Dandelion Root Extract Positive Effects, Side Effects & Drug Interactions

Dandelion root extract supplements are available in powder, capsule, liquid and whole root forms. You can also purchase dandelion root teas as well as blends of this plant extract with other herbs.

The roots, leaves, stems and flowers of dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) have all been used for centuries as food and traditional medicines.

In Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, dandelions have been used as diuretics, laxatives and blood tonics. They have also been used to fortify the digestive system and detoxify the liver and kidneys.

In French, dandelions are known as pissenlit, which translates roughly to “wet the bed”. This is demonstration of its long-standing use for promoting diuresis, or urine production.

In addition to its use for gastrointestinal health and elimination of excess water retention, it has also been used to reduce inflammation. Some evidence suggests it may have weight-loss promoting effects and may influence adipogenesis as well as stomach transit times for food.

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 Root Extract Uses

The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) states that dandelion root extracts, leaves and whole plants are used in traditional medicine as diuretics, laxatives and as tonics for the skin and blood.

Other uses for dandelion root extracts include protecting against viral infections, promoting skin health, for heart failure, heartburn (dyspepsia), arthritic joints and muscle aches

Some preliminary human research suggests that dandelions might contain chemicals with anti-cancer effects. There is also evidence of potential benefits for blood-lipid levels, blood sugar regulation, hormone balance, liver health, and antibacterial effects.

In Germany, the plant is approved as a natural medicine for loss of appetite and indigestion, disturbances of bile flow and as a diuretic to increase urination.

Dandelion is a source of several active constituents including triterpenes (taraxerol, taraxasterol etc), plant sterols, the prebiotic fibre inulin and many vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.

Many different species of Taraxacum have been used in herbal medicine to promote health and well-being. However, there is limited clinical research into the potential therapeutic benefits of dandelion root extracts.

Laboratory studies and animal research suggest a number of possible mechanisms of action. But more study is needed to validate the historical uses of this plant as a natural remedy.

Dandelion Root Extract for Urinary Health

Dandelion is well-established as increasing urination frequency and volume in humans. Research shows that it can reliably act as a diuretic, which may support detoxification and kidney function.

Health Canada has approved the following medical claim for this plant: “Traditionally used in Herbal Medicine to increase the amount of urine to achieve flushing of the urinary tract as an adjuvant in minor urinary complaints.”

Preliminary research shows that this plant may be able to promote urinary tract health in women and reduce the recurrence of urinary tract infections. It was used in one study with the antibacterial herb uva ursi.

The diuretic effects of this herbal extract have been attributed to sesquiterpene lactone compounds found in the roots. In addition to reducing excess water accumulations in the body, this herb may also promote anti-inflammatory effects.

Dandelion Root for Weight Loss

Dandelion extract is sometimes included as an ingredient in weight loss supplement formulas. It is also used by bodybuilders to help them drop water weight before physique competitions.

Most of the weight loss effects attributed to this herb are believed to be temporary and to result from short-term elimination of excess fluid accumulations. Because this effect on water retention is temporary, it is unlikely to result in long-term weight loss results.

However, there is some newer research suggesting that dandelion extract may influence body fat storage, energy metabolism and nutrient absorption which can all impact weight regulation.

In a 2014 in vitro study, dandelion root and leaf extracts were found to inhibit adipogenesis. Adipogenesis is a cell differentiation process in which preadipocytes become mature adipocytes (cells that store fat).

Adipogenesis of preadipocytes was reduced following administration of a plant extracts. Researchers believe dandelion extract may affect the expression of genes and RNA that control lipid metabolism and adipogenesis.

In another human research study, lipid and triglyceride levels in the blood also significantly decreased following administration. Use of a supplement called Cinarepa for 60 days resulted in lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Based on this preliminary data, dandelions are being investigated further for their anti-obesity effects. However, there is not enough research currently available to determine whether this herb works for weight loss or not.

Dandelion Root for Cardiovascular Health

In traditional medicine practices, dandelion was used as a blood tonic and was purported to have benefits for heart health. Some early studies have looked at the effects of this plant on blood lipid levels and metrics of cardiovascular health.

Atherosclerosis (“clogged arteries”) is the primary cause of CAD (coronary artery disease) and heart disease. By decreasing fatty acids in the blood, dandelions may help to inhibit the formation of arterial plaque that causes atherosclerosis.

Dandelion root extracts have been shown to lower triglycerides in animal research.

However, this plant may not be effective for lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. In one rabbit study, dandelion root extract caused an increase in LDL-C.

