How Does Dandelion Extract Work? Uses, Doses & Safety

Dandelion extract has been used in Chinese, Ayurvedic and American Indian medicine for thousands of years. Traditionally, this herbal extract was used to treat digestive disorders and infections.

Its use in Traditional Chinese Medicine dates back to the Tang Materia Medica written in 659 B.C.E. It was described for both internal and external use in the treatment of abscesses, eye inflammation and to eliminate water accumulations as a diuretic.

Dandelion root and leaf extracts are currently used for liver and kidney cleanses, weight loss, constipation and as an adaptogen to reduce inflammation.

Research shows that sesquiterpene lactones found in this plant extract possess diuretic properties. Most of the benefits associated with dandelion supplementation are attributed to its ability to increase urination volume and frequency, helping to detoxify the body.

Herbal dandelion extracts can be used in the form of liquid tinctures or oral capsules. This plant is also commonly prepared into a tea made with the roots and leaves, but not the flowers or stems.

Dandelion Root

Herbal Supplement

Liver Health

Detox

Immunity

How It Works:

• Supports liver and kidney health
• Used as a diuretic & detox supplement
• Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties

Dosage:

Varies depending on formulation

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Dandelion Extract Uses

Emerging evidence suggests that dandelions (Taraxacum officinale, Taraxacum vulgare, Leontodon taraxacum, Taraxacum dens-leonis) have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral effects.

Dandelion has long been used to stimulate bile production and flow to the intestines, supporting digestive processes, nutrient absorption and neutralization of toxins.

This plant is also being studied for potential anti-cancer, heart-protecting, liver-protecting and blood-sugar regulating effects.

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive database, this plant has been used for purported “diuretic, choleretic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anticarcinogenic, analgesic, antihyperglycemic, anticoagulatory, and prebiotic effects.”

Despite its wide range of uses in traditional medicine practices, there has not been much research into the effects of this plant on human subjects. The majority of research on dandelions in the past has involved animal and cultured cell models.

Significantly more research, especially human studies, is required to determine the efficacy of dandelions for any health-enhancing purposes.

Dandelion Extract for Detox

Many health professionals, including Dr. Mehmet Oz, recommend dandelions to support liver detox. The liver is the most important detoxification organ in the human body.

In addition to working to detoxify the blood, the liver also produces bile which contains acids that are important for digestion and absorption of fat-soluble nutrients. Bile also helps to transport waste products through the body in preparation for elimination through feces.

The liver also produces and metabolizes cholesterol, stores amino acids, vitamins, minerals and glucose, breaks down hormones, and influences many different biological functions.

Plant chemicals in dandelion extracts are believed to help the liver function better. Research shows that this herb can increase activity of detoxifying enzymes in the liver.

In one rat study, a combination of green tea extract with dandelion tea resulted in a dramatic 244% increase in the activity of a phase II detoxifying enzyme called UDP-glucuronosyl transferase. [16]

Dandelion also exhibits hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) effects. In one human research study, use of a combination supplement Cinarepa was associated with decreased total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglyceride, transaminase (AST, ALT), and gamma-GT concentrations which is suggestive of improved liver health.

When the liver is better able to function, our bodies may be better able to eliminate toxins and impurities. This may promote general well-being and immune function.

However, the practice of engaging in liver cleanses remains controversial. Some medical professionals argue that they are unnecessary because the body is able to eliminate toxins on its own without engaging in detoxification programs.

Various in-vitro and animal studies suggest that dandelion extracts can support liver health. However, more studies are required to determine whether the liver-protecting effects of dandelions can enhance human health.

Dandelion Supplements for Fat Loss

Using a dandelion extract has long been associated with weight loss due to decreased water weight, but it is not clear whether this herb can promote fat loss.

Dandelions demonstrate diuretic activities which can increase urine volume and urination frequency. It stimulates the kidneys to shed excess water weight, which can reduce inflammation, swelling and bloating.

Many people use dandelion extract supplements to help them eliminate fluid accumulations in the body. This practice is common among competitive bodybuilders before a physique competition.

While getting rid of water weight can cause your weight to temporarily go down, this effect will not facilitate long-term weight management. Your weight on the scale may temporarily decrease, but your actual body-fat composition will not be affected due to these diuretic effects.

However, there have been some recent research studies examining the potential anti-obesity effects of this plant.

In a single in-vitro study from 2014, dandelion leaf and root extracts were shown to influence the expression of various genes which control the maturation of fat storage cells (adipogenesis).

Results from this study indicate that dandelions may affect lipid metabolism, possibly providing a novel therapeutic approach to treating obesity.

Clinical research studies are required to determine whether this plant extract works for weight loss in humans.

Dandelion Pills for Bodybuilding

Many bodybuilders use diuretics to remove excess fluids and enhance the definition of their muscles. These “water pills” help to flush water that accumulates between the skin and muscles which can take away from muscle hardness and “dryness”.

However, pharmaceutical diuretics like Furosimide (Lasix) can cause harmful side effects and have been responsible for some hospitalizations and deaths in competitive bodybuilders.

