Dandelion Medicinal Uses – Is this Herbal Remedy Effective or Not?

Dandelion uses in traditional medicine include promoting liver and kidney function, reducing inflammation and eliminating excess water retention.

Although many think of this plant as an invasive weed, dandelion has been used as an herbal remedy for thousands of years. It was first mentioned in the Chinese pharmacopoeia, the Tang Materia Medica in 659 B.C.E.

The Latin name of the plant Taraxacum officinale translates roughly to “disease remedy”. In herbal medicine practices, it is attributed with a wide range of preventative and curative properties.

Other common uses for dandelion leaves and roots include stomach upset, detoxifying the blood, healing abscesses and stimulating lactation (milk production).

As a dietary supplement, this plant is commonly taken to support weight loss, appetite, detox cleanses, and as an antioxidant supplement. It is also used to support urinary tract health in women.

Research also shows that it has laxative effects and can promote healthy bowel function.

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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Common Dandelion Uses

Dandelion has been used as medicine by Native American healers, as well as in TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) and Ayurveda (conventional Hindu medicine).

Traditional European doctors also used dandelion historically as a remedy for diabetes, vision problems, fever, diarrhea and boils.

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD), dandelion has also been used for:

• Joint pain including pain from arthritis;
• Stimulating bile production;
• Urinary tract infections;
• Loss of appetite and as a digestive bitter;
• Viral and bacterial infections;
• Muscle aches and pain;
• Heart failure;
• Gallstones;
• Flatulence;
• Tonsillitis;
• Bruises;
• Cancer;

Dandelion is also used as a diuretic, laxative, blood tonic, skin toner and digestive tonic. Further, it is used as a culinary ingredient in salad, soup, wine and tea. Roasted dandelion root is used popularly as a substitute for coffee.

Despite its wide-ranging uses in traditional medicine, there has been very limited research into the health benefits of this plant in human. Some of the traditional uses are supported by research while most others lack clinical evidence to validate claims.

Nutrients in Dandelion Extract

Many of the positive effects linked to consumption of dandelion leaf and root are attributed to their sesquiterpene lactone content. These compounds are purported to exert anti-inflammatory effects and have been studied for their effects on cancer.

This herb also contains phenylpropanoids and triterpenoid saponins which may exhibit inflammation-modulating and adaptogenic effects.

Dandelion is a rich source of a number of nutrients and minerals including zinc, iron and magnesium. It also contains vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D and K.

The roots and leaves of the plant contain several active phytonutrients (plant chemicals) including chlorogenic acid, quercetin, luteolin and chicoric acid.

Dandelion leaves contain unique phytochemicals including scopoletin, aesculin, faradiol and arnidiol.

The roots are a source of taraxasterol, caffeic acid and taraxacoside as well as a polysaccharide called lutein.

Dandelion is a source of potassium, an important nutrient that many people are deficient in. However, the amounts contained in the plant are too small to be therapeutically relevant.

Scientific Evidence for Dandelion Use

Most of the research that has been performed on dandelion has involved in vitro studies and animal subjects. Some human studies have been conducted in recent years, but more trials are needed to confirm initial findings.

Despite this, its long record of traditional use is presumed to provide some evidence of efficacy. The German Commission E has approved the use of this herb for edema, anorexia, dyspepsia, biliary abnormalities and as a diuretic.

Preliminary research suggests that dandelion might reduce swelling and normalize inflammation in the body. The apparent anti-inflammatory effects of dandelion seem to stem from the suppression of COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase. [2]

Research in rats suggests that dandelion aqueous extracts may inhibit production of certain inflammation-causing signaling molecules in cells called cytokines. Examples of such cytokines include TNF-alpha (tumor necrosis factor alpha) and IL-6 (interleukin-6). [3]

Inflammatory diseases are one of the most prevalent causes of death. The drugs commonly used to reduce inflammation are associated with various side effects, especially gastrointestinal side effects.

According to research, these side effects “may be contributing to the current move by large proportion of world population towards herbal remedies for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.” [1]

Studies have also shown that dandelion in combination with other herbs can improve indigestion and related gastrointestinal (GI) issues in patients with colitis. Use of this herbal remedy produced a significant improvement in pain and stool normalization. [10]

In another study, use of dandelion with other herbs was shown to improve hormone balance in premenopausal women. Results showed it reduced early follicular-phase androgens without interfering with levels of other sex hormones, suggesting a role as a hormone detoxifier. [10]

Other preliminary research on dandelion use suggests that it might:

• Possess leukotriene-inhibiting activity; [4]
• Increase secretion of insulin; [5]
• Induce diuretic activity; [6]
• Induce antioxidant and cytotoxic effects on cancer cells; [7]
• Enhance immune system function; [8]

An oligofructan in dandelion root called inulin is also believed to support the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria colonies known as probiotics.

One study reported that ingestion of a dandelion root product increased the growth of bifidobacteria in the gut. This plant extract may be useful as a prebiotic. [9]

Dandelion is approved as a natural medicine by Health Canada and by the German E Commission. However, it has not been approved as a drug for the prevention or treatment of any medical conditions by the US Food and Drug Administration.

More research is required to determine the efficacy of this plant for any therapeutic purposes in humans.

Dandelion Extract Side Effects

According to NMCD, dandelion is rated Likely Safe when used in amounts commonly found in foods. As a culinary ingredient, it has Generally Recognized As Safe status (GRAS) in the United States.

When used as a medicinal agent, it is rated Possibly Safe. While the currently available research suggests that it is well tolerated, more research is required to determine its safety for long-term use or at higher dosages.

Most people experience no adverse effects from using dandelion supplements or consuming teas made from this herb. However, like all herbs this plant can produce side effects in some users.

In a small number of cases, mouth sores have been reported from consuming this plant extract. Some users experience allergic reactions, increased stomach acid and/or heartburn after taking this product

Avoid using dandelion if you are allergic to marigold, chamomile, chrysanthemum, ragweed, yarrow, daisies or other members of the Asteraceae botanical family.

People with gallstones, gallbladder disorders and/or kidney problems should seek medical advice before taking this supplement.

Medication Interactions

Dandelion extracts can cause diuretic effects, leading to increased frequency and volume of urination. This can make certain prescription medications exit the body faster and may reduce their effectiveness.

Dandelion can also interact with medications which are broken down inside the liver. Some examples of drugs that this supplement may interact with include antacids, blood thinners, diuretics, lithium, ciprofloxacin and antidiabetic medications including insulin.

If you are currently taking prescription drugs or have been diagnosed with any medical conditions, consult with a doctor before using dandelion. This natural plant remedy may not be appropriate for everyone to use.

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