Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) Extract

Snapshot

Traditional herbal extract from dandelion root and leaves used to support liver health, digestion, urinary flow, and antioxidant defense.

 

What It Is

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a common flowering plant long used in European, Native American, and Asian herbal traditions. Extracts from its root and aerial parts are valued for detoxifying and diuretic properties.

Where It Comes From

Native to Europe and North America, dandelion is found in fields, meadows, and lawns. The root is harvested in fall and the leaves in spring. Both are dried and processed into tinctures, capsules, teas, and standardized extracts.

Key Nutrients & Compounds

Dandelion extract contains sesquiterpene lactones, taraxasterol, chlorogenic acid, flavonoids, polysaccharides (inulin), and vitamins A, C, and K. These compounds contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mild diuretic effects.

Health Benefits

  • Liver & Detox Support – Traditionally used to stimulate bile flow and support liver function.
  • Digestive Aid – Bitter compounds help stimulate appetite and digestive secretions.
  • Diuretic Action – Promotes increased urine flow, helping reduce mild water retention.
  • Antioxidant Properties – Flavonoids and polyphenols help neutralize free radicals.
  • Metabolic Support – Early studies suggest possible benefits for healthy cholesterol and glucose regulation.

Recommended Dosage

Dried root capsules: 500–2000 mg daily.

Tea/infusion: 2–8 g dried leaf/root steeped in hot water, up to 3 times daily.

Tincture/extract: 2–5 mL, 3 times daily (1:5 strength in 45% alcohol).

Always follow product-specific instructions.

How To Use It

Dandelion can be taken as capsules, tinctures, or brewed into herbal tea. The root is commonly used for liver and digestive support, while the leaf is more often used as a diuretic.

Who Should Use It

Individuals interested in natural liver and digestive support, those looking to reduce mild bloating or water retention, or anyone seeking an antioxidant-rich herbal supplement.

Possible Interactions or Cautions

May interact with diuretics, lithium, or medications processed by the liver. Use caution with gallbladder obstruction or bile duct issues. People allergic to ragweed or related plants (Asteraceae family) may experience sensitivity. Not recommended for pregnant or nursing individuals without professional guidance.

Final Thoughts

Dandelion extract is a time-honored herb with versatile benefits for liver health, digestion, and urinary support. Backed by tradition and growing scientific evidence, it remains a staple in natural wellness routines.

Scientific Studies

Clare BA, Conroy RS, Spelman K. The diuretic effect in human subjects of an extract of Taraxacum officinale folium over a single day. J Altern Complement Med. 2009.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19678785

Hu C, Kitts DD. Antioxidant, prooxidant, and cytotoxic activities of solvent-fractionated dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) flower extracts in vitro. J Agric Food Chem. 2003.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12720371

Choi U, Jeong YS, Kim JH, Lee JH. Protective effect of dandelion root against alcohol-induced oxidative stress and hepatotoxicity in mice. Food Chem Toxicol. 2010.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20600236