All parts of dandelions have been used for food and medicinal purposes for many years, but this flower might not be safe pregnant women. Consult with your doctor about the use of dandelion if you are pregnant, might become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Dandelion Uses
According to Drugs.com, dandelion is a natural herbal product that can be used on its own or as a common additive to many herbal remedies. It is used to help treat stomach acidity, gas, indigestion, urinary tract infection and kidney stones, and to improve appetite and blood circulation. It is a detoxifying agent that works in the liver and gallbladder to promote the removal of waste. It also might decrease inflammation.
Use During Pregnancy
According to the American Pregnancy Association, there is simply not enough information to determine whether dandelion is safe during pregnancy. Medline Plus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, says dandelion is “likely safe” for most people when eaten in the amounts found in food, such as dandelion teas, and “possibly safe” for most people when consumed in the amounts added to medications or concentrated into pill forms. There have not been enough studies or research to determine whether it is safe for pregnant or lactating women. The recommendation from Medline Plus is to “stay on the safe side and avoid use.”
Avoiding Dandelion
Dandelion can be found in teas or used in salads, soups, wine, and as a coffee substitute.
According to the Natural Medications Database, it is sometimes added to laxatives, diuretics, circulatory tonics, skin toners, blood tonics and digestive tonics. For this reason, if you decide to avoid dandelion, it is important to discuss with your doctor every over-the-counter medication you are taking to make sure you know the ingredients. Additionally, dandelion goes by many names, such as cankerwort and wild endive.
Further Warnings
You also should not use dandelion if you have a bile duct or intestinal blockage or a ragweed allergy, which often means you might be sensitive to dandelion. Discuss the use of dandelion with your doctor or pharmacist if you have other food allergies, diabetes or gallbladder problems. Also ask about possible interactions with other drugs you are taking. Dandelion might interact with antibiotics, lithium, medications changed by the liver and water pills.
