Dandelion: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is an herb native to Europe. The leaf, flower, and root have been used for various infections, but with little evidence.

Dandelion is found throughout mild climates of the northern hemisphere. It contains chemicals that might decrease swelling, increase urine production, and prevent crystals from forming in the urine that could lead to infections in the kidneys and urinary tract.

People use dandelion for conditions such as swollen tonsils, kidney infections, UTIs, and many others, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Dandelion overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Dandelion is likely safe for most people when consumed in the amounts commonly found in food. It is possibly safe when taken in larger amounts. Dandelion might cause allergic reactions, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or heartburn in some people.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if dandelion is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if dandelion is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Eczema: People with eczema seem to have a higher chance of having an allergic reaction to dandelion. If you have eczema, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking dandelion.

Bleeding disorders: Dandelion might slow blood clotting. In theory, taking dandelion might increase the risk for bruising and bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.

Ragweed allergy: People who are allergic to ragweed and related plants (daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds) might also be allergic to dandelion. But conflicting data exists. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking dandelion.

Surgery: Dandelion might slow blood clotting and lower blood sugar. It might cause extra bleeding and problems with low blood sugar during and after surgery. Stop using dandelion at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Kidney failure: Oxalate is a chemical that can build up in the kidneys. Dandelion might reduce how much oxalate is released through urine. In theory, this might increase the risk for complications in people with kidney problems.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with Dandelion
Dandelion root might slow blood clotting. Taking dandelion root along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Antibiotics (Quinolone antibiotics) interacts with Dandelion
Dandelion might decrease how much antibiotic the body absorbs. Taking dandelion along with certain antibiotics might decrease the effectiveness of these antibiotics.
Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) substrates) interacts with Dandelion
Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Dandelion might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
Medications changed by the liver (Glucuronidated drugs) interacts with Dandelion
Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Dandelion might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
Water pills (Potassium-sparing diuretics) interacts with Dandelion
Dandelion contains significant amounts of potassium. Some "water pills" can also increase potassium levels in the body. Taking some "water pills" along with dandelion might cause too much potassium to be in the body.
Lithium interacts with Dandelion
Dandelion might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Taking dandelion might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium.
Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with Dandelion
Dandelion might lower blood sugar levels. Taking dandelion along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of dandelion might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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Dandelion - Uses, Side Effects, and More

Overview

Uses & Effectiveness

Side Effects

Special Precautions and Warnings

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with Dandelion

Antibiotics (Quinolone antibiotics) interacts with Dandelion

Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) substrates) interacts with Dandelion

Medications changed by the liver (Glucuronidated drugs) interacts with Dandelion

Water pills (Potassium-sparing diuretics) interacts with Dandelion

Lithium interacts with Dandelion

Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with Dandelion

Dosing