Organic Dandelion Root Tea Bags Effects & Safety [Research Review]

Organic dandelion root tea bags made by Traditional Medicinals are a convenient way to prepare dandelion tea at home.

According to the manufacturer, this tea “is a gentle, soothing way to help your digestive health and get back to normal.” It is a slightly bitter herb, recommended as part of a detox routine.

Each tea bag contains 1.5 grams of organic roasted dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale). This naturally caffeine-free tea can be consumed up to three times per day.

Organic dandelion extracts have been used in traditional medicine to promote diuresis, detoxifying the blood and as a digestive tonic.

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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Organic Dandelion Root Tea Bags

There has not been a lot of human research on the effects of drinking dandelion tea. However, preliminary results from animal research suggests potential benefits.

The root, leaf, stem and flower of dandelion all contain various phytonutrients (plant chemicals) which may support general well-being.

Dandelion is of particular interest to researchers because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

According to a research review, “Dandelion contains a wide array of phytochemicals whose biological activities are actively being explored in various areas of human health.” [1]

The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) states that dandelion roots and leaves are a source of:

• P-hydroxyphenylacetic acid;
• Monocaffeyltartaric acid;
• Germacranolide acids;
• Chlorogenic acid;
• Chicoric acid;
• Quercetin;
• Luteolin;
• Potassium;

Dandelion root contains certain beneficial compounds that are not found in the leaves. According to NMCD, these include caffeic acid, taraxacoside and taraxasterol. [3]

The roots of this herb also contain significant amount of inulin, a prebiotic fibre also known as a polysaccharide.

Common uses for organic dandelion root tea bags include reducing water retention in the body by increasing the production of urine inside the kidneys (diuresis).

Research has reported various other mechanisms of action including “choleretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-coagulatory and prebiotic effects.” [2]

Dandelion Root Tea for Weight Loss

Many people use organic dandelion root tea to help them lose weight by eliminating of fluid accumulations in the body. While this is not effective as a long-term weight reduction strategy, it can help to kick-start a diet and temporarily relieve bloating.

In one clinical research study, dandelion was shown to increase urine production and urination frequency in all subjects. [4]

As a diuretic, it can temporarily promote the excretion of fluids. Competitive bodybuilders will sometimes drink this tea before a competition to help them shed water weight.

Constituents found in the roots and leaves of this plant may also have anti-obesity effects, but more research is needed to determine benefits in humans.

According to a 2014 in vitro study, dandelion was shown to inhibit the maturation of new fat storage cells in the body called adipocytes.

This maturation process is called adipogenesis. By inhibiting adipogenesis, dandelion may be able to limit the amount of fat tissue the body accumulates.

The researchers reported that, “the dandelion extracts used in this study may play a significant role during adipogenesis and lipid metabolism, and thus, supporting their therapeutic interest as potential candidates for the treatment of obesity.” [5]

Anti-Cancer Investigations

Online sources like Dr. Axe claim that compounds found in dandelion extract are “effective as a natural cancer treatment, including reducing the risk of prostate, colon, stomach, nasal and oral cancers.”

However, there is not enough research currently available to support this claim. Preliminary studies have demonstrated potential anti-cancer effects, but there is no research available to evaluate how it may influence cancer risk in humans.

Research published in 2016 by the University of Windsor in Canada reported the following about a specific dandelion root aqueous extract (DRE):

• DRE induced selective programmed cell death (apoptosis) in more than 95% of colon cancer cells within 48 hours of treatment;
• Anticancer potential of DRE in several in-vitro cancer cell lines;
• No toxicity to noncancerous cells;

In another study, this dandelion root extract solution, “retarded the growth of human colon xenograft models by more than 90%.”

While dandelion root shows promise as an anticancer agent, more research is required to determine whether it works in humans.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer or have a family history of the disease, consult with your oncologist to determine whether natural medicines are appropriate for you or not.

Traditional Uses

In traditional medicine, dandelions have been used for a wide range of additional health conditions.

According to NMCD, dandelion has been used traditionally for dyspepsia, joint and muscle aches, bruises, rheumatism, heart failure, poor appetite, heartburn, flatulence, gallstones and stimulating bile secretion.

Other uses for dandelion include treating viral infections, alleviating pain from arthritis and improving skin conditions like eczema and acne. The herb is also used as a laxative, skin toner, circulation tonic and digestive system elixir.

While this herb has many used in herbal medicine practices, it has not been approved by the FDA as a drug for the prevention or treatment of any medical conditions.

Side Effects & Interactions

Roasted organic dandelion root tea is generally well tolerated and does not cause side effects in the majority users.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, dandelion is a Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) food. NMCD states that when taken in common dietary amounts it is rated Likely Safe.

NMCD states that some people experience allergic reactions to dandelion, as well as to other members of the Asteraceae/Compositae botanical family. Some of these include marigold, ragweed, zinnia and daisy.

Drugs.com states that dandelion may cause stomach discomfort in sensitive individuals. Do not use this herb if you have been diagnosed with a duct or intestinal blockage.

Drinking dandelion root tea might cause interactions with certain types of drugs, and/or some health conditions. Talk to a doctor before using this tea if you take any of the following medications:

• Cytochrome P450 CYP1A2 substrates;
• Antiplatelets, anticoagulants;
• Potassium-sparing diuretics;
• Glucuronidated drugs;
• Quinolone antibiotics;
• Antidiabetic drugs;
• Lithium;

Seek medical advice before using this product if you have a bleeding disorder, renal impairment or diabetes. Stop using organic dandelion root tea at least 2 weeks before scheduled surgeries.

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