Dandelion: Benefits, Side-Effects, Supplements, Uses, And Capsules

Originally from Europe, dandelion is now widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere’s temperate zones and recognized for its numerous health benefits. According to research, the plant contains chemicals that may help reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, inflammation, body mass, and cancer risk. Dandelion also has high concentrations of antioxidants and polyphenols, which aid in scavenging and neutralizing damage-causing free radicals.

The dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a member of the Asteraceae (Compositae) family, native to Europe. The plant’s parts are routinely consumed in numerous areas of the world and used in phytotherapy. Dandelions include a diverse range of phytochemicals, which are the biological activities currently being investigated in various fields of human health research. Furthermore, accumulating data suggests that the plant and its compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, resulting in different biological implications.

Dandelions are widely recognized as invasive weeds in lawns and gardens. They are also used in teas, culinary greens, and traditional medicine. The herb is a good candidate for latex production because of its close relationship with the Russian dandelion (Taraxacum kok-saghyz), farmed as a rubber crop.

 

What Are The Benefits Of Dandelion?

Dandelions include chemicals that may help prevent health problems and are high in nutrients. According to research, dandelion has the following benefits.

1. Providing Antioxidants

Dandelion contains a high concentration of powerful antioxidants, which may account for many of its therapeutic effects. Antioxidants aid in neutralizing free radicals, which are molecules produced as a byproduct of regular metabolism but can increase the risk of developing chronic diseases if their levels become too high. Antioxidants are essential for maintaining overall health. Dandelions have significant concentrations of the antioxidant beta carotene (11,000 µg/100 g leaves, the same as in carrots). This may help protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals. Another form of antioxidant, known as polyphenols, is abundant in dandelions as well. Polyphenols are found primarily in the flowers, roots, leaves, and stems.

2. Reducing Cholesterol

Certain chemicals found in dandelion may reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels, which are important risk factors for heart disease. A test-tube experiment found an extract of dandelion leaf and root reduced triglyceride formation in fat cells. Dandelion extracts have been shown to have anti-adipogenic properties in mature adipocytes. According to a study published in the Medical Sciences journal by García-Carrasco et al., adipocytes that have undergone differentiation and maturation had less fat formation when dandelion extracts were used. These natural extracts have the potential to be employed as a readily available source of natural antioxidants that have demonstrable impacts on adipocyte biochemistry. Further research into the specific mechanism of their biological effects and anti-obesity benefits in vivo is required.

3. Regulating Blood Sugar

Several bioactive chemicals such as chicoric and chlorogenic acid found in dandelion have lowered blood sugar levels in animal and test-tube experiments. These constituents have significant potential as anti-diabetic medicines and nutraceuticals for the treatment and management of diabetes. A review by Wirngo et al. found that dandelion extracts may promote the release of insulin from pancreatic beta-cells, which can counter the consequences of hyperglycemia. The insulinoma cells (INS-1E cells) discovered in rats, on the other hand, were proven to be active in the production of insulin. The insulinoma cells were administered a dried ethanolic extract (40 g/ml) of Taraxacum officinale in the context of high glucose, with glibenclamide (an anti-diabetic medication) serving as a positive control. When INS-1E cells were exposed to normal glucose, the investigators discovered a considerable increase in insulin secretion.

4.  Reducing Inflammation

Dandelion may reduce inflammation because of chemicals such as polyphenols. Inflammation is a typical immune system response to an injury or infection. On the other hand, long-term inflammation can cause lasting damage to your body’s tissues and DNA. Some test-tube experiments have discovered that cells treated with compounds derived from dandelion have considerably reduced signs of inflammation.

PI3K/Akt was identified as the upstream signaling molecule involved in the control of NFjB and Nrf2 activity, according to the researchers’ results. Furthermore, the decreased expression of iNOS (inducible nitric oxide synthase) and (TNF-a tumor necrosis factor) in RAW 264.7 cells was associated with the rise in HO-1 (heme oxygenase) protein expression generated by TOP (Taraxacum officinale polysaccharide) treatment. The RAW 264.7 cells resemble monocytes/macrophages in that they can execute pinocytosis and phagocytosis. As a result, this investigation provides evidence that polysaccharides derived from Taraxacum officinale have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, indicating that the herb could be used as a viable nutraceutical ingredient.

