Dandelion Root Medicinal Uses, Research Review & Safety

Dandelion root has long been used in traditional medicine as a diuretic, blood tonic, laxative and as a choleretic to increase in bile production. In some natural medicine systems, dandelions have been used to treat digestive disorders, skin problems, swelling and heartburn.

Dandelions are considered invasive weeds by many people, but they are actually vegetables. Their taproots, stems, leaves and flowers contain plant chemicals which are purported to have benefits for human health.

Dandelion root and leaf extracts are said to support to improve liver, kidney and heart health. Dandelion teas and supplements are often used for detoxification and weight loss.

To this point, most evidence about the possible health benefits of dandelions comes from in-vitro (cultured cells) and animal studies. More human studies are needed to evaluate the medicinal effects of this herb.

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 Uses

The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) states that dandelion root extract has primarily been used to promote digestive health, detoxification, as a circulatory tonic and for joint pains.

In research studies, this supplement has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have also found antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial effects from using this root extract.

It is said to exhibit positive effects on the liver, gastrointestinal system, blood sugar regulation, blood lipid levels and on endocrine function.

Some people use dandelions for gallstones, cancer, heart failure, eczema, loss of appetite, bruising, flatulence and dyspepsia (heartburn). In traditional medicine, dandelion root extracts are also used to clear infections, particularly viral infections.

Currently, there is insufficient research available to rate the effectiveness of dandelions for its medicinal uses. The FDA has not approved dandelion root or leaf extracts as drugs for treating any medical conditions.

Dandelion Root for Weight Loss

Many people use dandelion root extracts to promote weight loss. However, most weight loss from dandelions results from temporary shedding of water weight. This is due to the diuretic effects of dandelions.

Consumption of dandelion root extract can increase urination frequency and volume. This means that you are excreting more water, which can help to reduce bloating and will technically result in a drop in body weight. However, no human research so far demonstrates that this supplement can promote fat loss.

Some preliminary evidence suggests that dandelion root might contribute to weight loss by inhibiting immature fat storage cells from maturing. It has been shown in laboratory studies to inhibit adipogenesis.

Adipogenesis is a process in which immature fat storage cells (called preadipocytes) develop into mature adipocytes. Decreased sizes of adipocytes can result in decreased fat mass.

Whether or not dandelion root can reduce fat mass or support a weight loss program is not yet understood. Human studies will be required to determine the efficacy of dandelions for any weight loss purposes.

Dandelion Root for Detoxification

Among its numerous duties, the liver is the body’s primary filtration organ. Dandelion root extracts might help the liver to function better, so that it can more effectively detoxify the blood.

Dandelion root has been shown to exhibit antioxidant effects. Antioxidants help the body to resist damage from free radicals, environmental pollutants and other harmful substances. Some researchers hypothesize that this mechanism of dandelion extract could help to protect the liver from oxidative damage.

In one research study, dandelion root extract was administered to mice on high-fat diets for 10 weeks. Two dosage levels were studied: 2g/kg and 5g/kg of bodyweight. Both doses appeared to reduce liver inflammation and fatty acid accumulation in the liver.

Both doses in the trial above also appeared to increase hepatic (liver) signaling of AMPK (adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase).

AMPK is an enzyme which helps to facilitate glucose uptake into cells. Cells use glucose for energy to maintain their survival and fuel cellular processes.

Proper liver function requires adequate insulin sensitivity, which can be improved by increasing AMPK signaling. This supports efficient metabolism of blood glucose to supply energy to liver cells.

Improved hepatic functioning can support detoxification of the body. By possibly reducing inflammation, protecting against oxidative damage, enhancing AMPK signaling and inhibiting fatty acid accumulations in liver cells, dandelions may support liver health.

Human studies are needed to determine the efficacy of dandelion root for improving liver health.

Dandelion Root for Depression

Some natural practitioners recommend dandelion root extracts for the management of depression. In both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, dandelions have been used to uplift the mood for many centuries.

Researchers have begun studying dandelions for possible antidepressant effects. In a single study, dandelion leaf water extract seemed to induce antidepressant effects in mice.

