Dandelion Root And Leaf Extract
Also known as: Dandelion, Dandelion root extract, Dandelion leaf extract, Taraxacum officinale
Overview
Dandelion root and leaf extracts are derived from the common dandelion plant, *Taraxacum officinale*, which is widely distributed globally. Traditionally, dandelion has been utilized for its potential to support digestive health, act as a diuretic, protect the liver, and reduce inflammation. These extracts contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, triterpenes, and polysaccharides, which are believed to contribute to their therapeutic effects. While there is a moderate level of research, including in vitro, animal, and some human studies, high-quality clinical trials specifically on dandelion root/leaf extracts are still limited. The current evidence base is primarily preclinical, with systematic reviews or meta-analyses being scarce.
Benefits
Dandelion root and leaf extracts show promising, albeit mostly preclinical, benefits. In vitro studies indicate **anticancer potential**, with extracts inhibiting proliferation and metastasis of breast cancer cells (MCF-7, MDA-MB231) by modulating genes like MMP-9, IL-1β, and p53, and showing additive effects with all-trans retinoic acid. Another study highlighted its ability to inhibit triple-negative breast cancer cell metabolism and downregulate oncogenic genes CHKA and FADS2. For **cardiovascular support**, in vitro research suggests dandelion extracts can dose-dependently inhibit platelet aggregation, indicating potential antithrombotic properties without damaging platelets. Phenolic fractions from leaves also exhibit antioxidant and hemostatic benefits, potentially mitigating cardiovascular risks associated with oxidative stress. **Lipid metabolism and liver protection** have been observed in animal studies (rabbits), where supplementation improved lipid profiles by increasing HDL and lowering LDL and triglycerides. It also enhanced hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities (GSH, GPx, SOD) and reduced liver lipid peroxidation, demonstrating hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects. While traditionally noted, clinical evidence for **diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects** remains limited.
How it works
The mechanisms of action for dandelion extracts are attributed to their diverse bioactive compounds. Their **anticancer effects** involve modulating gene expression related to metastasis and inflammation, inhibiting cancer cell metabolism pathways (e.g., glycerophospholipid metabolism), and inducing apoptosis. The **antiplatelet effects** are likely mediated by phenolic compounds and polysaccharides that inhibit platelet aggregation pathways induced by substances like arachidonic acid or collagen. **Hepatoprotective and lipid-lowering effects** are linked to the activation of antioxidant enzymes and the reduction of oxidative stress within liver tissues. Key bioactive compounds contributing to these effects include hydroxycinnamic acids, triterpenes, steroids, and low-molecular-weight polysaccharides, which interact with various biological pathways.
Side effects
Dandelion root and leaf extract is generally considered safe based on its long history of traditional use and limited clinical data. Adverse effects are rare, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions, particularly if sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, chrysanthemums). No significant adverse effects have been reported in in vitro or animal studies at the tested doses. However, due to its observed antiplatelet effects in vitro, there is a theoretical concern for potential interactions with anticoagulant medications (blood thinners), which could increase the risk of bleeding. Data on contraindications and use in special populations are limited. Therefore, caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with bleeding disorders. Individuals with gallstones or bile duct obstruction should also consult a healthcare professional before use due to its potential to stimulate bile flow.
Dosage
There is currently no standardized or clinically established dosing guideline for dandelion root and leaf extracts due to the lack of robust human clinical trials. Animal studies have utilized dietary supplementation, and in vitro effective concentrations vary widely (e.g., 1.5–4 mg/mL of extract for anticancer effects). Traditional use dosages vary considerably and are often based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific rigor. Commercial supplements typically provide root or leaf extracts, sometimes standardized to specific phenolic content, but optimal standardization for efficacy is not yet defined. Information regarding absorption and bioavailability in humans is limited. Some preclinical research suggests that co-administration with other agents, such as all-trans retinoic acid, might enhance certain effects. Users should follow product-specific recommendations and consult a healthcare professional, especially given the lack of comprehensive human safety and efficacy data.
FAQs
Is dandelion root and leaf extract effective for cancer?
Preclinical (in vitro and animal) data show promising anticancer potential, but human clinical trials are currently lacking to confirm efficacy.
Can it help with cholesterol?
Animal studies suggest it may improve lipid profiles, but human evidence is insufficient to make definitive claims about cholesterol-lowering effects.
Is it safe to take with blood thinners?
Caution is warranted due to potential antiplatelet activity observed in vitro, which could theoretically increase bleeding risk. Consult a doctor.
How long does it take to see effects?
The time frame for observing effects in humans is unknown, as most studies are preclinical or short-term animal models. Human data are not available.
Research Sources
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-42177-z – This in vitro study investigated dandelion extract's effects on breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB231). It found that dandelion extract, especially when combined with all-trans retinoic acid, exhibited additive cytotoxicity and modulated genes related to metastasis and inflammation, suggesting anticancer potential.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.942996/full – This in vitro research focused on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines. The study demonstrated that dandelion extract downregulated oncogenic metabolic genes, specifically CHKA and FADS2, indicating a potential role in inhibiting cancer cell metabolism.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9498421/ – This in vitro study used human platelet-rich plasma to assess the antiplatelet effects of dandelion root extract. It found a dose-dependent inhibition of platelet aggregation, suggesting antithrombotic potential without causing platelet damage.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2820990/ – This animal study on rabbits investigated the effects of dandelion root and leaf supplementation on lipid profiles and liver health. The findings indicated that supplementation improved lipid profiles, enhanced hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities, and reduced lipid peroxidation, demonstrating hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects.