 

 

5. Lowering Blood Pressure

Because of its diuretic function, dandelion has been used in traditional herbal therapy to detoxify many organs. In addition, diuretic medicines are used in Western medicine to rid the body of excess fluid, which may aid in the reduction of blood pressure. A study by Clare et al. as published in The Journal Of Alternative And Complementary Medicine, reveals that an ethanolic extract of fresh Taraxacum officinale leaf (1 g:1 mL) enhances the frequency of fluid excretion and the excretion ratio of fluids in healthy human participants. As a result of these findings, additional in-depth investigations are necessary.

6. Aiding Weight Loss

According to some studies, dandelions and their components may benefit weight loss. Researchers believe that dandelion’s capacity to boost carbohydrate metabolism while decreasing fat absorption may contribute to this benefit. On the other hand, this theory has not yet been scientifically confirmed. One study in mice also suggested that dandelion extract may help with weight management by lowering fat absorption, according to Aabideen et al. as per the Molecules journal. The in vivo experiments demonstrated that obese mice given a 300 mg/kg body weight dose of 60% Taraxacum officinale leaf extract experienced significant improvements in their lipid profiles and blood biochemistry. Because of its vast biological qualities, Taraxacum officinale can be used as a possible candidate for the naturopathic approach to obesity management and the production of functional foods with natural properties.

7. Reducing Cancer Risk

Dandelion extract has been found to inhibit the growth of malignant cells in several organ systems. According to Nassan et al. as per the Bioscience Reports journal, the administration of dandelion root extract in rats for four weeks indicated that it altered particular pathways involved in reducing the growth and spread of breast cancer cells.

Rehman et al. of the Frontiers In Pharmacology journal discovered that the drug MEDr (500 g/mL) has a significant impact on the proliferation of the HepG2 cell line. Furthermore, the MEDr (methanolic extracts of the dandelion root) also increased the phosphorylation level of AMPK in HepG2 cells, which is thought to be important in treating cancer and other metabolic illnesses, including diabetes. Their findings indicated the effectiveness of MEDr in the treatment of liver cancer, as well as evidence that dandelion could inhibit AMPK and, consequently, cancer in the treated cell lines.

8. Boosting The Immune System

It has been suggested in some studies that dandelion may have antibiotic and antiviral properties, which may help boost the immune system. In addition, several test-tube investigations have discovered that dandelion extract has a considerable impact on the ability of viruses to proliferate. According to Jia et al. of the Molecular Medicine Reports journal, when TME (Taraxacum mongolicum extract) was subjected to phytochemical and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, it contained a significant amount of phenolic and flavonoid components, including caffeic acid and luteolin-7-O-D-glucopyranoside. These flavonoid and phenolic compounds have a variety of pharmacological activities and antioxidant properties.

9. Aiding Digestion

Dandelion is frequently used in traditional medicine to alleviate constipation and aid digestion. According to a previous animal study by Jin et al. of the Neurogastroenterology & Motility journal, rats fed with dandelion extract had significantly higher stomach contractions and emptying rates than those not given the extract. Aside from being a rich source of the prebiotic fiber inulin, dandelion root has also been found to help relieve constipation and facilitate the passage of food through the digestive tract. 

10. Keeping Skin Healthy

Animal and test-tube studies reveal that dandelion extract may help keep skin healthy. In one study, dandelion leaf and flower extracts reduced skin damage when applied shortly before or soon after exposure to UVB radiation. Interestingly, dandelion root did not have the same impact. In a study by Yang et al. as per Oxidative Medicine And Cellular Longevity journal, dandelion leaf and flower extracts reduced skin damage when applied shortly before or soon after exposure to UVB radiation. Interestingly, dandelion root did not have the same impact. H2O2-induced biological mortality in HDFs (human dermal fibroblasts) by decreasing ROS production and MMP ((matrix metalloproteinases) activity and helping UVB absorption. It also helps in H2O2-induced biological mortality in HDFs by reducing ROS (reactive oxygen species) production and MMP activity and allowing UVB absorption.

 

What Are The Risks (Side-Effects) Of Dandelion?

