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What
is Dandelion?
Dandelion is closely related to chicory,
dandelion is a common plant worldwide and the bane of those
looking for the perfect lawn. The plant grows to a height
of about 12 inches, producing spatula-like leaves and yellow
flowers that bloom year-round. Upon maturation, the flower
turns into the characteristic puffball containing seeds
that are dispersed in the wind. The leaves and root are
used in herbal supplements.
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Why
Dandelion? Dandelion Benefits
Dandelion has been used in connection
with the constipation (root), Edema (water retention) (leaves)Indigestion
and heartburn (leaves and root), Liver support (root)Pregnancy
and postpartum support (leaves and root).
Dandelion is commonly used as a food.
The leaves are used in salads and teas, while the roots
are sometimes used as a coffee substitute. Dandelion leaves
and roots have been used for hundreds of years to treat
liver, gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some
traditions, dandelion is considered a blood purifier and
is used for conditions as varied as eczema and cancer. As
is the case today, dandelion leaves have also been used
historically to treat water retention.
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Dandelion
Supplements (Dandelion Ingredients)
The primary constituents responsible
for dandelion's action on the digestive system and liver
are the bitter principles. Previously referred to as taraxacin,
these constituents are sesquiterpene lactones of the eudesmanolide
and germacranolide type, and are unique to dandelion.1 Dandelion
is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The leaves
have a high content of vitamin A as well as moderate amounts
of vitamin D, vitamin C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon,
magnesium, zinc, and manganese.
An animal study found that at high amounts
(2 grams per 2.2 pounds [1 kg] of body weight), the leaves
possess diuretic effects comparable to the prescription
diuretic furosemide (Lasix?).3 However, to date, these results
have not been demonstrated in human clinical trials. Since
edema, or water retention, may be a sign of a more serious
disease, people should seek the guidance of a physician
before using dandelion leaves for either of these conditions.
The bitter compounds in the leaves and
root help stimulate digestion and are mild laxatives.4 These
bitter principles also increase bile production in the gallbladder
and bile flow from the liver.5 For this reason dandelion
is recommended by some herbalists for people with sluggish
liver function due to alcohol abuse or poor diet. The increase
in bile flow may help improve fat (including cholesterol)
metabolism in the body.
>
Click here for GNC Herbal Plus Fingerprinted Dandelion,
500 mg, Capsules
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What
To Know Before Taking Echinacea Supplements?
How much is usually taken?
As a general liver/gallbladder tonic
and to stimulate digestion, 1/2-1 teaspoon (3-5 grams) of
the dried root or 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) of a tincture
made from the root can be used three times per day.6 Some
experts recommend the alcohol-based tincture because the
bitter principles are more soluble in alcohol.
As a mild diuretic or appetite stimulant,
1-2 teaspoons (4-10 grams) of dried leaves can be added
to a 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water and drunk as a decoction.8
Or, 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) of fresh juice or 1/2-1 teaspoon
(2-5 ml) of tincture made from the leaves can be used three
times per day. Fresh dandelion leaves can be eaten as part
of a salad.
There are only a few nutrients manufactures
produce Dandelion supplements. GNC's Herbal Plus Fingerprinted
Dandelion is the best product among all. It contains no
sugar, no starch, no artificial colors, no artificial flavors,
sodium free, no wheat, no gluten, no corn, no soy, no dairy,
yeast free. It is the purest Dandelion supplement product
on the market today.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Dandelion leaf and root should not be
used by people with gallstones without the supervision of
a healthcare practitioner.9 People with an obstruction of
the bile ducts should not take dandelion. In cases of stomach
ulcer or gastritis, dandelion should be used cautiously,
as it may cause overproduction of stomach acid. Those experiencing
fluid or water retention should consult a doctor before
taking dandelion leaves. The milky latex in the stem and
leaves of fresh dandelion may cause an allergic rash in
some people.
Dandelion root contains approximately
40% inulin,10 a fiber widely distributed in fruits, vegetables
and plants. Inulin is classified as a food ingredient (not
as an additive) and is considered to be safe to eat.11 In
fact, inulin is a significant part of the daily diet of
most of the world's population.12 However, there is a report
of a 39-year old man having a life-threatening allergic
reaction after consuming high amounts of inulin from multiple
sources.13 Allergy to inulin in this individual was confirmed
by laboratory tests. Such sensitivities are exceedingly
rare. Moreover, this man did not take dandelion. Nevertheless,
people with a confirmed sensitivity to inulin should avoid
dandelion.
Are there any drug interactions?
Certain medications may interact with
dandelion. Refer to the drug interactions safety check for
a list of those medications
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