In mice, injection of dandelion hydroalcoholic extract has been shown to reduce blood platelet concentrations. Due to this anti-coagulant effect, it is not recommended to combine this supplement with other drugs that influence platelet activity without first consulting with a doctor.

Dandelion and Cancer Research

Research in mice suggests that dandelion can support immune function and increase average white blood cell (WBC). There is some preliminary research that suggests dandelion may have protective effects against cancer, but more studies are required to determine efficacy.

In one human trial, dandelion root extract induced apoptosis and autophagy of leukemia cells which were resistant to other treatments. Apoptosis is the natural death of a cell and autophagy is the normal degradation and turnover of unnecessary or dysfunctional cells.

In a study from 2012, dandelion root extract induced time and dose-dependent apoptosis in cultured pancreatic cancer cells.

Researchers concluded that dandelion root shows potential as a non-toxic alternative to some commonly prescribed chemotherapy options.

However, this supplement has not been approved by the FDA as a drug for the prevention or treatment of any type of cancer. More research is required to determine whether it is effective in humans or not.

How to Take Dandelion Root

Dandelion root extract can be used as a dietary supplement in the form of oral capsules, a liquid tincture or bulk powder.

Extracts can vary in their potency. One product that sells on Amazon proves a 4:1 extract, meaning that 4 grams of raw dandelion roots are used to make 1 gram of extract. This product has a recommended serving size of 1,000 mg taken twice per day.

Several brands sell this supplement in the form of pill capsules or tablets. A common dosage is 520 mg of Taraxacum officinale root extract, taken 1 – 3 times per day.

Liquid extracts typically come in the form of alcohol-free tinctures or alcohol-based tinctures. One supplement uses an extraction rate of 560 mg per 0.7 mL serving, which is a fresh herb to menstruum ratio of 1:1.25.

This plant can also be used as a raw herb or added to salads and other foods. Research shows that consumption of 10 grams of roots and/or greens can provide a protective effect for the liver. Daily doses between 9 and 12 grams have been used to ease digestive problems.

Dandelion root extracts can be used to brew dandelion tea. Whole taproots can be dried and cut into small pieces to prepare a tea at home.

If you are making your own dandelion extract recipes, it is recommended to avoid harvesting the taproots in urban areas where they can accumulate toxic residues from environmental pollutants like pesticides.

Organic dandelion root extract tea bags are also available commercially. These are convenient and can save preparation time.

Dandelion leaves (greens), stems and flowers may also be used to brew tea. All parts of Taraxacum officinale contain plant chemicals which may have health benefits.

Dandelion Root Extract Side Effects

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, medicinal use of this plant is rated Possibly Safe. It is generally well tolerated in research studies, but more studies are needed to determine appropriateness for long-term use or at high dosages.

There are no serious side effects associated with consumption of dandelion root extracts. Allergic reactions to the pollen are possible, including contact dermatitis and anaphylaxis.

If you are allergic to other members of the Asteraceae family including ragweed, sunflower, and daisies or have an allergy to honey, chamomile, chrysanthemums, yarrow or feverfew, you may need to be cautious with using this plant.

Some people develop sores in their mouths from ingesting this herb. Some report adverse gastrointestinal side effects from taking dandelion supplements.

Precautions & Interactions

Dandelion extract products can interact with several types of prescription medications and some herbal supplements. Do not use this herb without first consulting with a doctor if you take:

• Any medications which are broken down in the liver, like P450 cytochrome substrates;
• Antidiabetic medications which lower blood glucose levels;
• Water pills (diuretics) as this may cause electrolyte imbalance;
• Blood-thinning medications like aspirin, warfarin and clopidogrel;
• Antacids as dandelions may cause increased stomach acid;
• Lithium for the treatment of manic/depressive (bipolar) and depressive disorders;
• Ciprofloxacin – dandelions may affect its absorption from the gut;

Consult with a doctor before taking this herb if you have gallstones, gallbladder problems or kidney problems. It is not recommended for those with bleeding disorders.

Be careful using dandelion products if you are allergic to plants from the Asteraceae plant family. Some members of the family include marigolds, daisies, sunflowers, zinnias, dahlias, ragweed and chrysanthemums.

Dandelions have been used in traditional medicine since before recorded history. However, there is very limited human research available to assess efficacy and safety.

If you are considering using a dandelion root extract to address a specific health goal, check with a qualified healthcare provider to determine whether this product is appropriate for you.

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