The common dandelion weed, Taraxicum officionale, is often maligned as a lawn invader. But this sometimes-pest has many popular uses, including as a curative herb, culinary delicacy and beverage inspiration for wine, tea and coffee substitutes. The sunshine-yellow flowers, salad-green leaves and deep, thick tap-roots are all considered useful. The roots, whether used as a vegetable, a chocolaty coffee substitute or medicine, can occasionally trigger allergic reactions and other undesirable side effects.
Stomach Upsets
Dandelion root is an appetite stimulant and digestive aid. But some sensitive individuals may experience a more potent reaction. The National Institutes of Health Center for Alternative and Complimentary Medicine reports that some individuals experience stomach upset, diarrhea and allergic skin reactions when using dandelion root and other plant parts. But these reactions are rare. Dandelions are generally considered safe, helpful and well tolerated.
Plant Family Allergies
The plant genus Taraxacum has hundreds of species of dandelions worldwide. And according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), it is also related to the flowers marigold, daisy and chrysanthemum, the herbs chamomile and yarrow, and the classical allergen ragweed. The UMMC notes that increased stomach acid and heartburn are possible adverse reactions, and recommends that anyone allergic to any of the related plants should avoid dandelion products.
Combined Effects
Allergies and similar adverse reactions to dandelion root and other dandelion products can simply be unintended consequences of beneficial actions. Dandelion acts as a diuretic, increasing elimination of urine through your kidneys. Anyone already taking a diuretic should check with the physician who prescribed it before using dandelion.
Interactions
The UMMC cautions that the diuretic action of dandelion can cause elimination of certain prescription medications. Individuals treating bipolar disorder with lithium may be at particular risk from use of dandelion root or other Taraxicum preparations.
Other Names
Dandelion is known by many other names, including priest's crown, lion's tooth and swine's snout. If you are allergic to any of the Compositae family of plants, check herbal preparations for dandelion that could be disguised by other names.
Chinese dandelion, Taraxacum mongolicum, may suppress absorption of certain antibiotics (for instance, the quinolones such as levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin) from the digestive tract.
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