Dandelion plants have a low toxicity level and are probably harmless to most individuals, particularly when ingested as food. However, this plant may induce allergic reactions, especially in people with sensitivities to similar species such as ragweed. Contact dermatitis may also develop in those sensitive to similar species. According to a 2013 assessment by Posadzki et al. in the British Journal Of Clinical Pharmacology, dandelion may also interact with pharmaceuticals, including certain anticoagulants, antibiotics, and diabetic medications. Consult a healthcare expert before taking dandelion if you’re on any prescription medications.

 

How Does Dandelion Work Within The Human Body?

The research performed on dandelions involved experimental animal studies and some human studies and cell cultures. However, no clinical data are available for the purported benefits of dandelion in preventing and managing illnesses. Dandelion has traditionally been used as a diuretic to promote urine production and remove fluid from the body. It’s been used to treat various diseases that could benefit from a diuretic, including liver issues and high blood pressure. However, there is no evidence that dandelion can be used as a diuretic in humans.

For such a common herb, well-designed human research is surprisingly rare. Nevertheless, various in vitro and in vivo studies have verified its therapeutic potential validating the long history of dandelion as folk medicine.

How Do You Determine The Correct Dandelion Dosage?

There are no defined dosage guidelines, as minimal human studies have been conducted. However, existing evidence supports the following amounts for different types of dandelion.

Dried leaves: 4–10 grams daily

Fresh leaves: 4–10 grams daily

Leaf tincture: 0.4–1 teaspoon (2–5 mL) three times daily

Fresh leaf juice: 1 teaspoon (5 mL) twice daily

Fluid extract: 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 mL) daily

Fresh roots: 2–8 grams daily

Dried powder: 250–1,000 mg four times daily

 

What Are The Most Common Questions For Dandelion Usage?

To better understand its uses and benefits, we will answer the most common questions about dandelion usage.

What Are The Facts About Dandelion?

The facts about dandelion are based on real-world knowledge and observations about the plant. The dandelion makes the only flower depicting three celestial bodies during different times of its life cycle, the sun, moon, and stars. The dandelion’s yellow blossoms resemble the sun, their seeds are like stars, and their puffballs are like moons.

The plant’s roots, leaves, and blooms are all valuable. Its uses include dye for coloring, food, and medicinal purpose. Dandelion seeds can be carried away up to 5 kilometers from their origin. Its bloom has a yellow-orange color, and numerous separate and small flowers called florets that open during the daybreak and close at night.

Several species of insects pollinate dandelions. The yellow blossom of the plant becomes a puffball that comprises several fruits called achenes. The seeds possess a disk-like extension, which acts as a parachute and aids wind dispersion. Butterflies, insects, and birds consume the seeds or nectar of dandelions.

Consuming or touching dandelion can lead to allergic reactions for certain people. However, the plant’s pollen is generally too large to cause allergies, but the milky sap (latex) it contains may cause contact dermatitis. In folk medicine, dandelions are used for treating liver diseases and infections. In addition, tea prepared from dandelion functions as a diuretic. Dandelions are also termed pioneer plants or ruderals, the first plants to colonize any disturbed grounds.

How Is Dandelion Processed?

Dandelion processing refers to the methods needed to manufacture a delivery form of the herb. In this context, dandelion leaves are primarily used in manufacturing health supplement goods.

Leaves: Harvesting dandelion leaves is best done in the early spring when they are still fragile despite the plant’s rapid growth. Use garden shears or pluck them by hand. Cover the plant with a dark piece of fabric before cutting the leaves to blanch them and reduce any bitterness that may be present.

Flowers: Dandelion plants bloom and produce flower heads that can be harvested by hand when they have finished blooming. Although flower heads are easily picked, they do not clean up properly. Make an effort to select flowers that are dust and debris-free. When choosing flowers, make sure that they are freshly opened, and all petals are still present. Put the stems in a bowl of cool water to keep them looking fresh.

Roots: Dandelion roots can be harvested at any time of year. It may be required to use a hand digging instrument to avoid fracturing the taproot during the removal process. The roots must be washed and finely chopped before being dried in a food dehydrator or a low-heat oven. Increase the heat from low to medium and slowly roast them until nicely browned. Keep them in a cold, dry location and use them to make a nutritious tea whenever you need it.

