18 Benefits of Dandelion Backed by Science

1. One of the most effective toxin removers (blood, lymph and liver cleanser)

2. Highly nutritious

Dandelion is a source of fibres and vitamins A, C, K, E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins. It provides minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium.

3. Dandelion are full of antioxidants

Antioxidants are molecules that help neutralize or prevent the negative effects of free radicals in your body. In addition, antioxidant capabilities can prevent aging and certain diseases.

4. Boosts immune system

Studies have found that dandelion extract has an antiviral and antimicrobial effect, thus, making it an antibacterial agent.

5. May fight against HIV

Studies have demonstrated that dandelion extract powerfully acts against HIV-1.

6. Promotes liver function and is an excellent liver cleanser

Animal studies have found that dandelion has a protective effect on liver tissue in the presence of toxic substances and stress. The results of the Studies have also indicated, that this plant may represent a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of obesity-related nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

7. May help fight inflammation

Inflammation is one of your body’s natural responses to illness. However, excessive inflammation can lead to permanent damage to your body’s tissues and DNA. Studies have revealed that dandelion can be an anti-inflammatory agent.

8. May help to treat anemia

Because of its high iron and zinc content, it is used to support the treatment of anemia.

9. Support the treatment of chronic ulcers, joint stiffness and tuberculosis

10. May help to control blood sugar and type 2 diabetes

Chicoric and chlorogenic acid are two bioactive compounds in dandelion which may help reduce blood sugar.

11. Dandelion are used as a diuretic, for increasing the production of urine

12. May lower blood pressure

Dandelion may lower blood pressure due to their diuretic effect and potassium content.

13. May reduce cholesterol

Some of the bioactive compounds in this plant may lower cholesterol, which may decrease heart disease risk.

14. Relieves the body of excess heat

15. May help to lose weight

Some researchers theorize that dandelion’s ability to improve carbohydrate metabolism and reduce fat absorption may lead to weight loss. However, this notion needs further studies.

16. Kills cancer cells

Other test-tube studies have shown that dandelion root extract has the capacity to dramatically slow the growth of cancer cells in liver, colon and pancreatic tissue.

17. Supports bile secretion, healthy digestion and fights constipation

One animal study revealed a significant increase in the rates of stomach contractions and emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine in rats who were treated with dandelion extract.

Eating Green Vegetables and Drinking Dandelion Tea Will Strengthen Your Health

For example, dandelion roots and stems help fight diabetes. It`s because they stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin, which in turn stabilizes the blood sugar level.

If you have digestive problems or you need to get rid of toxins, the dandelion tea may be exactly what your doctor prescribes as a herbal remedy. The liver produces bile in the digestive system and also filters blood from chemicals and other impurities. According to Dr. Ax, vitamins and minerals found in this plant help to cleanse and maintain the liver.

Parts Used

Dandelion leaves act as a diuretic, increasing the amount of urine your body makes. The leaves are used to stimulate the appetite and help digestion. Dandelion flower has antioxidant properties. Dandelion may also help improve the immune system.

Herbalists use dandelion root to detoxify the liver and gallbladder, and dandelion leaves to help kidney function.

Medicinal Uses and Indications

Most scientific studies of dandelion have been in animals, not people. Traditionally, dandelion has been used as a diuretic, to increase the amount of urine and eliminate fluid in your body. It has been used for many conditions where a diuretic might help, such as liver problems and high blood pressure. However, there is no good research on using dandelion as a diuretic in people.

Fresh or dried dandelion herb is also used as a mild appetite stimulant, and to improve upset stomach. The root of the dandelion plant may act as a mild laxative and has been used to improve digestion. Preliminary research suggests that dandelion may help improve liver and gallbladder function. But this study was not well designed.

Preliminary animal studies suggest that dandelion may help normalize blood sugar levels and lower total cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL (good) cholesterol in diabetic mice. But not all the animal studies have found a positive effect on blood sugar. Researchers need to see if dandelion will work in people.

A few animal studies also suggest that dandelion might help fight inflammation.

Available Forms

You can find dandelion herbs and roots fresh or dried in a variety of forms, including tinctures, liquid extract, teas, tablets, and capsules. Dandelion can be found alone or combined with other dietary supplements.

How to Take it

Pediatric

Ask your doctor before giving dandelion supplements to a child so the doctor can determine the dose.

Adult

Ask your doctor to help determine the right dose for you.

Precautions

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. However, herbs can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs under the supervision of a health care provider.

Dandelion is generally considered safe. Some people may have an allergic reaction from touching dandelion. Others may get mouth sores.

If you are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigold, chamomile, yarrow, daisies, or iodine, you should avoid dandelion.

In some people, dandelion can cause increased stomach acid and heartburn. It may also irritate the skin.

People with kidney problems, gallbladder problems, or gallstones should consult their doctors before eating dandelion.

Possible Interactions

Dandelion leaf may act as a diuretic, which can make drugs leave your body faster. It also interacts with a number of medications that are broken down by the liver. If you are taking prescription medications, ask your doctor before taking dandelion leaf. Medications that may interact with dandelion include:

Antacids: Dandelion may increase the amount of stomach acid, so antacids may not work as well.

Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants and antiplatelets): It is possible that dandelion may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you already take blood thinners such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), or clopidogrel (Plavix).

Diuretics (water pills): Dandelion may act as a diuretic, causing your body to produce more urine to get rid of excess fluid. If you also take prescription diuretics, or other herbs that act as diuretics, you could be at risk of electrolyte imbalances.

Lithium: Lithium is used to treat bipolar disorder. Animal studies suggest that dandelion may worsen the side effects of lithium.

Ciproflaxin (Cipro): One species of dandelion, Taraxacum mongolicum, also called Chinese dandelion, may lower the amount of the antibiotic ciproflaxin that your body absorbs. Researchers do not know whether the common dandelion would do the same thing.