Dandelion

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Parts used and where grown

Closely related to chicory, dandelion is a common plant worldwide and the bane of those looking for the perfect lawn. The plant grows to a height of about 12 inches, producing spatula-like leaves and yellow flowers that bloom year-round. Upon maturation, the flower turns into the characteristic puff-ball containing seeds that are dispersed in the wind. Dandelion is grown commercially in the United States and Europe. The leaves and root are used in herbal supplements.

In what conditions might dandelion be supportive?

Leaves:
• constipation
• edema (water retention)
• indigestion and heartburn
• pregnancy and postpartum support

Root:
• alcohol withdrawal support
• constipation
• liver support
• indigestion and heartburn

Historical or traditional use

Dandelion is commonly used as a food. The leaves are used in salads and teas, while the roots are often used as a coffee substitute. Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for hundreds of years to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some traditions, dandelion is considered a blood purifier and is used for ailments as varied as eczema and cancer. As is the case today, dandelion has also been used historically to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver, including hepatitis.

Active constituents

The principal constituents responsible for dandelion�s effect on the digestive system and liver are the bitter principles. Previously referred to as taraxacin, these constituents are sesquiterpene lactones of the eudesmanolide and germacranolide type and are unique to dandelion.¹ Dandelion is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The leaves have a very high content of vitamin A as well as moderate amounts of vitamin D, vitamin C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, zinc, and manganese.² The leaves are a rich source of potassium, which is interesting since the leaves are used for their diuretic action. This may make dandelion the only naturally occurring potassium-sparing diuretic, although its diuretic action is likely different from pharmaceuticals.

Product Recommendations

	Liver & Gallbladder Support 2X Maximum Absorption. Clinical strength blend of Milk Thistle, Artichoke, Turmeric, Dandelion, L-Methionine, N-Acetyl Cysteine, Alpha Lipoic and Protectamins.
	475 mg. per capsule. Used as a digestive tonic, blood cleanser, mild diuretic, and laxative. Dandelion also helps relieve inflammation of the liver and gallbladder, skin diseases, blood pressure, cholesterol and congestive jaundice.
	Total System Cleanse. To assist the Body's Internal Cleaning Process. Multisystem Cleansing and purification formula for intestines, liver, blood, kidneys, skin, and lymph.

At high doses, the leaves have been shown to possess diuretic effects comparable to the prescription diuretic frusemide (Lasix).³ Since clinical data in humans is sparse, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a physician trained in herbal medicine before using dandelion leaves for water retention.

The bitter compounds in the leaves and root help stimulate digestion and are mild laxatives.⁴ These bitter principles also increase bile production in the gallbladder and bile flow from the liver.⁵ This makes them a particularly useful tonic for persons with sluggish liver function due to alcohol abuse or poor diet. The increase in bile flow will help improve fat (including cholesterol) metabolism in the body.

How much should I take?

As a general liver/gallbladder tonic and to stimulate digestion, 3-5 grams of the dried root or 5-10 ml of a tincture made from the root can be used three times per day. Some experts recommend the alcohol-based tincture because the bitter principles are more soluble in alcohol.⁶

As a mild diuretic or appetite stimulant, 4-10 grams of dried leaves can be added to a 250 ml (1 cup) of boiling water and drunk as a decoction; or 5-10 ml of fresh juice from the leaves or 2-5 ml of tincture made from the leaves can be used, three times per day.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Dandelion leaf and root should be used with caution by persons with gallstones. If there is an obstruction of the bile ducts, then dandelion should be avoided altogether. In cases of stomach ulcer or gastritis, dandelion should be used cautiously, as it may cause overproduction of stomach acid. Those experiencing fluid or water retention should consult a nutritionally oriented doctor before taking dandelion leaves. People taking the leaves should be sure their doctor monitors potassium levels. The milky latex in the stem and leaves of fresh dandelion may cause an allergic rash in some individuals.


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References

1. Wichtl M. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1994, 486–89.
2. Bradley PR, ed. British Herbal Compendium, Vol 1. Bournemouth, Dorset, UK: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1992, 73–5.
3. Racz-Kotilla E, Racz G, Solomon A. The action of Taraxacum officinale extracts on body weight and diuresis of laboratory animals. Planta Med 1974,26:212–7.
4. Kuusi T, Pyylaso H, Autio K. The bitterness properties of dandelion. II. Chemical investigations. Lebensm-Wiss Technol 1985;18:347–9.
5. B�hm K. Choleretic action of some medicinal plants. Arzneim-Forsch Drug Res 1959; 9:376–8.
6. Foster S. Herbs for Your Health. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press, 1996, 26–7.