Dandelions may grow like a weed in your lawn, but they are also a rich source of minerals and vitamins A, B, C and D, an edible foodstuff and a home remedy. Traditional Native American and Chinese medicine prescribes the herb for kidney disease, fevers and diabetes. It may be effective to remedy digestive complaints as well. But scientific research has not produced strong evidence that the plant works as a medication. Take dandelion for a health problem if your doctor prescribes it.
What Dandelion Does
The University of Maryland Medical Center says that dandelion roots "may help promote gastrointestinal health," increasing your appetite and facilitating digestion. According to the medical center, the herb may relieve gas and constipation. But when taken by some individuals, the remedy can backfire, warns the organization. Stomach upset and heartburn are some of dandelion's potential side effects.
Useful Parts
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, all parts of the plant have potential medicinal uses. Some people eat the leaves raw or cooked and make wine from dandelion flowers. Manufacturers promote nutritional supplements made of the herb's dried leaves and roots. You find them in capsules and tea bags. Health food stores also sell dandelion extracts.
Administering Dandelion
Take dandelion under a doctor's care and follow her dosage instructions. If your doctor recommends a standard dosage, follow package instructions or use infusions and tinctures as follows. For infusions, use one glass of hot water and 1 to 2 tsp. dried leaves. Drink the concoction three times daily. For tinctures, take 100 to 150 drops of the leaf tincture one to three times daily to relieve gastric problems. A child's dosage is based on weight. Consult a pediatrician before giving dandelion products to children.
Possible Side Effects
Dandelion may aggravate gallbladder problems, induce skin and respiratory allergies, and cause mouth sores. The herb can also trigger indigestion. Stomach inflammation, diarrhea and an unhealthy drop in blood sugar are potential adverse reactions. This plant may also intensify the side effects of lithium, a medicine to control bipolar disorder. A species known as Chinese dandelion may decrease the therapeutic effect of a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics.