50 to 200 mg/kg doses reduced immobility times in treated mice after 2 weeks. These effects seemed to be related to decreased corticosterone and CRF (corticotropin releasing factor). These effects have not been studied in other animals or humans.

Dandelion Root for Cardiovascular Health

Heart disease continues to be a major cause of death around the world. Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when blood vessels become hard and narrow.

This can increase the risk of blockages, due to deposits of arterial plaque. This plaque is caused by oxidation of excessive amounts of fatty acids in the blood.

Triglycerides are the main constituents of oils and fats. When triglycerides and other fatty acid levels get too high in the blood, individuals may be at a greater risk for cardiovascular disease.

Results from animal tests suggest that dandelion root could have risk-reduction benefits for conditions like atherosclerosis (“clogged arteries”).

In mice, rabbit and pig studies, dandelion has reduced fat absorption and increased red blood cell counts. In other animal tests, it has also decreased blood platelet concentrations and helped to balance fats in the blood.

Dandelion root and leaf extracts have been found to decreased blood triglycerides in animal tests. However, only leaf extracts seem to lower LDL-C (low density lipoprotein cholesterol). In one rabbit study, administering dandelion root resulted in an increase in LDL-C.

Results from animal studies are preliminary and suggest this is an area that should be explored more in clinical trials. Human studies are needed to validate the potential cardioprotective effects of dandelion extracts.

Dandelion Root for Cancer

Dandelion root has been used to treat cancer in some traditional medicine systems. Some preliminary studies suggest that dandelion root demonstrates anti-cancer effects.

In an in-vitro study involving hepatoma (liver cancer) cells, an 8% water extract of dandelion increased apoptosis (normal cell death) by 28.7% within 24 hours. At 48 hours, apoptosis was increased in these cells by 38.8%.

It is important to note that significantly more research is needed to determine what effects dandelion extracts could have on cancerous cells in humans. Dandelion root extract has not been approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancer.

Dandelion Root Safety

The US FDA classifies dandelions as GRAS (generally regarded as safe), meaning it poses a low risk of adverse effects. NMCD states that dandelions are likely safe for consumption in amounts found commonly in foods.

There is not enough clinical evidence to rate the safety of dandelion extracts in pregnant or nursing women. Use should be avoided in these groups until more is known.

Dandelion Root Side Effects

When used topically, dandelion extracts may cause erythema multiforme (skin eruptions) and/or contact dermatitis. Supplement products that contain dandelion pollen may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Mouth sores and anaphylaxis are possible in sensitive people.

Dandelion extracts may also cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to members of the Asteraceae botanical family. Some of the plants in this family include daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds, zinnias, dahlias and ragweed.

Dandelion Root Drug Interactions

Dandelion root and leaf extracts may increase the risk of bleeding. Those with bleeding disorders should not use dandelion extract supplements without their doctors’ permissions.

Be careful if combining dandelions with herbaceous plants like turmeric, angelica, dashen, ginger, Panax ginseng, gingko, red clover and cloves. These herbs may also increase the risk of bleeding.

Do not use dandelion roots or leaves with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs – including ibuprofen, warfarin, aspirin, dalteparin, naproxen, enoxaparin, heparin, clopidogrel and/or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Seek medical advice before using dandelions with the following medications:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics like Midamor, Aldactone and Dyrenium;
• Cytochrome P450 1A2 substrates like Zofran, Haldol and Elavil;
• Glucuronidated drugs like Tylenol, estrogens and entacapone;
• Quinolone drugs like Cipro, Zagam, Noroxin and Trovan;
• Lithium;

There are no known interactions between dandelion root extract and foods. Preliminary evidence suggests that dandelions can prolong bleeding times and may interfere with certain laboratory tests.

Dandelion Root Dosage

According to the NMCD, dandelions are rated as Possibly Safe when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts. However, there is no mention of what constitutes “medicinal amounts”.

Some people have used between 9 and 12 grams daily for improving digestion. Always follow dosing instructions of dandelion root supplements you may purchase and consult with a doctor for dosage guidelines if taking this supplement for medicinal purposes.

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