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Dandelion Root
(Taraxacum officinale)
 
 Introduction Back to Top
Dandelion root has historically been used as a food source and medicinal agent. While clinical evidence is lacking for its reported benefits, it has been popular in Europe, especially Germany, for many years.
 Reported Uses Back to Top
While there are a number of traditional uses for dandelion root—including use as a diuretic, laxative, and as an aid in the treatment of gallstones and jaundice—it is most commonly used to treat gall bladder inflammation and discomfort related to indigestion.(1)

Laboratory tests using rats have reported that dandelion root may also have a moderate anti-inflammatory effect as well as an ability to increase appetite.(2, 3)

 Dosage Info Back to Top
Dosage Range Most Common Dosage Dosage Forms
Capsule: 250-500mg, 3 times a day with food.

Liquid extract: (1:1w/v fresh root, 1:4w/v dried root) 1-2 teaspoonfuls (5-10ml) in orange juice or other beverage, 2-3 times a day.

Capsule: 500mg, 3 times a day with food.

Liquid extract: (1:1w/v fresh root, 1:4w/v dried root) 1 teaspoonful (5ml) in orange juice or other beverage, 3 times a day.

 
 Toxicities & Precautions Back to Top
Be sure to tell your pharmacist, doctor, or other health care providers about any dietary supplements you are taking. There may be a potential for interactions or side effects.
General
This dietary supplement is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines.(4)
Allergy
Some individuals experience an allergic reaction when taking this dietary supplement. An allergic skin reaction may occur.(5) Call your doctor or seek medical attention if you have fast or irregular breathing, skin rash, hives or itching.
Health Conditions
If you have gallstones or some form of biliary obstruction talk to your doctor before taking this dietary supplement.(6)
Pregnancy/Breast-Feeding
To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects related to fetal development during pregnancy or to infants who are breast-fed. Yet little is known about the use of this dietary supplement while pregnant or breast-feeding. Therefore, it is recommended that you inform your healthcare practitioner of any dietary supplements you are using while pregnant or breast-feeding.
Age Limitations
To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects specifically related to the use of this dietary supplement in children. Since young children may have undiagnosed allergies or medical conditions, this dietary supplement should not be used in children under 10 years of age unless recommended by a physician.
 Footnotes Back to Top
1 Newall CA, et al. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press;1996:96-97.
2 Bradley PR, ed. British Herbal Compendium. Vol.1. Bournemouth: British Herbal Medicine Association;1992:73-74.
3 Newall CA, et al. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press;1996:96-97.
4 Bisset NG, ed. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals. Stuttgart: Scientific Publishers; 1994:213.
5 Davies MG, et al. Contact Allergy to Yarrow and Dandelion. Contact Dermatitis. Apr1986;14(4):256-57.
6 McGuffin M, et al. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press;1997:114.

 

About Dandelion Root
Introduction
Reported Uses
Dosage Info
Precaution
Footnotes

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This information is educational in context and is not to be used to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Please consult your licensed health care practitioner before using this or any medical information.