 

What Is The Nutritional Profile Of Dandelion?

Dandelions are nutrient-dense plants that contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from root to blossom. You can eat dandelion greens cooked or raw, and they are rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Dandelion greens are also a good source of iron and contain modest levels of vitamin E, folate, and B vitamins in small amounts. Furthermore, dandelion greens include many elements, like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, making them a healthy addition to any diet. 

The USDA Food Data Center reports that a 100g of dandelion contains the following:

Protein -2.7g

Fat- 0.7g

Carbohydrate- 9.2g

Fiber- 3.5g

Calcium- 187mg

Iron- 3.1mg

Magnesium- 36mg

Phosphorus- 66mg

Potassium- 397mg

Sodium- 76mg

Zinc- 0.41mg

Copper- 0.171mg

Manganese-0.342mg

Selenium- 0.5µg

Vitamin C- 35mg

Thiamin- 0.19mg

Riboflavin- 0.26mg

Niacin – 0.806mg

Pantothenic acid- 0.084mg

Vitamin B6- 0.251mg

Folate- 27µg

Folate- 27µg

Choline- 35.3mg

Vitamin A- 508µg

Bata-carotene- 5850µg

Vitamin E- 3.44mg

What Are The Supplement Forms Of Dandelion?

Dandelion is typically sold as a powder but is also available in capsules, pills, and liquids. Supplements are accessible in drugstores and vitamin supplement stores. The following are the different supplement forms of the plant.

1. Dandelion Extract

Dandelion extract is a medicinal extract employed in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Fresh or dried plants and roots, tinctures, liquid extracts, teas, tablets, and capsules are all popular methods to consume dandelion extract. It is usually combined with another vitamin, such as vitamin C. 

Why Is Dandelion Extract Useful?

Dandelion extract is beneficial because it can improve liver and gallbladder functionality and is a natural diuretic and laxative.

 

 

2. Dandelion Supplement

Dandelion is frequently sold as a supplement. A healthcare expert, such as a registered dietitian, nutritionist, pharmacist, or doctor, should evaluate and approve its use. Beta-carotene, Artemetin, Caffeic Acid, Quercetin, Luteolin, and Retinol are just a few active compounds found in dandelion supplements. Some dandelion supplement manufacturing companies are Herb Pharm, Gaia Herbs, Vitazan Pro, and Wise Woman Herbals.

3. Dandelion Powder

The finely ground dandelion powder is made from the plant’s chemically unprocessed leaves, flowers, and roots that contain no additives. In China, Mexico, and North America, dandelion root powder has been used in traditional medicine. Tea, wine, soups, and mixed greens all include dandelion powder. The root is occasionally boiled to create a caffeine-free espresso. In addition, sugar inulin, a type of soluble fiber found in dandelion root powder, promotes the formation of beneficial microorganisms in the digestive system.  Some dandelion powder supplement companies are Ora Organic and Vibrant Health.

4. Dandelion Pills And Capsules

Dandelion pills may be composed solely of standardized dandelion extract or made with other plant extracts. Tablets combine dandelion active components and excipients in a solid form and are most frequently coated for easier ingestion and absorption. They can also be made containing only dandelion but most often include a combination of other extracts and compounds.

A capsule is a soft-shelled pill containing a powdered version of dandelion encased in gelatin, cellulose, or a similar material. It is worth noting that capsules can be devoid of excipients and are typically purer than other dandelion supplements. Suppliers prefer gelatin capsules since they dissolve quickly at body temperature. Vegetable capsules are comparable to gelatin capsules, except they are made without animal products for vegetarian or vegan users. The soft gels make them easy to swallow while ensuring the herbal extract is safely enclosed. Some companies that manufacture dandelion supplements in tablet forms are Innate Response and Megafood.

5. Raw Dandelion

Raw dandelions are edible and can be used for many culinary purposes. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, edible wild greens, such as dandelions, taste delicious, are low in calories, and are high in vitamins. In addition, raw dandelion greens have an earthy, nutty, and pleasingly bitter taste, similar to endive or radicchio. It can be served with bacon, goat cheese, almonds, and lemon to complement the flavor. The dandelion roots, stems, leaves, and flowers are all edible.

