Upon seeing a patch of dandelions, it’s hard to resist blowing away its seeds – it’s fun, and many people believe it can grant wishes.
On the other hand, some might see dandelions as pests, as they tend to spread quickly throughout people’s lawns.
But what a lot of people don’t know is that dandelions don’t just grant wishes: this plant has a wide array of medicinal properties that have been known for centuries.
Every part of the dandelion has its benefits. But for this article, we’ll focus on its roots as it is more commonly used for herbal remedies.
What is Dandelion Root?
The dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a common herb that can be found all over the world. It’s a hardy plant that can adapt to different climates, even in the harshest arctic zones.
The dandelion root has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, organic dandelion root extracts were used to treat swelling. Native American medicine used infusions from organic dandelion roots and leaves to cure kidney ailments, heartburn, menstrual cramps, jaundice, and physical injuries such as broken bones, bruises, swellings, sores, and fractures.[1]
While modern medicine has gone past relying on herbs to cure the ailments mentioned above, it’s still a good idea to use something that’s been proven for centuries, and even by scientists today.
5 Benefits of Organic Dandelion Root Extract
Here are some of the potential health benefits you can get out of consuming dandelion root.
- It Has Potential Anti-Cancer Properties
This is perhaps the most promising quality of dandelion root.
In 2011, a study from the University of Windsor Canada found that dandelion extract was able to kill off cancer cells that were causing melanoma within 48 hours of treatment.[2] Similarly, a study published in 2016 showed how dandelion root extract was able to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) among >95% colon cancer cells. [3]
Although more research is yet to be conducted, these encouraging findings strengthen the dandelion’s potential as an anti-cancer remedy.
- It Contains Potent Antioxidants
The dandelion root’s abundance of antioxidants is the main reason why it has so much medical benefits.
Dandelions contain large amounts of the antioxidant beta-carotene, which is the precursor to Vitamin A.[4] Antioxidants like beta carotene helps our body fight against free radicals – the unstable atoms that damage cells, causing rapid aging and illnesses.
Polyphenols are another category of antioxidants present in dandelions, which are usually found in plant-based food. [5]
- It Helps Repair Skin Damage
As mentioned earlier, dandelions were once used by Native Americans as a treatment for physical injuries. Turns out, there is actually some scientific evidence behind its efficacy.
Dandelion extract has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties. Additionally, a study from Canada in 2015 discovered that dandelion extract has the ability to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. [6]
Dandelion root extract also has the potential to be a potent skincare ingredient. One test tube study showed that it boosted skin cell generation, making it a promising anti-aging solution. [7]
However, one must take caution before applying dandelion root extract directly on skin. It is also known to cause contact dermatitis in some people, especially children. [8]
- It May Help Control Blood Sugar Levels
For those who are struggling with diabetes, dandelion root extract is an herbal remedy worth checking out.
This is because chicoric and chlorogenic acid can be found in dandelion root extract – these two are bioactive compounds found to help reduce blood sugar. It does so by improving insulin secretion from the pancreas, while improving the absorption of glucose by muscle tissue at the same time. [9]
This means it can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels simultaneously, making it a potent fighter against diabetes.
- It Can Boost Your Immune System
Several studies proved that dandelion extract has the power to inhibit viral and bacterial replication.
First, one study found that inulin, a natural prebiotic present in dandelion extract, was found to be effective in improving the bowel function of patients who suffered from chronic constipation.[10]
In another study, dandelion extract was proven effective against hepatitis B viruses through testing with artificially infected rat and duck cells. [11]
Although we are still at the early stages of confirming dandelion extract as an antiviral solution, these remain as promising evidence of dandelion root extract’s ability to fight against bacteria and viruses.
Best ways to incorporate Organic Dandelion Root Extract into your diet
Now that you’ve heard about all the great things dandelion root can do for your body, you might be wondering how it can be consumed. It may be a common plant, but its typically not seen as something that could be eaten.
For those who are new to dandelion roots, here are some simple and accessible methods of taking dandelion root.
Dandelion Root Tea
Like most herbal remedies, turning dandelion roots into tea is one of the best ways to maximize its benefits.
For the simplest recipe, a tablespoon of chopped dandelion root (roasted or raw) is enough to make 150ml of tea. This is the recommended dosage by the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, as it is considered safest for human consumption. [12]
If you want to add a bit more flavor, this recipe from Superfood Evolution might be more suitable for you[13]:
“Ingredients:
- 2T dandelion root
- 1/2t chopped ginger root
- 1 cinnamon stick or 1/2t cinnamon powder
- 3 star anise pods
- 2T red clover blossoms
- 1T nettle leaf
Directions:
Decoct the dandelion root, anise and the ginger root in 3 cups of water for 20 minutes. Infuse the other ingredients in a mason jar for another 15 minutes.”
Dandelion Root Powder
This powder can be either purchased or homemade. While store-bought powder is alright, making your own is better for guaranteed freshness. To make your own powder, simply grind some dry dandelion roots by hand or with a food processor/blender.
This simple powder can be added to food and drinks, two to three times a day. One of the best ways to incorporate it is by adding it to your favorite smoothies or yogurt bowls. If you prefer drinking it as a tea, you can simply dissolve this powder in hot water, adding lemon or honey to make it sweeter.
Dandelion Root Capsules
The essence of organic dandelion root extract is also readily available through capsules. If you’re not a fan of the idea of eating it raw or adding its powder to your food, dandelion root capsules are the next best option for you.