Some of the potential adverse reactions to these prescription water pills include electrolyte imbalances, muscle weakness, heart arrhythmias, extreme tiredness and loss of appetite. Prescribed diuretics are also banned in most bodybuilding competitions.

Dandelion extracts are herbal diuretics that are not associated with serious side effects. They are permitted to be used in bodybuilding and other sports because they are natural and safe.

Bodybuilders will typically take dandelion supplements containing taraxacum extract with other ingredients to promote natural water loss.

One popular supplement ALLMAX Pro-Competition Series HydraDry also contains Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), potassium, calcium and magnesium, Uva Ursi, Horsetail extract, Hydrangea Root, Buchu Leaf, Parsley Leaf extracts and Decaffeinated Green Tea.

Dandelion for Skin Benefits

Accumulations of toxins in the blood and tissues can cause various skin disorders including inflammation. By naturally increasing urination, dandelions help to flush toxins from the body.

According to traditional medicine practices, this is purported to improve skin health and may help to prevent and/or treat conditions including acne, eczema, dark spots and blemishes.

Inflammatory skin conditions are the most common problems in dermatology. Some phytonutrients in dandelions demonstrate anti-inflammatory activities.

Antioxidants in dandelion extract and may protect the skin by decreasing damage from food toxins, environmental pollutants and free radicals.

This plant is a source of Vitamins C, A, B6 and K, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorous which are purported to promote healthy skin.

The sap or “milk” from dandelion is purported to possess antimicrobial, antifungal and insecticidal properties. It is used topically in herbal medicine for itching, eczema, athlete’s foot, ringworm, warts and other conditions which affect skin health.

Dandelion contains high alkaline levels, which can prevent skin infections and promote a healthy pH balance on the skin. It is also believed to increase sweating and promote widening of skin pores, which may help to flush out toxins trapped in pores.

Many skin care products contain dandelion extracts and essential oils. It is also sometimes included in hair products and is believed to support healthy hair growth as well as follicle function. Dandelion contains Choline, Iron and Biotin which are important for healthy hair. [17]

Dandelion Extract for Digestion

Dandelion is approved by the German Commission E for the treatment of mild stomach discomfort as well as loss of appetite. It has a long record of use in traditional medicine for the alleviation of dyspepsia (indigestion).

Dandelion extracts are high in dietary fiber, which can support digestive function as well as the elimination of toxins from the gastrointestinal tract.

Fiber attaches to toxins in the digestive tract, and then helps to remove them from the body during excretion. Many people use dandelion as a laxative to relieve mild constipation.

Dandelion also contain a certain type of fiber called inulin, which acts as a prebiotic. Prebiotics are substrates that promote the growth of probiotic bacterial species.

Inulin is a non-digestible polysaccharide called a fructan. Inulin increases the population of beneficial bacteria like bifidobacterial and lactobacillus colonies.

As a prebiotic supplement, dandelion is being explored for its potential roles in diabetes, obesity, weight loss and immunity. However, most forms of dandelion extracts will contain low levels of inulin. Use of dietary supplements containing raw dandelion root powder may be better for supporting digestive health.

Dandelion Extract for Cancer

Some researchers are investigating the anti-cancer effects of dandelion extracts. NMCD states that researchers have reported antineoplastic properties of dandelion, meaning this plant may inhibit or prevent the development of tumors.

In lab and animal studies, dandelion extracts have selectively increased apoptosis (natural death) in some types of tumor cells. At the University of Windsor in Canada, researchers have initiated human trial to assess dandelion’s effects on end-stage blood cancers.

It has been shown to promote selective apoptosis and autophagy in human pancreatic cancer cells and leukemia cells. It also appears to have antiproliferative, protective, and antioxidant effects, based on in vitro research.

There is insufficient research available to determine whether dandelion supplementation will influence cancer risk in humans. This plant has not been approved by the FDA as a drug for the prevention or treatment of cancer or any other health condition.

Dandelion Extract Dosage

There is no typical dosage recommendation for dandelion extract and concentrations of extracts can vary depending on method of preparation.

Doses between 9 and 12 grams daily of raw dandelion root are commonly used in traditional medicine. According to the American Botanical Council, “Fresh dandelion root or leaf may be eaten as food at up to 50 g or more/d.” [18]

Dandelion root extract capsules sold on Amazon typically provide 500 – 600 mg per pill. One product recommends three capsules of 525 mg taken daily for a suggested dosage of 1,575 mg.

One liquid extract provides 2,000 mg per serving of 2 mL or 56 drops. The manufacturer recommends taking one serving up to three times per day.

Always follow dosing recommendations on the dandelion extract product you purchase and consult with a physician to determine the appropriate usage for your needs.

The US FDA classifies dandelions as GRAS (generally regarded as safe) foods. This means it is generally well tolerated and is unlikely to cause serious adverse reactions.

Although dandelion is not associated with serious side effects, it may interact with certain medications and herbal supplements. Do not combine dandelion extracts with blood thinners, lithium, potassium-sparing diuretics, glucuronidated drugs and/or drugs that get broken down by the liver.

It is best to discuss the use of any dietary supplement with a doctor who knows your health history before beginning.

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