When you think of dandelions, the first thing that probably comes to mind are the weeds sitting in your front yard. Yet from a holistic perspective, dandelions offer a great many of medicinal benefits, such as stimulating appetite, building the immune system and helping with digestive problems. A few preliminary studies have shown positive results with using different forms of dandelion to help with gallbladder issues, but as with any supplementation, speak with your doctor first.
Gallbladder Disease
The pear-shaped sac found just under the liver is called the gallbladder. When too much cholesterol forms in the bile that the gallbladder transports from the liver to the small intestine, inflammation and possibly gallstones can develop. Some people display no gallbladder symptoms, yet others struggle with pain between the shoulder blades, indigestion, nausea and vomiting. If you suffer from gallbladder issues, your health care provider may recommend gallbladder removal surgery, although in some cases they may recommend another form of alternative medicine before undertaking an invasive procedure to see if it offers any relief.
Studies About Dandelion and Gallbladder Symptom Relief
The NYU Langone Medical Center notes that most of the knowledge surrounding the use of dandelion to relieve gallbladder problems falls in the folk or alternative medicine category. Three research studies quoted by the center show only preliminary findings with regards to increased bile flow caused by ingesting some form of dandelion, but further research is needed before large-scale medical use can occur.
Dosages
Dandelion is available as a product on its own in pill, capsule, tincture, tea or tablet form. To drink it as a tea, pour hot water over 2 tsp. of dandelion and let it steep for up to 10 minutes. For a tincture of dandelion, start with 10 to 15 drops added to a liquid of your choosing up to three times a day. Dandelion leaves also may be eaten raw in a salad, added to a smoothie or cooked for additional nutritional benefits.
Contraindications
Although rare, if you are allergic to chrysanthemum, ragweed, chamomile or daisies, avoid using dandelion supplements or products in any form. People who take lithium, antacids or pills for insulin reduction also should only use dandelion under the direct supervision of a doctor. Also, because of the diuretic effects of dandelion, if you have gallstones or bile duct blockages, do not use dandelion without a doctor's prior approval.
