Dandelion Root & Cancer

Complementary and alternative medicine have grown in popularity for the treatment of many forms of cancer. Not only are these methods used to reduce many of the undesirable symptoms associated with the disease, but they also provide a way of slowing the progression of the cancer itself. Many of the remedies are untested by clinical trials, so most of the information is anecdotal at best. However, extract of dandelion was the subject of one study, and the findings were hopeful, particularly when it comes to breast cancer. But before taking this or any other herbal remedy, consult your doctor first.

Tumor

According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, dandelion contains potent polysaccharides -- polymers similar to those found in mushrooms that have shown some signs of exhibiting anti-tumor effects. Studies are limited, but indicate dandelion root may be beneficial as a complementary and alternative medicine for the treatment of colon cancer or breast cancer. The center does note that dandelion is not proven to treat or prevent cancer.

Evidence

A study conducted by the laboratory of biochemical and biomedical research at the department of chemistry at New Mexico Tech found that extract of dandelion root blocked the invasion of noninvasive breast cancer cells. It didn't, on the other hand, decrease the growth of these cells. This gives some indication that dandelion root may prove beneficial in preventing the metastasis -- or growth -- of breast cancer cells, but not in shrinking the size of the tumor.

Noninvasive Breast Cancer

Noninvasive breast cancer -- or stage 0 breast cancer, as it's often called -- is a form of cancer that's isolated to the milk ducts or lobules of the breast. Typically, these cancer cells remain within either of these regions, rarely moving into actual breast tissue or other tissue of the body. Most cancers of the breast, however, are invasive, so the use of dandelion root may not be an option for most women with this disease.

Effects

Like many complementary and alternative remedies, dandelion root isn't without side effects. One of the more common involves the urinary system. The high level of potassium found in dandelion root can have a diuretic effect on the body, increasing the level of urination upon ingestion. It may also cause heartburn, diarrhea, stomach inflammation and even hypoglycemia.

Interactions

Another common problem with complementary and alternative remedies is their interaction with prescription medications. Dandelion shouldn't be taken with diuretics, hypoglycemic drugs or lithium. Consult your doctor before taking this or any other herbal remedy to treat your condition.