Greek Dandelion (Ikaria Blue Zone)

Type: Taraxacum Officinale

Region: Ikaria 

Sourcing: Wildcrafted 

Taste: Bitter, earthy, floral, herbal.

Pairs with: honey, lemon, cinnamon stick

Ratio: 1 tsp per cup

Nutrients: vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and several B vitamins including riboflavin, niacin, and folate. It also contains minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. Dandelion tea is also a good source of antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Moreover, dandelion tea contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, aiding in digestion and overall well-being.

How to Make Dandelion Tea: Bring 10–12 fluid ounces of water to a boil and simmer 1 tsp of Dandelion for 5-7 minutes. 

How to Make Cold Brew Iced Tea: Just combine Dandelion (2 tsp/pinches) and water (6 cups) in a glass pitcher and let the tea soak and infuse the water for 6 hours in the refrigerator covered with a lid. Strain, add some ice cubes (optional), and enjoy. 

Characteristics: vegan, sugar free, zero calories, all natural, gluten free, pesticides free, no chemicals, Non-GMO

Other Tips: 

While simmering, keep the tea covered. This will prevent the beneficial essential oils from escaping with the steam.

A longer simmer will produce a stronger cup of tea without any hint of bitterness.

If you are making a cold brew, make a whole pitcher and not just a cup. Make sure the buds are well soaked -you may put a lid and shake- and keep your pitcher covered in the refrigerator. Your cold brew tea will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Make Herbal Tea Ice Cubes! Just pour your cold brew tea into ice cube trays, and freeze completely. Pair with filtered water, club sodas, fruit smoothies, mocktails, and cocktails.

Greek Dandelion & Health Benefits

Dandelion, particularly the Greek variety found in Ikaria, one of the world's renowned Blue Zones, offers various health benefits supported by research. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, dandelion has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. Studies have shown that dandelion extracts exhibit potent antioxidant activity due to their high content of phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Dandelion also contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Additionally, research suggests that dandelion may have diuretic properties, aiding in detoxification and supporting kidney function. Moreover, dandelion has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and blood sugar-regulating effects, although further research is needed in these areas. The consumption of dandelion tea or extracts may contribute to overall health and longevity, potentially reflecting its traditional use in Blue Zone populations like Ikaria.

REFERENCES:

1. Jeon et al., "Phenolic composition, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of extracts from Greek dandelion (Taraxacum megalorrhizon)."
2. Schütz et al., "Prebiotic potential of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) leaves."
3. González-Castejón et al., "Potential health benefits of dandelion: A narrative review of the evidence.")