7 Science Backed Wonders of Dandelion Root

Dandelion as a supplement, extract, tea, food, or grind has been used for centuries to offer protection against oxidative stress, liver disease, high cholesterol and blood pressure, high blood sugar, cancer, kidney issues, and infections. It can improve gut health, support your microbiome, help keep your bones strong and some studies show it can even help promote weight loss. Yeah, it’s kind of an unsung hero. Let’s take a look at all of it’s awesomeness.

1. First, numerous studies show it can kill, prevent, or slow the growth of a variety of cancer cells (melanoma, prostate, esophageal, pancreatic, leukemia, and liver). A 2011 study treated skin cancer cells with dandelion extract and found that it began killing off cancer cells within just 48 hours of treatment. Another study in Oncotarget exhibited that dandelion root extract was able to kill 95 percent of colon cancer cells within two days. Pretty amazing right?
2. Studies suggest that Dandelion consumption can lead to a reduction bad LDL cholesterol, an increase in beneficial HDL cholesterol as well as dandelion showing potential in helping normalize blood sugar levels and lower high blood pressure.
3. Dandelion is rich in inulin fiber, a powerful prebiotic fiber to nourish your microbiome (gut bacteria).
4. Dandelion is high in antioxidants, polyphenols, coumarins and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives — which helps to combat aging by slowing damage from oxidative stress.
5. Many cultures (India, Russia, China, and Native Americans) have used dandelion medicinally for centuries to help support the function of the liver, kidneys and gall bladder as well as other digestive issues like heartburn and upset stomach.
6. In addition to its many other health benefits, dandelion root also possess antimicrobial properties. One A study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that dandelion root was especially effective against certain strains of bacteria that are responsible for staph infections and foodborne illness.
7. Dandelion is rich in calcium and vitamin k to help maintain bone density!

A quick caveat. If you have any health related issues like liver disease, diabetes or kidney problems avoid dandelion and consult your doctor about the safety of incorporating it. Generally speaking it’s always best to talk to your doctor before starting supplementation of any kind – Dandelion obviously included. This is especially important if you are on medication. In particular, dandelion can interact with antacids, blood-thinning medications, diuretics, antibiotics, and medications to treat diabetes.