Potential Benefits of Dandelion Leaf and Root

Dandelion has been used for centuries as an herbal tonic.  It was mentioned as far back as 659 B.C.E. in the Tang Materia Medica.  The herb is used to support healthy liver function(1), healthy urinary function and has a mild diuretic action.

Dandelion, in the present day, is much maligned as a common weed unwanted in your garden and yard yet has a multitude of health benefits.  Packed full of nutrients(1), Vitamins A, C, K, E and small amounts of other vitamins, the entire plant can be used fresh in salads.

Here at Enerhealth we have been extracting the leaf and the root for years, and have them as single herbal extracts and are often used in many of our blends (for example, Liver Cleanse, Enerfood, Heart Support, Lung Renewal, Bladder Cleanse).  In our extraction process we use a combination of water and alcohol to maximize the compounds extracted and to make sure the product is shelf stable for long periods of time.  

Dandelion is nothing short of amazing.  In addition to the vitamins there are antioxidants(1) such as beta carotene and polyphenols which provide protection against cellular damage and oxidative stress. Some studies also have indicated that dandelion extracts and compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body(2).

There are so many health benefits attributed to this plant it’s surprising how few people are aware of them.  The traditional literature states that, in addition to the benefits already listed, it may help in weight loss, may support healthy digestion, may be an effective supplement to aid in healthy skin(3) and may help boost your immune system(3).  

There are so many more benefits that we cannot list here due to FDA regulations so we urge you to search dandelion leaf benefits on your own.  There is some exciting new research and it deserves some attention.

Sources:

(1) The Physiological Effects of Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale) in Type 2 Diabetes

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5553762/

(1) Hypolipidemic and Antioxidant Effects of Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Root and Leaf on Cholesterol-Fed Rabbits

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2820990/

(3) Taraxacum mongolicum extract exhibits a protective effect on hepatocytes and an antiviral effect against hepatitis B virus in animal and human cells

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24481875/