6. Cooked Dandelion

The red and green leaves that sprout from the hollow stem of a dandelion plant are used to make cooked dandelions. Like many other greens, the younger leaves are softer and gentler, while the larger leaves have a more robust flavor. The texture and taste of the red and green stems are the same. Dandelions lose part of their bitterness when cooked. After boiling the greens for 5 minutes, put them in a pan with hot olive oil and garlic and cook for 3-5 minutes. Serve on its own or as a topping for pasta or scrambled eggs.

7. Processed Dandelion

Processed dandelion is created from either wild or farmed sources for medicinal and food purposes. Aside from the mentioned benefits of dandelion, scientists are now investigating an alternative source of rubber derived from a dandelion species known as the Russian dandelion (Taraxacum kok-saghyz). “Hot-water extraction” is used to separate the rubber from the dandelions. Then, using a mechanical dicing process, the roots are added to water and heated without requiring significant chemical treatment compared to Hevea rubber extraction.

 

What Are The Dandelion Types?

Dandelions are native to Europe and Asia, where migration allowed them to expand to other parts of the globe. Below are the types of dandelions:

• • Common dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) are the recognizable, vivid yellow dandelions that grow along roadside ditches, in meadows, along river banks, and on lawns everywhere. Although it is considered an invasive weed, they have medicinal and culinary significance.

• • Red-seeded dandelion (Taraxacum erythrospermum) looks quite similar to the common dandelion; however, the red-seeded dandelion has reddish stems. It can also be found in the more northern portions of North America and Europe. Taraxacum laevigatum, or red-seeded dandelion, is assumed to be a plant variation of rock dandelion.

• • Russian dandelions (Taraxacum kok-saghyz) are native to the mountainous regions of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, where they are known as Russian dandelions. The plant looks similar to Taraxacum officinale, but its leaves have a grayish hue. The fleshy roots contain a considerable amount of rubber and have the potential to be used as a substitute source for high-quality rubber.

• • Japanese white dandelion (Taraxacum albidum) is originally from southern Japan and is seen growing alongside roadsides and in meadows. Although the plant looks similar to the common dandelion, it is not as weedy or invasive. The beautiful snow-white blossoms attract a variety of insects, including butterflies. 

• • California dandelions (Taraxacum californicum) are found in the meadows of California’s San Bernadino Mountains. However, while the plant resembles the common dandelion, the foliage is lighter green, and the flowers are a milder yellow. Dandelions in California are endangered and threatened by climate change, urbanization, and off-road vehicles.

• • Pink dandelion (Taraxacum pseudoroseum) is identical to Taraxacum officinale in appearance. The blooms of this variety are pastel pink with a yellow core, making it a unique dandelion flower. Pink dandelion is endemic to Central Asia’s high plains, but it thrives in containers, where its vitality can be managed.

What Is The Etymology Of The Dandelion?

Plants of the genus Taraxacum belong to the family Asteraceae or Compositae. Its name is derived from the Greek terms “taraxis” for inflammation and “akeomai” for curative. The popular name for dandelion is a modification of “dent de lion,” a term assumed to be based on the Welsh “Dant y Llew” of the 13th century, meaning “tooth of the lion.” This is because of the form of the immature seeds, the jagged shape of the leaves, the look of the golden florets of the inflorescence, or the robust white taproot (pulling it from a lawn is like attempting to extract a lion’s tooth). Its French name, pissenlit, is linked to the diuretic function of the plant components.

What Place Does Dandelion Have In Society And Culture?

Dandelions and flowering plants have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over a thousand years and were popular among the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Dandelions are believed to have arrived in North America aboard the Mayflower, not as stowaways but as medical plants sent specifically for their health properties.

Dandelions were renowned around the world for their beauty. In Europe, they were a common and cherished garden flower and the subject of numerous poems. Likewise, the bright face of the dandelion was a welcome sight in the New World, serving as a lovely reminder of home. In Japan, entire horticultural groups have been known to appreciate the beauty of dandelions and developed interesting new types for gardens.

What Are Some Food Recipes That Contain Dandelion?

A dandelion is edible in all parts of its life cycle, from the roots to leaves to flowers and even its unopened flower buds and bloom stalks. As a result, it’s possible to find literally hundreds of dandelion recipes on the internet that provide innovative ideas for preparing and consuming every component of the plant and medicinal purposes.