These capsules come in a variety of dosage and formulas. Before buying these capsules, it is best to consult your doctor first, especially if you are currently taking any other prescription medications.
Additional Information on Harvesting Dandelion Root:
If you’re interested in harvesting and making your own dandelion root remedies, you should picky of where your dandelions come from. The roots absorb everything around it, so it’s best to harvest dandelions planted in clean areas.
Avoid consuming dandelions that can be found in the following places: alongside roads, driveways, septic tanks, pools, air conditioning units, or barbecue grills. The dandelions can absorb the toxins from these objects/locations, which may poison you especially when consumed raw.
Traditionally, dandelions are harvested during the fall as inulin concentration is at its highest during this period.
After harvesting, dandelions can either be consumed immediately or preserved for long-term use. This is done by dehydrating them and storing them in a glass jar. Dehydrated dandelion roots can last up to one year with proper storage.
Precautions
Although the dandelion root extract comes with countless health benefits, there is only a certain level of consumption considered safe for adults.
Some people are actually allergic to some of the compounds present in dandelion root, so it is best to consult your doctor before taking ingesting them in any shape or form. As previously mentioned, contact dermatitis may occur, especially among children and those who already have allergies to related plant species.
Pregnant women, nursing women, and children should also avoid ingesting any dandelion root remedies as further studies are yet to be made on its long-term effects. If you’re trying for a baby, it’s best to avoid any dandelion extracts as it contains phytoestrogen, a substance that mimics estrogen. This can potentially lower female fertility and testosterone levels in men. [14]
Conclusion
The dandelion root is currently emerging as a potential herbal remedy for various diseases and physical injuries according. Its proclaimed health benefits have been gradually proven by research from the past five years.
Although it isn’t necessarily toxic, it’s best to avoid consumption among pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children, as further studies are yet to prove its safety.
In the meantime, dandelion root extract can be enjoyed as tea, a food additive, or in capsule form. Its anti-viral and anti-inflammatory capabilities make it a potent and all-natural immunity booster.
References
[1] Lis, B., & Olas, B. (2019). Pro-health activity of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale L.) and its food products–history and present. Journal of Functional Foods, 59, 40-48.
[2] Chatterjee, S. J., Ovadje, P., Mousa, M., Hamm, C., & Pandey, S. (2011). The efficacy of dandelion root extract in inducing apoptosis in drug-resistant human melanoma cells. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2011, 129045. https://doi.org/10.1155/2011/129045
[3] Ovadje P., Ammar S., Guerrero J., Arnason J., Pandey S. (2016) Dandelion root extract affects colorectal cancer proliferation and survival through the activation of multiple death signalling pathways. Oncotarget. 2016; 7: 73080-73100. Retrieved from https://www.oncotarget.com/article/11485/text/
[4] Khoo, H. E., Prasad, K. N., Kong, K. W., Jiang, Y., & Ismail, A. (2011). Carotenoids and their isomers: color pigments in fruits and vegetables. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 16(2), 1710–1738. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules16021710
[5] Wirngo, F. E., Lambert, M. N., & Jeppesen, P. B. (2016). The Physiological Effects of Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale) in Type 2 Diabetes. The review of diabetic studies : RDS, 13(2-3), 113–131. https://doi.org/10.1900/RDS.2016.13.113
[6] Yang, Y., & Li, S. (2015). Dandelion extracts protect human skin fibroblasts from UVB damage and cellular senescence. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2015. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/619560
[7] Warashina, T., Umehara, K., & Miyase, T. (2012). Constituents from the roots of Taraxacum platycarpum and their effect on proliferation of human skin fibroblasts. Chemical & pharmaceutical bulletin, 60(2), 205–212. https://doi.org/10.1248/cpb.60.205
[8] Rasmussen, A., & Jacob, S. E. (2017). Dandelion: an important allergen in atopic children. Dermatitis, 28(2), 166. https://doi.org/10.1097/DER.0000000000000262
[9] Tousch, D., Lajoix, A. D., Hosy, E., Azay-Milhau, J., Ferrare, K., Jahannault, C., Cros, G., & Petit, P. (2008). Chicoric acid, a new compound able to enhance insulin release and glucose uptake. Biochemical and biophysical research communications, 377(1), 131–135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.09.088
[10] Collado Yurrita, L., San Mauro Martín, I., Ciudad-Cabañas, M. J., Calle-Purón, M. E., & Hernández Cabria, M. (2014). Effectiveness of inulin intake on indicators of chronic constipation; a meta-analysis of controlled randomized clinical trials. Nutricion hospitalaria, 30(2), 244–252. https://doi.org/10.3305/nh.2014.30.2.7565
[11] Jia, Y. Y., Guan, R. F., Wu, Y. H., Yu, X. P., Lin, W. Y., Zhang, Y. Y., Liu, T., Zhao, J., Shi, S. Y., & Zhao, Y. (2014). Taraxacum mongolicum extract exhibits a protective effect on hepatocytes and an antiviral effect against hepatitis B virus in animal and human cells. Molecular medicine reports, 9(4), 1381–1387. https://doi.org/10.3892/mmr.2014.1925
[12] American Botanical Council. (2000) Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E.
[13] DANDELION ROOT BENEFITS AS A CLEANSING HERB. (n.d.) Retrieved from: https://www.superfoodevolution.com/dandelion-root-benefits.html
[14] Jargin, S. V. (2014). Soy and phytoestrogens: possible side effects. GMS German Medical Science, 12.
