Dandelion

Dandelion is a member of the Asteraceae/Compositae family closely related to chicory. It is a perennial herb, native throughout the Northern hemisphere, and found growing wild in meadows, pastures and waste grounds of temperate zones. Most commercial dandelion is cultivated in Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and the United Kingdom.

Dandelion was commonly used in Native American medicine. The Iroquois, Ojibwe and Rappahannock prepared infusions and decoctions of the root and herb to treat kidney disease, dyspepsia, and heartburn. In traditional Arabian medicine, dandelion has been used to treat liver and spleen ailments. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), dandelion is combined with other herbs to treat hepatitis, to enhance immune response to upper respiratory tract infections, bronchitis or pneumonia, and as a topical compress for mastitis (breast inflammation).

Dandelion root and leaf are used widely in Europe for gastrointestinal ailments. The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP) recommends dandelion root for "restoration of hepatic and biliary function, dyspepsia [indigestion], and loss of appetite." The German Commission E authorizes the use of combination products containing dandelion root and herb for biliary abnormalities, appetite loss, dyspepsia, and for stimulation of diuresis (urine flow). Some modern naturopathic physicians assert that dandelion can detoxify the liver and gallbladder, reduce side effects of medications metabolized (processed) by the liver, and relieve symptoms associated with liver disease.

Dandelion is generally regarded as safe with rare side effects including contact dermatitis, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal upset. Traditionally, the herb is not recommended in patients with liver or gallbladder disease, based on the belief that dandelion stimulates bile secretion (an assertion not demonstrated in animal or human studies).

Dandelion is used as a salad ingredient, and the roasted root and its extracts are sometimes used as a coffee substitute.

Synonyms

Asteraceae (family), blowball, cankerwort, clock flower, common dandelion, Cichoroideae (sub-family), Compositae (family), dandelion herb, dent de lion, diente de lion, dudhal, dumble-dor, fairy clock, fortune teller, hokouei-kon, huang hua di ding (yellow flower earth nail), irish daisy, Leontodon taraxacum , lion's teeth, lion's tooth, Lowenzahn, Lowenzahnwurzel, maelkebotte, milk gowan, min-deul-rre, mok's head, mongoloid dandelion, pee in the bed, pissenlit, piss-in-bed, pries' crown, priest's crown, puffball, pu gong ying, pu kung ying, Radix taraxaci , swine snout, taraxaci herba, taraxacum, Taraxacum mongolicum , Taraxacum palustre , Taraxacum vulgare , telltime, white endive, wild endive, witch gowan, witches' milk, yellow flower earth nail.

Evidence

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Uses based on scientific evidence	Grade^*
Anti-inflammatory Research in laboratory animals suggests that dandelion root may possess anti-inflammatory properties. There are no well-conducted human studies currently available in this area.	C
Antioxidant Several laboratory studies report antioxidant properties of dandelion flower extract, although this research is preliminary, and effects in humans are not known.	C
Cancer Limited animal research does not provide a clear assessment of the effects of dandelion on tumor growth. There are no well-conducted human studies currently available in this area.	C
Colitis There is a report in several patients that a combination herbal preparation containing dandelion improved chronic pain associated with colitis. Because multiple herbs were used, and this study is not well designed or reported, the effects of dandelion are not clear.	C
Diabetes There is limited animal research of the effects of dandelion on blood sugar levels in animals. Effects in humans are not known.	C
Diuretic (increased urine flow) Dandelion leaves have traditionally been used to increase urine production and excretion. Animal studies report mixed results, and there is no reliable human research in this area.	C
Hepatitis B One human study reports improved liver function in people with hepatitis B after taking a combination herbal preparation containing dandelion root, called Jiedu Yanggan Gao (also including Artemisia capillaris , Taraxacum mongolicum , Plantago seed, Cephalanoplos segetum , Hedyotis diffusa , Flos chrysanthemi indici, Smilax glabra , Astragalus membranaceus , Salviae miltiorrhizae , Fructus polygonii orientalis, Radix paeoniae alba, Polygonatum sibiricum ). Because multiple herbs were used, and this study is not well designed or reported, the effects of dandelion are not clear.	C

*Key to grades
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use;
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.

Grading rationale

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Abscess, acne, age spots, AIDS, alcohol withdrawal, allergies, analgesia, anemia, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antiviral, aphthous ulcers, appendicitis, appetite stimulant, arthritis, benign prostate hypertrophy, bile flow stimulation, bladder irritation, blood purifier, boils, breast augmentation, breast cancer, breast infection, breast inflammation, breast milk stimulation, bruises, cardiovascular disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, circulation, clogged arteries, coffee substitute, congestive heart failure, dandruff, diarrhea, dropsy, eye problems, fertility, fever reduction, food uses, frequent urination, gallbladder disease, gallstones, gas, gout, headache, heartburn, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, HIV, immune stimulation, increased sweating, jaundice, kidney disease, kidney stones, leukemia, liver disease, liver cleansing, menopause, menstrual period stimulation, muscle aches, nutrition, osteoarthritis, postpartum support, pregnancy, premenstrual syndrome, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, skin conditions, skin toner, smoking cessation, stiff joints, stimulant, stomachache, urinary stimulant, urinary tract inflammation, warts, weight loss.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (18 years and older)

Doses of 2-8 grams of dried root taken by mouth in an infusion or decoction have been used.

