Cont’d.
You may know dandelion as a stubborn weed in your garden, but this plant may also benefit your health. Here are 13 potential benefits of dandelion.
www.healthline.com
7. May Promote a Healthy Liver
Animal studies have found that dandelion have a protective effect on liver tissue in the presence of toxic substances and stress.
One study revealed significant protection of liver tissue in mice exposed to toxic levels of acetaminophen (Tylenol). Researchers attributed this finding to dandelion’s antioxidant content (
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Other animal studies have shown that dandelion extract may reduce levels of
excess fat stored in the liver and protect against oxidative stress in liver tissue (
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However, the same results should not be expected in humans due to differences in human and animal metabolism.
Further research is needed to determine how dandelion impact liver health in humans.
Summary
Animal studies have shown that dandelion protect liver tissue from toxic substances and oxidative stress, but more research is needed to determine their effect on liver health in humans.
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8. May Aid Weight Loss
Some research indicates that dandelion and their bioactive components may support weight loss and maintenance, though the data is not entirely conclusive.
Some researchers theorize that dandelion’s ability to improve carbohydrate metabolism and reduce fat absorption may lead to
weight loss. However, this notion has yet to be scientifically proven (
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One study in mice showed weight loss associated with dandelion supplementation, though it should be noted that this was an accidental finding and not the main focus of the study (
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Another study in obese mice revealed that chlorogenic acid, a compound found in dandelion, was able to reduce body weight and levels of some fat-storage hormones (
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Yet again, this research did not specifically evaluate dandelion’s role in weight loss and obesity prevention.
More focused, human-based research is needed to determine a clear cause-and-effect relationship between dandelion and weight management.
Summary
Some animal studies have shown that bioactive components in dandelion may support weight loss, but no human studies have evaluated this effect.
9. May Fight Cancer
Perhaps one of the most intriguing health claims of dandelion is their potential to prevent the growth of cancerous cells in many different organ systems.
One test-tube study revealed significantly reduced growth of cancerous cells that were treated with dandelion leaf extract. However, extracts from dandelion flower or root did not lead to the same result (
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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 (
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These findings are encouraging, but more research is fundamental to fully understand how dandelion may be useful in treating or
preventing cancer in humans.
Summary
Several test-tube studies have found that dandelion is effective in reducing the growth of cancer cells in various organ tissues. More research is needed to draw conclusions about its efficacy for preventing or treating cancer in humans.
10. May Support Healthy Digestion and Treat Constipation
Traditional herbal medicine utilizes dandelion to treat constipation and other symptoms of impaired digestion. Some early research seems to support these claims.
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 (
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Additionally, dandelion root is a rich source of the
prebiotic fiber inulin. Research indicates that inulin has a strong capacity to
reduce constipation and increase intestinal movement (
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Summary
Research indicates that dandelion may increase contractions and movement of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract, acting as a treatment for constipation and indigestion. This effect is likely due to the prebiotic fiber inulin.
11. May Boost Your Immune System
Some research indicates that dandelion may have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which could support your body’s ability to fight infection.
Several test-tube studies found that dandelion extract significantly reduced the ability of viruses to replicate (
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Research also indicates that some of the active compounds in dandelion protect against various harmful bacteria (
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Ultimately, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions about dandelion’s ability to fight viral and bacterial infection in humans.
Summary
Early research indicates that dandelion have antiviral and antimicrobial properties, though clear applications for medicinal use have yet to be determined.
12. May Be a Useful Skincare Treatment
Animal and test-tube research indicate that dandelion may protect against skin damage from sunlight, aging and acne.
In one study, dandelion leaf and flower extracts protected against
skin damagewhen applied just prior to or immediately after exposure to UVB radiation (sunlight). Interestingly, dandelion root was not effective in the same way (
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One of the characteristics of aging skin is a decrease in the production of healthy, new skin cells.
One test-tube study showed that dandelion root extract increased the generation of new skin cells, which could slow the aging process (
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Additional research indicates that dandelion extract may reduce skin inflammation and irritation while also increasing hydration and collagen production. This may be useful in preventing and treating certain types of
acne (
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Reliable human research is still needed to better understand how dandelion may support skin health.
Summary
Animal and test-tube studies indicate that dandelion may protect against harmful sun rays, aging and skin irritations, such as acne. Currently, reliable human studies are unavailable.
13. May Support Healthy Bones
Very little research has been conducted on dandelion’s effect on bone health, though some of its individual nutritional components contribute to the maintenance of strong,
healthy bones.
Dandelion greens are a good source of
calcium and vitamin K — both of which are associated with the prevention of bone loss (
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Inulin, a fiber found in dandelion root, may also support healthy bones through improved digestion and the promotion of healthy gut bacteria (
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Summary
Research directly relating dandelion to bone health is lacking, though some nutritional components of the plant are known to support the maintenance of strong bones.
Dosage and Supplement Forms
Dandelion leaves, stems and flowers are often consumed in their natural state and can be eaten cooked or raw. The root is usually dried, ground and consumed as a tea or
coffee substitute.
Dandelion is also available in supplemental forms, such as capsules, extracts and tinctures.
Currently, there are no clear dosage guidelines, as very little human research has been conducted on dandelion as a supplement.
According to some available data, suggested dosages for different forms of dandelion are (
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- Fresh leaves: 4–10 grams, daily.
- Dried leaves: 4–10 grams, daily.
- Leaf tincture: 0.4–1 teaspoon (2–5 ml), three times a day.
- Fresh leaf juice: 1 teaspoon (5 ml), twice daily.
- Fluid extract: 1–2 teaspoon (5–10 ml), daily.
- Fresh roots: 2–8 grams, daily.
- Dried powder: 250–1,000 mg, four times a day.
Summary
There are currently no clear dosage guidelines for dandelion supplements, as research is limited. Different forms of dandelion require different suggested doses.
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Dandelion have low toxicity and are likely safe for most people, especially when consumed as a food in its whole form (
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However, keep in mind that research is still very limited and its use is not 100% risk-free.
Dandelion can cause allergic reactions, particularly in people with allergies to related plants like ragweed. Contact dermatitis can also occur in people with sensitive skin (
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Dandelion may interact unfavorably with some medications, especially certain diuretics and antibiotics (
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If you’re taking any prescription medications, always consult your healthcare provider prior to taking dandelion.
Summary
Dandelion have low toxicity and are likely safe for most people. They can cause allergic reactions in some and may interact negatively with certain medications, particularly diuretics and antibiotics.
The Bottom Line
Dandelion are not a replacement for a
balanced diet and
healthy lifestyle, especially with regard to disease prevention and treatment.
Yet, they could be a unique and nutritious addition to your wellness routine.
Dandelion have the potential to provide some therapeutic health benefits — but don’t count on it. Research on specific applications for dandelion is lacking, especially in human studies.
Dandelion are unlikely to cause harm, as long as you’re not allergic or taking certain medications.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before adding a new herbal supplement to your diet.