Last verified: 17 days ago
Dandelion Root
Also known as: Taraxacum officinale, Taraxacum root, dandelion extract, DRE
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Traditional herb with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity in lab studies. No human trials yet.
-
What it does
Dandelion root is an extract from the common dandelion plant (Taraxacum officinale), used for centuries in traditional medicine. Lab and animal studies suggest it has anti-inflammatory properties...
-
Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
-
Clinical dose
No established dose from provided studies
-
Found in
Micro Ingredients Liver Advanced+, NOW Detox Cleanse 90ct, Swanson Full Spectrum Dandelion Root and 4 more
What the Science Says
Dandelion root is an extract from the common dandelion plant (Taraxacum officinale), used for centuries in traditional medicine. Lab and animal studies suggest it has anti-inflammatory properties and may protect the gut lining, liver, and kidneys from damage. Some cell-based research shows it can slow the growth of certain cancer cells, though this has not been tested in humans.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to treat cancer in humans — all cancer findings are from lab dishes, not people. No clinical trials show it reliably detoxes the liver or kidneys in humans. No evidence it causes meaningful weight loss. Don't expect it to replace prescribed medications for digestive disease.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dandelion root extract reduced colitis symptoms and inflammation markers in mice.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No human dose established
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Dandelion root extract slowed growth of colorectal and breast cancer cells in lab studies.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No human dose established
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Dandelion extract reduced liver and kidney damage markers in rats exposed to a food preservative.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 40 mg/kg in rats — no human equivalent established
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic or bioavailability studies were included in the provided data
Red Flags to Watch For
- Zero human clinical trials in the provided evidence — all findings come from cell cultures or animal models
- Doses used in animal and lab studies cannot be directly translated to safe or effective human doses
- Over 1,000 supplement products on the market despite no established human efficacy data
- May interact with diuretics, blood thinners, or diabetes medications — no safety data from provided studies
Products Containing Dandelion Root
See how Dandelion Root is used in these analyzed products:
Micro Ingredients Liver Advanced+
Supplement
NOW Detox Cleanse 90ct
Supplement
Swanson Full Spectrum Dandelion Root
Supplement
Live it Up Super Greens
Supplement
Renew Life 3-Day Cleanse
Supplement
Arrae Bloat
Supplement
Renew Life 3 Day Cleanse Total Body Reset
Supplement
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Dandelion Root do?
Traditional herb with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity in lab studies. No human trials yet.
What is the effective dose of Dandelion Root?
No established dose from provided studies
Is Dandelion Root safe?
Zero human clinical trials in the provided evidence — all findings come from cell cultures or animal models
What doesn't Dandelion Root do?
Not proven to treat cancer in humans — all cancer findings are from lab dishes, not people.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25