Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a prolific perennial plant that many homeowners try to obliterate from their lawns. But it's a very valuable medicinal herb and is often used as a culinary herb, too. The plant originated in Europe, but now it grows wild in most of the world, according to HealthLine. Dandelion is known to contain zinc, iron and potassium, as well as vitamins A, B complex, C and D.
Other common names for this plant are blowball, cankerwort, dent de lion, lion's tooth, priest's crown, pu gong ying, puffball, swine snout, white endive and wild endive.
Primary Use
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), the root of the dandelion is used to promote liver detoxification, and the leaves are used to improve kidney function.
The UMMC website also says dandelion leaves are used to stimulate the appetite while the root is used to aid digestion. There is some evidence that dandelion root may support the health and function of the gastrointestinal tract's helpful bacteria.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine (UNLM) tells of dandelion being used for treatment of hepatitis B and colitis. Unfortunately, the studies of the herb's use for these conditions used a mixture of herbs that included dandelion. Because the study was poorly designed, much more study needs to take place to determine the herb's effectiveness.
Other Potential Medicinal Uses
The UNLM also says dandelion is used as an anti-inflammatory, as an antioxidant, to treat cancer, to lower blood sugar levels for diabetes patients and as a diuretic. There is limited scientific data to support the use of dandelion for these conditions, so more study is needed.
Other Non-medicinal Uses
The leaves of the dandelion plant are often used as a salad green. The root is also often roasted and used as a coffee substitute.
Drug Interactions & Contraindications
The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) website warns that people with a blocked bile duct or gall bladder problems should not use dandelion. There is also some evidence that dandelion has harmful interactions with Lithium, various diuretics and medications for hypoglycemic patients. Consult a doctor before you start taking dandelion supplements.
Warning
In some cases, dandelion can cause heartburn or an upset stomach. The MSKCC website says that taking too much dandelion can also cause mild diarrhea.
Any new substance can cause allergic reaction. Be aware of any rashes, hives or difficulty breathing when using dandelion. If any of these symptoms occur, stop using it and contact your doctor.
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