Doses of 4-8 milliliters of a 1:1 leaf fluid extract in 25 percent alcohol have been used.

Doses of one or two teaspoons of a 1:5 root tincture in 45 percent alcohol have been used.

Children (younger than 18 years)

There is not enough scientific research to recommend dandelion for use in children in amounts greater than found in food.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Dandelion should be avoided by individuals with known allergy to, honey, chamomile, chrysanthemums, yarrow, feverfew or any members of the Asteraceae/Compositae plant families (ragweed, sunflower, daisies).

The most common type of allergy is dermatitis (skin inflammation) after direct skin contact with dandelion, which may include itching, rash, red/swollen or eczematous areas on the skin. Skin reactions are also reported in dogs.

Rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma have been reported after handling products such as birdfeed containing dandelion and other herbs, with reported positive skin tests for dandelion hypersensitivity.

Side Effects and Warnings

Dandelion has been well tolerated in a small number of available human studies. Safety of use beyond four months has not been evaluated.

The most common reported adverse effect is skin allergy, eczema, or increased sun sensitivity following direct contact.

According to traditional accounts, gastrointestinal symptoms may occur, including stomach discomfort, diarrhea and heartburn.

Parasitic infection due to ingestion of contaminated dandelion has been reported, affecting the liver and bile ducts, and characterized by fever, stomach upset, vomiting, loss of appetite, coughing and liver damage.

Dandelion may lower blood sugar levels based on one animal study, although another study notes no changes. Effects in humans are not known. Caution is advised in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia, and in those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that affect blood sugar. Serum glucose levels may need to be monitored by a healthcare professional, and medication adjustments may be necessary.

In theory, due to chemicals called coumarins found in dandelion leaf extracts, dandelion may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®).

Historically, dandelion is believed to possess diuretic (increased urination) properties and to lower blood potassium levels.

Dandelion may be prepared as a tincture containing high levels of alcohol. Tinctures should therefore be avoided during pregnancy or when driving or operating heavy machinery.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Dandelion cannot be recommended during pregnancy and breast-feeding in amounts greater than found in foods, due to a lack of scientific information. Many tinctures contain high levels of alcohol and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

Drug interactions with dandelion have rarely been identified, although there is limited study in this area.

Dandelion may reduce the effects of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (Cipro®) due to reduced absorption of the drug. In theory, dandelion may reduce the absorption of other drugs taken at the same time.

Dandelion may lower blood sugar levels, although another study notes no changes. Although effects in humans are not known, caution is advised in patients taking prescription drugs that may also lower blood sugar levels. Those using oral drugs for diabetes or insulin should be monitored closely by a healthcare professional while using dandelion. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.

Historically, dandelion is believed to possess diuretic (increased urination) properties and to lower blood potassium levels. In theory, the effects or side effects of other drugs may be increased, including other diuretics, lithium, digoxin (Lanoxin®), or corticosteroids such as prednisone.

The effects or side effects of niacin or nicotinic acid may be increased (such as flushing and gastrointestinal upset), due to small amounts of nicotinic acid present in dandelion.

In theory, due to chemicals called coumarins found in dandelion leaf extracts, dandelion may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants (blood thinners) or antiplatelet drugs. Examples include warfarin (Coumadin®), heparin and clopidogrel (Plavix®). Some pain relievers may also increase the risk of bleeding if used with dandelion. Examples include aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) and naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®, Anaprox®). It is possible that dandelion may reduce the effectiveness of antacids or drugs commonly used to treat peptic ulcer disease. Examples include famotidine (Pepcid®) and esomeprazole (Nexium®).

Dandelion may interfere with the way the liver breaks down certain drugs (using the P450 1A2 and 2E enzyme systems). As a result, the levels of these drugs may be raised in the blood, and increase the intended effects or side effects. Patients using medications should check the package insert and speak with a healthcare professional including a pharmacist about possible interactions.

Be aware that many tinctures contain high levels of alcohol and may cause nausea or vomiting when taken with metronidazole (Flagyl®) or disulfiram (Antabuse®).

Interactions with Herbs & Dietary Supplements

Interactions of dietary supplements with dandelion have rarely been published, although there is limited study in this area.

Based on an animal study, dandelion may lower blood sugar levels, although another study notes no changes. Although effects in humans are not known, caution is advised when using herbs or supplements that may also lower blood sugar. Blood glucose levels may require monitoring, and doses may need adjustment.

Historically, dandelion is believed to possess diuretic (increased urination) properties and may increase the effects of other herbs with potential diuretic effects, such as artichoke, elder flower, or horsetail.

In theory, due to chemicals called coumarins found in dandelion leaf extracts, dandelion may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba , and fewer cases with garlic and saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases.

Dandelion may interfere with the way the liver breaks down certain drugs (using the P450 1A2 and 2E enzyme systems). As a result, the levels of other herbs or supplements may become too high in the blood. In theory, dandelion may also alter the effects that other herbs or supplements possibly have on the P450 system, such as bloodroot, grapefruit juice, or St. John's wort.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Background

Synonyms

Evidence

Dosing

Safety

Interactions