Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) are a type of flowering plant native to Europe, Asia and North America. The root is a slim, carrot-like tap root, often 8 to 14 inches long.

Dandelion root has a rich history of use in traditional medicine. Native Americans chewed on dandelion root to relieve pain. It is loaded with nutritients and has numerous health benefits, which include improving digestion, lowering cholesterol levels, supporting liver function, lowering blood sugar levels, and fighting inflammation.

Improves Blood Pressure

Dandelion root contains bitter flavonoids, which makes it an effective diuretic but without the mineral-depleting side effects prevalent in diuretic drugs. Due to its diuretic action, it may be beneficial in treating high blood pressure. Dandelion is also high in potassium,  a mineral and electrolyte that stimulates the heartbeat. Potassium may help the kidney filter toxins more effectively and improve blood flow.

Oxidative stress is one of the factors co-responsible for the development of hypertension. In subsequent in vitro and in vivo studies, it was verified dandelion root extract had sufficient antioxidant potential that is able to influence the reduction in hypertension-inducing factors in metabolic syndrome.

Aids in Digestion

Dandelion root also acts as a mild laxative and has been used to improve digestion. The bitter constituents in dandelion root helps the production and release of bile into the small intestine, stimulating peristalsis (a wave-like motion that moves food along) in the large intestine to reduce bowel sluggishness.

Research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine indicates that dandelion root has a natural diuretic effect, allowing your liver to more quickly eliminate toxins. Dandelion root for liver function begins in the gallbladder, with an increase in bile production. This stimulates the flow of bile from the liver.

Lowers Cholesterol

High cholesterol is one of the major contributors to coronary heart disease. Dandelion root has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. In one study, rabbits were fed a high-cholesterol diet and supplemented with dandelion root. Dandelion root led to a reduction in total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, as well as an increase in beneficial HDL cholesterol.

Improves Blood Sugar Levels

Dandelion has been considered a key anti-diabetic plant because of its anti-hyperglycemic, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties This is due to the various bioactive components present in dandelion. Studies suggest dandelion root helps lower blood sugar levels and reduces insulin resistence, especially when taken in conjunction with astragalus root.

Reduces Inflammation

Dandelion root is a rich source of beta carotene and polyphenol compounds, both of which may neutralize harmful free radicals and protect against inflammation and chronic disease.

Reduces Cancer Growth

Research also suggests dandelion root can help reduce cancer growth. A number of studies have found that dandelion root may be useful in the prevention and treatment of certain types of cancer, including liver cancer, leukemia, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, and prostate cancer. For example, a study in Oncotarget showed that dandelion root extract was able to kill 95 percent of colon cancer cells within two days.

Typical Daily Usage

Fresh Foot: 1/4 – 1/2 cup

Dried Root 6-12 gm

Warnings

Do not take dandelion root if you have kidney disease or a bleeding disorder. If you are taking prescription medication, check with your health care provider before taking herbal supplements.