• Kentucky Dandelion Greens (great with cornbread!)
• Wilted Dandelion Greens Salad
• Dandelion Syrup
• Dandelion Soup
• Pink Dandelion Wine
• Dandelion Pesto
• Dandelion Root Coffee
• Dandelion Jelly
• Dandelion Mead
• Fried Dandelion Blossoms

 

What Are The Dandelion Parts?

The dandelion ingredients used for health benefits are as follows:

Leaves: Dandelion leaves are usually included in spring salads. They can be added to meals a few times a day and may aid digestion by increasing bile production.

Roots: Dandelion root can be boiled and used to make a tea or tincture to help digestion and nutrient absorption. When combined with cranberry and echinacea, dandelion root tea has been shown to benefit urinary tract health.

Flowers: Dandelion flowers are a lymphatic herb that can be used to make a topical oil to massage over the lymphatic system’s cystic and fibrous tissues. The oil created from its flowers combines well with the infused oils of calendula, plantain, and violet flowers. It can also be used as a massage oil for postpartum mothers.

 

What Is The History Of Dandelion?

The earliest scientific classification of dandelion was by Linnaeus in 1753. Wiggers (1746–1811) explained the genus Taraxacum, and Georg Heinrich Weber devised the present taxonomy in 1780. Many botanists assume that dandelion originated in Greece and the Northern Himalayas and moved across temperate zones to Europe and Asia Minor. Dandelion has a fossil record that stretches back to the glacial and interglacial ages in Europe, and it is believed to have colonized the Americas post-Pleistocene via Beringia. Later introductions of this plant to North America are hidden in opposing claims. It may have arrived on the east coast with the Vikings circa 1000 AD, on the Mayflower, or the introduction was by later settlers who brought it as a garden plant or a pot herb for medicinal uses.

The earliest known observation of dandelion in North America was in the New England area in 1672. The Cree, Digger, Apache, and Mohican tribes soon became aware of its virtues and employed it as a medical herb. There have possibly been several introductions from many sources. The plant is supposed to have spread to the west coast with loggers and settlers. The earliest Canadian collection of dandelion was made in Montréal, QC, in 1821, where it was observed as a common species. Now it is widely diffused in Europe, Asia, and America. 

 

What Are The Other Plants That Are Called Dandelions From Time To Time?

Dandelions belong to the daisy family and are often considered weeds, but you can enjoy their roots, leaves, and flowers for various purposes. Listed below are other plants that are called dandelions from time to time.

• • Taraxacum aphrogenes, the Paphos dandelion
  • Taraxacum albidum, the white-flowered Japanese dandelion, a hybrid between Taraxacum japonicum and Taraxacum coreanum 
  • Taraxacum brevicorniculatum, frequently misidentified as Taraxacum kok-saghyz and a poor rubber producer
  • Taraxacum californicum, the California dandelion, is an endangered species
  • Taraxacum centrasiaticum, the Xinjiang dandelion
  • Taraxacum ceratophorum, the horned dandelion, is considered by some sources to be a North American subspecies of Taraxacum officinale
  • Taraxacum coreanum
  • Taraxacum erythrospermum, the red-seeded dandelion, is usually considered a variety of Taraxacum laevigatum (i.e., Taraxacum laevigatum var. erythrospermum)
  • Taraxacum farinosum, the Turkish dandelion
  • Taraxacum holmboei, the Troödos dandelion
  • Taraxacum japonicum, the Japanese dandelion, no ring of small, downward-turned leaves underneath the flower
  • Taraxacum kok-saghyz, the Kazakh dandelion, makes rubber
  • Taraxacum laevigatum, the rock dandelion, has reddish-brown achenes and leaves deeply cut throughout, with hooded inner bracts
  • Taraxacum mirabile
  • Taraxacum pankhurstianum, the St. Kilda dandelion
  • Taraxacum platycarpum, the Korean dandelion

 

 

Are Dandelion Supplements Approved By The Authorities?

