Dandelion, leaves

Dandelion Leaves Herbal Tea Cut

Ground Dried Dandelion Leaves

• Harvest 2024
• Origin Italy

Dandelion Leaves: Description

The dandelion leaves for herbal tea cut are one of the most precious treasures nature offers us. These leaves, harvested from the Taraxacum officinale plant, are carefully dried and cut to preserve their extraordinary organoleptic properties intact. With their characteristic deep green color that fades to lighter shades during drying, the dandelion leaves for herbal tea cut are finely chopped, ready to be used in infusions and decoctions. Their slightly rough texture and distinctive herbal aroma convey the essence of this plant, considered in ancient times an ally of the liver and digestive system. 

Dandelion: Plant

The dandelion leaves for herbal tea cut come from one of the most familiar and beloved plants in our natural landscape. Known as "lion's tooth" for the characteristic serration of its leaves, or "puffball" when its fluffy seeds dance in the wind, the dandelion has accompanied generations of children in their springtime games. Who hasn't blown on one of these white spheres, making a wish as the tiny parachutes scattered in the air? This resilient plant, capable of growing in the most challenging soils, has earned a special place in the collective imagination, becoming a symbol of resilience and adaptability. 

How Ground Dandelion Leaves are Obtained

The leaves are harvested in spring when young. After a gentle wash, they are dried at low temperatures (below 40°C) to preserve their integrity. Once ready, they are cut into small fragments ideal for infusion.

Dandelion: History and Origins

The dandelion leaves for herbal tea cut tell a story that spans millennia of folk medicine and culinary traditions. This humble plant, often underestimated, has deep roots in the herbal culture of various civilizations. The Arabs, as early as the 10th century, called it "tarakhshagog" (from which the scientific name Taraxacum derives), recognizing its virtues as an ally of daily well-being.

In medieval Europe, Benedictine monks cultivated dandelion in their medicinal gardens, including it in their illustrated herbals as a precious remedy. Dried dandelion leaves were an integral part of the popular pharmacopeia, used in decoctions and preparations that country women passed down from generation to generation.

In China, where it was called "golden herb," dandelion was considered a gift from nature to purify the body with the arrival of spring. Interestingly, during World War II, when coffee was scarce, the roasted roots of this plant became a valued substitute, while the loose leaves continued to be collected for nourishing soups in times of famine. In the Italian countryside, farmers called it "piscialetto" for its supposed diuretic properties, and grandmothers gathered the tender leaf rosettes to prepare bitter salads that, they said, "cleaned the blood" after winter.

How to Use Dandelion Leaves in Cooking and Herbal Teas

The dried leaves can be used to prepare herbal teas, enrich soups, flavor doughs, or create aromatic seasonings. Versatile, they are also suitable for cold infusions or adding to smoothies.

How to Prepare Dandelion Herbal Tea

Preparing a perfect herbal tea with dandelion leaves for herbal tea cut is a simple ritual: here's how to get the most out of this precious green ally:

• Dosage: 1 heaping teaspoon (2-3 g) per 250 ml of water
• Temperature: 90-95°C
• Infusion: 8-10 minutes, covering the cup
• Strain: with a fine mesh strainer
• To taste: honey, lemon, ginger, or mint
• When to drink: in the morning or before meals

Recipes with Dried Dandelion Leaves

The dandelion leaves for herbal tea cut are the stars of a culinary universe far beyond simple herbal tea. The dandelion decoction, more intense than the infusion, is obtained by boiling a tablespoon of dried leaves in 250 ml of water for 5-7 minutes. During the summer months, the cold infusion is a refreshing alternative: let the loose leaves steep in room temperature water for 6-8 hours, add a slice of lemon and a few mint leaves for an alternative drink.

In the kitchen, dandelion bread will win over even the most discerning palates: incorporate a tablespoon of dried leaves into the basic dough, adding sunflower seeds and walnuts for a rustic bread with an unmistakable flavor. For an energizing breakfast, try mixing dried dandelion leaves with yogurt, a teaspoon of honey, and dried fruit. Spring omelets are enriched with balanced bitter notes when you add a pinch of this precious ingredient, while a potato and leek soup gains character with a teaspoon of freshly crumbled dandelion leaves. Those who love to experiment can create an original pesto by replacing part of the basil with rehydrated dried dandelion, resulting in a dressing with an intriguing taste. ### How to store dandelion leaves for tea Store them in dark, airtight jars, in a dry place away from heat sources. Avoid moisture and always use dry utensils to retrieve them. Careful storage is a mindful gesture that respects the plant and its energy. ## Dandelion: botanical curiosities and nutritional values Taraxacum officinale is a perennial plant that grows everywhere, even in the poorest soils. Its flowers turn into wind-borne puffballs. The leaves contain vitamins (A, C, B group), minerals (calcium, potassium, iron), flavonoids, carotenoids, organic acids, and inulin. The plant, adaptable and phototropic, opens to the sun and closes at sunset. It blooms between April and June, with hollow stems and yellow flowers that become puffballs. The leaves grow in a rosette at the base and can reach 30 cm in diameter. ## Contraindications and side effects Consult a doctor in case of gallstones, use of diuretics or anticoagulants. Avoid if allergic to Asteraceae. Possible mild digestive disturbances. Do not use as a substitute for medical therapies. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, seek advice from your doctor. ## Buy dandelion leaves for tea at Terzaluna Discover the dandelion leaves selected by Terzaluna: harvested in Italy, processed without additives, and packaged to preserve freshness and quality. A natural ingredient for your daily teas and the most creative recipes. A simple gesture to reconnect with nature.