and dose. This helps explain why inulin-rich roots like dandelion are often used in metabolic-friendly diets. BioMed CentralScienceDirect

Digestive comfort & bitters: Dandelion’s bitter compounds and phenolics are discussed in reviews for their roles in digestive function and gastrointestinal comfort, aligning with its traditional “after-meal” use. Evidence remains a mix of in vitro/animal data with emerging human-relevant mechanisms. ScienceDirect

Liver-focused research (early-stage): Contemporary reviews summarise antioxidant and hepatoprotective findings for T. officinale preparations—promising but still largely preclinical and not specific to roasted tea. MDPIOAJI

Glucose-related research (preclinical): Recent lab studies on dandelion root extracts (not brewed tea) explore antidiabetic potential via phenolics, inulin and polysaccharides; human trials specific to roasted root tea are lacking. MDPIRSU

Note: Only limited human data exist on the tea itself - roasted dandelion root tea. Most data are for dandelion concentrates or for inulin as dietary fibre.

Avoid if you have an allergy to plants in Asteraceae / Compositae (ragweed, daisies).

As dandelion has mild diuretic effects, avoid diuretics or lithium.

Bitterness of the tea warns you to consult a clinician if you have gallstones, obstruction of a bile duct or active peptic condition.

Persons on blood-thinning therapy, diabetes medications, or with kidney issues should seek medical advice before use.

None of these are recommended during pregnancy or nursing without professional advice.