No, the Food and Drug Administration regulates health supplements like dandelion as dietary supplements, not as drugs. That means these supplements don’t need prior approval from the FDA to be sold. However, once they are on the market, the FDA starts exercising its safety monitoring function. They review supplement labels and promotional materials as its resources allow and monitor safety complaints about the product. The supplement manufacturer is required to report any of these complaints to the FDA within 15 days of receiving them.

Is Dandelion An Anticoagulant?

Yes, dandelion is an anticoagulant, according to Lis et al. as stated in the Journal Of Functional Foods. They found that the plant is a valuable source of secondary metabolites, such as hydroxyphenylacetate inositol esters, which have antioxidant, anticoagulant, and antiplatelet activities.

Can You Take Dandelion At Night?

Yes, you can take dandelion at night. It is a natural diuretic that aids in the elimination of waste products. You should urinate before bed to help relieve bloating and accompanying discomfort that keeps you scrambling at night.

Can You Take Dandelion After Meals?

Yes, dandelion can be taken after a meal. In addition to being a rich source of the prebiotic fiber inulin, dandelions have been shown to aid in relieving constipation and the movement of food through the digestive tract.

Can You Take Dandelion Every Day?

Yes, you can take dandelion every day. A diet or daily supplement that includes dandelion may benefit from its high nutritional content.

Can A Child Take Dandelion?

Yes, according to the American School of Natural Health, a child can take dandelion leaf because it is gentle and supportive for the kidneys. However, careful considerations should be taken because it might cause allergic reactions in some children.

Can Your Pet Consume Dandelion?

Yes, according to the American Kennel Club, dandelion greens are entirely safe for dogs to consume because they contain a natural supply of vitamins A, C, K, D, and B in the stems and leaves. In addition, they include minerals like calcium and potassium and prebiotics such as inulin.

Which Tree Produces The Dandelion?

The Taraxacum officinale plant produces the common yellow dandelion. It has a rosette base that makes many flowering branches and leaves. Dandelions are widely considered an undesirable weed in Canada and the United States, although European and Asian countries have long profited from the remarkable nutritional benefits of the plant.

What Are The Top Scientific Research Topics For Dandelion?

Dandelions have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years due to the phytochemicals found in various parts of the plant. Some of the top published scientific research topics about dandelions include the following.

• Diabetes
• Prostate cancer
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Kidney disorders
• Lung injury
• Pancreatitis
• Liver disease
• Dyslipidemia
• Colitis
• Immune health 
• Prostate cancer

 

Who Should Not Use Dandelion?

You should not use dandelion if you use antacids, blood-thinning medications, diuretics, lithium, Ciproflaxin, and drugs to treat diabetes. You should consult with your doctor before including dandelion in your diet, especially if you have renal problems or are taking medications.

Is Taking Dandelion Safe For Pregnant People?

No, pregnant and nursing women should avoid dandelion remedies due to the lack of research on their long-term safety.

 

References:

1. Di Napoli, A., & Zucchetti, P. (2021). A comprehensive review of the benefits of Taraxacum officinale on human health. Bulletin Of The National Research Centre, 45(1). doi: 10.1186/s42269-021-00567-1
2. Dinkeloo, K et al. “Genetic Transformation Technologies For The Common Dandelion, Taraxacum Officinale”. Plant Methods, vol 17, no. 1, 2021. Springer Science And Business Media LLC, doi:10.1186/s13007-021-00760-3.
3. Wirngo, F. et al. “The Physiological Effects Of Dandelion (<I>Taraxacum Officinale</I>) In Type 2 Diabetes”. The Review Of Diabetic Studies, vol 13, no. 2-3, 2016, pp. 113-131. Jcfcorp SG PTE LTD, doi:10.1900/rds.2016.13.113.
4. García-Carrasco, B. et al. “In Vitro Hypolipidemic And Antioxidant Effects Of Leaf And Root Extracts Of Taraxacum Officinale”. Medical Sciences, vol 3, no. 2, 2015, pp. 38-54. MDPI AG, doi:10.3390/medsci3020038.
5. Wirngo, F., Lambert, M., & Jeppesen, P. (2016). The Physiological Effects of Dandelion (<i>Taraxacum Officinale</i>) in Type 2 Diabetes. The Review Of Diabetic Studies, 13(2-3), 113-131. doi: 10.1900/rds.2016.13.113
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