In addition to its laxative effects, dandelion root also appears to influence the liver and gallbladder in the secretion of bile. This action suggests that dandelion root might help in treating indigestion and low stomach acidity. Consult your doctor before taking dandelion root to discuss the correct dosage and potential health risks.
Benefits
Dandelion root appears to have specific effects on the liver and gallbladder that might help treat indigestion, heartburn and liver problems, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Dandelion root’s actions might also help to treat other types of gastrointestinal disorders and provide general liver support. You might take 2g to 8g of dandelion root three times per day or 250mg of root extract three or four times per day, notes the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Don’t take dandelion root for any purpose before first talking with your physician.
Function
Dandelion root appears to have cholagogic properties, meaning that it stimulates gallbladder contraction to increase bile production, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Called the “bitter principles,” these properties in dandelion root also seem to increase bile production and improve overall function of the liver and gallbladder. This increase in bile can have a secondary benefit of improving cholesterol metabolism, notes the University of Michigan Health System.
Scientific Evidence
Few medical studies have been performed on dandelion’s effects in the human body. A 1982 preliminary study in Europe found that dandelion root did in fact increase bile flow, notes the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Another preliminary study published by the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy in 1996 also found this effect. A 1985 study published in the journal Lebensmittel-Wissenschaft und-Technologie determined that dandelion’s bitter compounds were responsible for its effects on bile to stimulate digestion, according to the University of Michigan Health System.
Dosage
The typical dosage recommended for supporting liver and gallbladder function to improve bile production and flow is 1 to 2 tsp. of dandelion root tincture or 1/2 to 1 tsp. of dried root taken three times daily, according to the University of Michigan Health System. The tincture is typically alcohol-based with 45 percent alcohol, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Ask your physician about the correct dosage of dandelion root before you take it.
Dangers
Because dandelion root might increase bile production and flow, you shouldn’t take it if you have gallbladder problems such as gallstones or bile duct blockages. Dandelion root can aggravate peptic ulcers, cause acid reflux and interact negatively with drugs such as lithium, diabetes medications and diuretic water pills. Some people might also be allergic to dandelion. Talk with your doctor about these dangers before taking dandelion root.
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