Simple Dandelion Detox - CNM College of Naturopathic Medicine (2024)

If you overindulged this festive season, why not start the New Year with a detox?

Dandelion is an excellent herb for cleansing the body, especially the liver, kidneys and intestines. Often just seen as a common weed, it’s unbeknown that dandelion has many medicinal properties and has been used by herbalists for centuries to address ailments such as high blood pressure, kidney and liver issues, constipation and acne. Both the leaf and root are used for therapeutic purposes.

This simple detox recipe uses dandelion root as the base with a few additional herbs for extra health benefits.

Health Benefits of Herbs

Dandelion has strong diuretic and detoxifying actions, making it a great herb for cleansing toxins out of the body. It helps to detox the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and blood, and also regulate bowel motions. The root is used for the liver and colon and the leaves are used as a diuretic to gently flush toxins through the kidneys. Dandelion is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants which helps protect cells from toxin damage. It also contains inulin, a soluble fibre that helps build good gut bacteria. Dandelion is a very gentle herb that works gradually by clearing and moving toxins and stagnation out of the body to improve health.

Ginger is a warming herb that is rich in antioxidants; it helps to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.

Cinnamon is another warming herb that is great for digestion, blood sugar balance and protecting cells from damage. It can also aid the body in fighting off infection by supporting the immune system.

Cardamon and cloves are aromatic herbs that are packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties to protect the body against infections and toxins. They also aid digestion by activating the sensory glands to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes to help break down food.

Dandelion Detox Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp of dandelion root
• 2 large cups of cold water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cardamon pods (break the pods with the side of a knife)
• 1-3 cloves
• A few slices of fresh ginger
• ½ – 1 tsp of black peppercorns
• 1 tsp of honey to sweeten (optional)

Method

1. Add the herbs and spices to a saucepan with the water.
2. Bring to the boil and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Sieve and drink. Sweeten with honey if required.

Notes/ Additional Information

Dried herbs can be purchased from a reputable herb supplier online. Buy organic where possible.

Author

Costas Papantoniou – Herbalist, ANP AMH