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Dandelion Root Standardized Extract

Also known as: Dandelion root, common dandelion, Dandelion root extract, Taraxacum officinale

Overview

Dandelion root extract is derived from the roots of *Taraxacum officinale*, a widely distributed flowering plant. It contains various bioactive compounds including phenolics, flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and polysaccharides. Traditionally, it has been used for liver and digestive support, as well as for its diuretic effects. More recently, research has explored its potential antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. The current research base is moderate, consisting mainly of in vitro and animal studies, with some limited human data. While some evidence syntheses exist, high-quality clinical trials and systematic reviews are scarce, indicating a need for more rigorous research to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans.

Benefits

Dandelion root extract shows several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical studies. Its antidiabetic effects have been observed in alloxan-induced diabetic mice, where an aqueous extract (400 mg/kg) significantly reduced blood glucose by 62.33% (p ≤ 0.05), suggesting glucose-lowering potential through enhanced glucose uptake and enzyme inhibition related to sugar metabolism. For anticancer potential, in vitro studies indicate that dandelion root extract selectively induces apoptosis in colon cancer cells by disrupting mitochondrial membrane potential and increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS), without harming normal colon cells. Additionally, extracts demonstrate anti-inflammatory activity in vivo (50-200 mg/kg) and antioxidant effects in vitro, likely due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Some research also suggests cardiovascular protective effects, as leaf fractions have been shown to reduce platelet activation and thrombus formation.

How it works

Dandelion root extract exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. Its antidiabetic action is thought to involve the inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes like α-amylase and α-glucosidase, increased glucose uptake in hepatocytes, and possible modulation of renal glucose reabsorption. For its anticancer properties, the extract induces mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production selectively in cancer cells, which triggers apoptosis without causing DNA damage to healthy cells. The anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to the modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-1α, and the inhibition of various inflammatory pathways. The bioavailability of active compounds is not well-established, but they are presumed to be absorbed in the gut.

Side effects

Dandelion root extract is generally regarded as safe based on traditional use and animal studies, with no major safety concerns reported in limited human data. No significant adverse effects have been reported in the reviewed studies. However, allergic reactions are possible, particularly in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds). Potential drug interactions include its diuretic effect, which may interact with antihypertensive medications or lithium, although specific interactions have not been documented in high-quality clinical trials. Contraindications include known allergies to Asteraceae plants. Data on its safety during pregnancy and lactation are limited, so caution is advised for these populations. Overall, while generally well-tolerated, individuals with allergies or those on medication should consult a healthcare provider.

Dosage

The optimal dosage for dandelion root extract is not well-established due to a lack of robust clinical trials in humans. In animal models, an aqueous extract at 400 mg/kg demonstrated efficacy in reducing blood glucose, but human equivalent doses are not defined. Traditional use varies widely, and there are no standardized timing recommendations; it is typically taken orally as an extract or tea. The maximum safe dose has not been defined, as no toxicity was reported at studied doses in animals. Different forms may have varying effects; for instance, aqueous extracts show antidiabetic activity, while ethanol extracts exhibit anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Factors influencing absorption, such as co-administration with food or other supplements, have not been studied.

FAQs

Is dandelion root extract effective for diabetes?

Preclinical evidence supports glucose-lowering effects in animal models, but robust human clinical trials are currently lacking to confirm its efficacy in people with diabetes.

Can it be used for cancer treatment?

In vitro studies show selective anticancer activity against colon cancer cells. However, there is no clinical evidence to support its use as a cancer treatment in humans.

Is it safe to take daily?

Dandelion root extract is generally considered safe for daily use at traditional doses. However, individuals on medications or with known allergies should consult a healthcare provider.

How long does it take to see effects?

The time frame to observe effects is unknown in humans. Animal studies have shown effects within days to weeks, but this may not translate directly to human experience.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9498421/ – This in vivo and in vitro study investigated the antidiabetic effects of aqueous dandelion root extract. It found that 400 mg/kg of the extract significantly reduced blood glucose by 62.33% in alloxan-induced diabetic mice and increased glucose uptake in HepG2 cells, suggesting potential for glucose regulation. The study was well-controlled in an animal model but lacks human clinical translation.
https://www.oncotarget.com/article/11485/text/ – This in vitro study explored the anticancer potential of dandelion root extract on colon cancer cells. It demonstrated that the extract induced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and apoptosis selectively in colon cancer cell lines (HT-29) without harming normal colon cells (NCM460). While providing mechanistic insight, the findings are limited to in vitro conditions and require further in vivo and clinical validation.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10343869/ – This review summarizes various pharmacological effects of dandelion, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. It highlights that different extracts (ethanol, methanol) can induce apoptosis and reduce inflammation. The review is comprehensive but primarily relies on preclinical data, emphasizing the need for more human clinical trials to confirm these effects.