A Wild Weed Regarded as the “Queen of Herbs”: Brew It as Tea and Its Many Benefits May Surprise You

Just a wild plant growing by the roadside, dandelion has long been considered “both a vegetable and a medicine.”

With its mild, refreshing taste, it can be eaten fresh as a vegetable or dried for medicinal use. In traditional Eastern medicine, dandelion is believed to help clear heat, detoxify the body, reduce swelling, promote urination, and support liver protection.

Modern research has also identified various active compounds throughout the dandelion plant, such as plant sterols, choline, inulin, and pectin. Some studies note that dandelion extracts may exhibit inhibitory effects against certain bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, hemolytic streptococcus, pneumococcus, and dysentery bacilli. For this reason, it is sometimes referred to as a “natural antibiotic.” However, its use should still be tailored to individual health conditions and guided by professional advice.

Below are some commonly mentioned benefits of drinking dandelion tea:

First, support for acne-prone and inflamed skin. Some sources suggest that drinking dandelion tea regularly may help improve inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema or heat-related breakouts. The flavonoids, phenolic acids, and plant sterols in dandelion are believed to have antioxidant properties, which may help limit pigmentation and promote brighter-looking skin. Traditionally, mashed dandelion has also been combined with angelica root, dried rose, clove, pearl powder, and honey to create a nourishing facial mask.

Second, support for recurrent mouth ulcers. Repeated mouth ulcers may be associated with hemolytic streptococcus bacteria in the body. Dandelion is believed to have inhibitory effects against this group of bacteria. Some people chew dried dandelion for a few minutes, swallowing part and keeping part in the mouth, using it both internally and externally with the aim of speeding healing and reducing pain.

Third, anti-inflammatory and swelling support. When the body experiences inflammation, prolonged high fever, or painful boils, dandelion tea is often used traditionally as a cooling remedy. Postpartum women sometimes use it, according to folk experience, to help support lactation.

Fourth, stomach health and support in managing Helicobacter pylori. In traditional medicine, dandelion is considered helpful for relieving epigastric pain caused by internal heat, bloating, and acid reflux. Some preliminary studies suggest that dandelion may inhibit Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with gastritis and bad breath. However, it is not a substitute for medical treatment.

Fifth, diuretic effects and liver support. Dandelion is believed to increase urine output without causing significant potassium loss, unlike some diuretics. Dandelion leaf extract has also been mentioned as potentially helpful in reducing premenstrual edema in women.

Beyond making tea, young dandelion leaves can also be used in cooking.

For example, dandelion mixed with egg: The greens are washed, briefly blanched, and tossed with shredded fried egg, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, white sesame seeds, and a little sugar. This dish has a light flavor and is believed to stimulate digestion, suitable for those with poor appetite or internal heat.

Or stir-fried dandelion with pork belly: The greens are cut into pieces and quickly stir-fried with pork belly, ginger, and garlic, seasoned to taste. According to folk belief, this dish helps clear heat, promote urination, and support relief from constipation and dry skin.

If you enjoy tea, you can brew dandelion with lemon slices and a bit of rock sugar to help cool the body and relieve thirst. Or combine dandelion with rose flowers and dried tangerine peel to create a tea that supports digestion and promotes balanced circulation.

Although known as the “queen of herbs,” dandelion should not be overused. People with cold constitutions, low blood pressure, or those taking diuretics or other specialized medications should consult a doctor before using it regularly. Herbal remedies may support health, but they do not replace medical diagnosis or treatment for clearly defined illnesses.