Dandelion is a weed, food and medicinal herb that is often used as a natural diuretic and to treat digestive issues, according to Medline Plus. Dandelion tea, made from the roasted root of the plant, is often used as a coffee substitute as well. Most of its medicinal uses are unproven. While dandelion tea is generally safe, it can cause some side effects. Talk to your doctor before using dandelion tea.
Side Effects
Side effects from dandelion tea are rare, but some people develop mouth sores, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Dandelion may increase stomach acid and cause heartburn, and it can cause a rash. People who have diabetes, gallbladder problems or gallstones should consult a doctor before using dandelion, because it can worsen those conditions. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take dandelion tea without consulting a doctor because there is not enough known to judge whether it is safe or not.
Allergic Reaction
In rare cases, dandelion tea can cause a serious allergic reaction that may cause breathing problems, swelling of the throat, lips, tongue or face and hives, according to Drugs.com. This is a potentially life-threatening situation and requires emergency care. People who are allergic to ragweed, daisies, chamomile, yarrow, iodine, chrysanthemums and marigolds are likely to be allergic to dandelion and should avoid it, according to the UMMC.
Drug Interactions
Because dandelion acts as a diuretic it could cause your body to excrete any prescription medications you are on, which can interfere with how they work, according to UMMC. Talk to your doctor before taking dandelion tea with any prescription medications. Don't use dandelion tea if you are taking diuretics because the combination could cause potassium levels to spike to dangerous levels, according to Medline Plus. Dandelion could impair the effectiveness of antibiotics and increase the side effects of lithium and blood thinners. Dandelion acts on the liver and should not be combined with other drugs that affect the liver such as acetaminophen, atorvastatin, diazepam, digoxin, estrogen, lorazepam, lovastatin, morphine and haloperidol.
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