Botanical
Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)
Also known as: Taraxacum officinale, Dandelion, Lion's tooth
C
Evidence
Traditional liver tonic and mild diuretic that supports bile flow and gentle detoxification.
Primary uses
- Liver support
- Mild diuretic
- Bile flow
- Digestive bitter
How it works
- Gentle bile stimulant
- Mild diuretic action
- Bitter digestive stimulant
- Supports liver detoxification
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500-2000mg root extract daily or 2-3 cups tea
- Timing
- Before meals
- With food
- As bitter before meals or with food
- Duration
- Long-term use traditional
- Special populations
- Those seeking gentle liver support
Forms
- Root extract
- Leaf extract
- Roasted root tea
- Whole plant
Safety
Common side effects
- Rare: GI upset
- Allergic reactions (daisy family)
- Increased urination
Contraindications
- Bile duct obstruction
- Gallstones
- Daisy/ragweed allergy
Evidence notes
Traditional use, limited clinical research
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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