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Dandelion

Overview

Dandelion is an herb that is native to Europe. It is also found throughout mild climates of the northern hemisphere.

People use dandelion for conditions such as swelling (inflammation) of the tonsils (tonsillitis), infections of the kidney, bladder, or urethra (urinary tract infections or UTIs), and many others, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Classification

Is a Form of:

Herb

Primary Functions:

Swelling of tonsils, kidney infection

Also Known As:

Taraxaci Herba, Taraxacum, Taraxacum dens-leonis

How Does It Work?

Dandelion contains chemicals that may increase urine production, prevent crystals from forming in the urine, and decrease swelling (inflammation).

Uses

  • Swelling (inflammation) of the tonsils (tonsillitis). Early research shows that people who have had their tonsils removed recover faster if they eat soup containing dandelion compared to those who eat soup without dandelion.
  • Infections of the kidney, bladder, or urethra (urinary tract infections or UTIs). A specific combination of dandelion root and leaf extracts of another herb called uva ursi taken by mouth seems to help reduce the number of UTIs in women. In this combination, uva ursi is used because it seems to kill bacteria, and dandelion is used to increase urine flow. However, this combination should not be used long-term because it is not known if uva ursi is safe for extended use.
  • Arthritis-like pain.
  • Bruises.
  • Constipation.
  • Eczema.
  • Heart failure.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Upset stomach.
  • Intestinal gas (flatulence).
  • Other conditions.

Recommended Dosing

The appropriate dose of dandelion depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for dandelion. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

Dandelion Supplements Frequently Asked Questions

What does dandelion supplement do?

Dandelion greens are a good source of calcium and vitamin K — both of which are associated with the prevention of bone loss. Inulin, a fiber found in dandelion root, may also support healthy bones through improved digestion and the promotion of healthy gut bacteria.

Is dandelion supplement good for you?

Some animal studies have shown that dandelion can help to normalize blood glucose levels. Also, it has an antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Tube studies have shown that dandelion extracts also have antitumor activity in liver, colon, and melanoma cancer cell lines.

Is Dandelion good for kidneys?

Dandelion leaves act as a diuretic, increasing the amount of urine your body makes. 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.

Does dandelion tea reduce belly fat?

Dandelion Root: I like roasted dandelion root tea to beat belly fat. The dandelion root increases liver function, which flushes toxins and excess water from the belly area and in turn gives you a flatter tummy. Just 2-4 cups a day does the trick.

How fast does dandelion work?

A detox like this can be done anywhere from three to ten days, with the average being seven. There is no increased benefit from going on a detox lasting longer than ten days. A dandelion root liver cleanse may cause a few unpleasant side effects. Some people experience a mild laxative effect.

What are the side effects of dandelion?

Dandelion is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth in the amounts commonly found in food. It is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth in medicinal amounts (larger amounts than those found in food). Taking dandelion by mouth might cause allergic reactions, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or heartburn in some people.

Is Dandelion good for weight loss?

Aiding weight loss

This is based on the plant's ability to improve carbohydrate metabolism and reduce fat absorption. A small study of mice found that chlorogenic acid, a chemical present in dandelions, may help reduce weight gain and lipid retention.

Is Dandelion good for the liver?

It Could Promote Liver Health

Dandelion root has long been held as a “liver tonic” in folk medicine. Naturopaths believe it means that dandelion root tea could help detoxify the liver, help with skin and eye problems, and relieve symptoms of liver disease.

Is it OK to drink dandelion tea everyday?

Possible Side Effects

Dandelion is considered safe for most people. However, some people may have an allergic reaction from touching or ingesting dandelion. Dandelion has also been found to interact with certain medications, including diuretics, lithium, and Cipro.

Which is better dandelion root or leaf?

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

Does dandelion lower blood pressure?

May Lower Blood Pressure

In Western medicine, diuretic medications are used to rid the body of excess fluid, which can lead to lowered blood pressure. One human study found dandelion to be an effective diuretic. Summary Dandelion may lower blood pressure due to their diuretic effect and potassium content.

Will dandelion tea make you poop?

Dandelion can stimulate the liver to produce bile, which can indirectly help with constipation. Dandelion tea can also act as a diuretic in the body, adding more water to the digestive system and the stools. This can help to relieve mild constipation.

Can I eat dandelions?

Dandelion leaves to be eaten raw are best when they are fresh and young. As they age, the leaves get increasingly bitter. But they are still edible, particularly if you blanch them before using them in your recipe.

How do you prepare dandelions to eat?

Cooking dandelions eliminates some of the bitterness. First boil the greens for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a pan with hot olive oil and garlic, and sautee for 3-5 minutes. Eat as is or add to other dishes like pasta or scrambled eggs.

What are the benefits of drinking dandelion tea?

Here are 8 health benefits of dandelion tea you may not have known:

  • Good for Digestion. “Dandelion teacan have many positive effects on your digestive system.
  • Detoxifies the Liver.
  • Acts as a Diuretic.
  • Reduces Water Weight.
  • Powerhouse of Antioxidants.
  • Fights Diabetes.
  • Treats Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
  • Fights Cancer.

Is dandelion root a blood thinner?

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).

What does dandelion coffee taste like?

Dandelion coffee is an uncanny doppleganger of regular coffee, with a similar deep chocolate hue and rich, invigorating taste that's more or less identical to the real thing.

Does dandelion tea increase appetite?

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.

What are the benefits of dandelion root?

Here are 13 potential health benefits of dandelion, and what science has to say about them.

  • Highly Nutritious.
  • Contain Potent Antioxidants.
  • May Help Fight Inflammation.
  • May Aid Blood Sugar Control.
  • May Reduce Cholesterol.
  • May Lower Blood Pressure.
  • May Promote a Healthy Liver.
  • May Aid Weight Loss.

Does dandelion tea dehydrate you?

Share on Pinterest Dandelion tea is a natural diuretic. Dandelion also has a history of use as a natural diuretic, according to the NIH. Its diuretic effect means that the tea encourages both urination and reduced water retention in the body.

How much dandelion should I take?

Dosage. A typical dosage of dandelion root is 2 to 8 g, 3 times daily of dried root; 250 mg, 3 to 4 times daily of a 5:1 extract; or 5 to 10 ml, 3 times daily of a 1:5 tincture in 45% alcohol. The leaves may be eaten in salad or cooked.

How often should you drink dandelion DeTox tea?

For many people, Yogi Roasted Dandelion Spice DeTox tea is appropriate for daily, long term use, and as a general suggestion, we recommend drinking 1 to 3 cups per day.

Is dandelion tea a diuretic?

Dandelion also has a history of use as a natural diuretic, according to the NIH. Its diuretic effect means that the tea encourages both urination and reduced water retention in the body.

Does dandelion make you pee?

The French word [for dandelion] is pissenlit, which translates to "pee the bed." Dandelions are a diuretic and in fact they are as strong as some of the commercial products. The leaves, the flowers and the roots are edible.

How does dandelion root help the liver?

It Could Promote Liver Health

Preliminary studies suggest this is due, in part, to its ability to increase the flow of bile. Naturopaths believe it means that dandelion root tea could help detoxify the liver, help with skin and eye problems, and relieve symptoms of liver disease.

Clinical Studies