Dandelion

Background

• Dandelion is native to Europe but found throughout temperate regions in the Northern Hemisphere. The flowers, leaves, and root of the plant have traditionally been used in Mexican and other North American medicine.
• Today, oral dandelion products are promoted for indigestion, while oral and topical dandelion products are promoted for joint pain.

How Much Do We Know?

• We know very little about dandelion’s effect on human health. Very little research exists on this herb.

What Have We Learned?

• There’s no compelling scientific evidence supporting the use of dandelion for any health condition.
• Preliminary laboratory studies have evaluated dandelion extracts for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• The use of dandelion in the amounts commonly found in food is considered likely safe. Less is known about the safety of taking dandelion in larger amounts.
• Some evidence suggests that topical dandelion may cause an allergic reaction in people who have atopic dermatitis (eczema).
• There is conflicting evidence about whether dandelion causes an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to related plants like ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies.
• There are theoretical reasons to suspect that dandelion might interact with antidiabetes, anticoagulant, antiplatelet, and water pill drugs, among others. If you take any type of medicine or supplements, talk with your health care provider before using dandelion or other herbal products; some herbs and medicines interact in harmful ways.
• Little is known about whether it’s safe to use dandelion in amounts greater than those found in foods during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Keep in Mind

• Take charge of your health—talk with your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.
• Federal Regulation of Herbal Products
  • Depending on what’s in them, how they’re intended to be used, and how they’re administered (orally or topically), herbal products are regulated in a variety of ways. Many herbal products intended for oral use are marketed as dietary supplements. The rules for making and distributing dietary supplements are less strict than those for drugs.
  • Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before they are sold to the public. When public health concerns arise about the safety of a dietary supplement or an ingredient including an herb, the FDA can take action to protect the public. Manufacturers and distributors of supplements are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all regulatory requirements. 

For More Information

• Using Dietary Supplements Wisely
• Know the Science: How Medications and Supplements Can Interact
• Know the Science: How To Make Sense of a Scientific Journal Article

Key References