Dandelion 

This fact sheet provides basic information about dandelion—common names, 

uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Dandelion 

greens are edible and are a rich source of vitamin A. Dandelion has been used in 

many traditional medical systems, including Native American and traditional 

Arabic medicine. 

Common Names—dandelion, lion’s tooth, blowball 

Latin Name—Taraxacum officinale 

What It Is Used For 

•	 Historically, dandelion was most commonly used to treat liver diseases, 

kidney diseases, and spleen problems. Less commonly, dandelion was used 

to treat digestive problems and skin conditions. 

•	 Today, dandelion is used by some as a liver or kidney “tonic,” as a diuretic, 

and for minor digestive problems. 

How It Is Used 

The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, are used fresh or 

dried in teas, capsules, or extracts. Dandelion leaves are used in salads or as a 

cooked green, and the flowers are used to make wine. 

What the Science Says 

There is no compelling scientific evidence for using dandelion as a treatment for 

any medical condition. 

Side Effects and Cautions 

•	 Dandelion use is generally considered safe. However, there have been 

rare reports of upset stomach and diarrhea, and some people are allergic 

to the plant. 

•	 People with an inflamed or infected gallbladder, or blocked bile ducts, 

should avoid using dandelion. 

•	 Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative 

practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your 

health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care. 
 

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Sources 

Dandelion. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturaldatabase.com on 

July 2, 2007. 

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed at http://www.naturalstandard.com on 

June 28, 2007. 

Dandelion root with herb. In: Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckman J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E 

Monographs. Newton, MA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:359-366. 

For More Information 

Visit the NCCAM Web site at nccam.nih.gov and view: 

• What’s in the Bottle? An Introduction to Dietary Supplements at nccam.nih.gov/health/bottle/ 

• Herbal Supplements: Consider Safety, Too at nccam.nih.gov/health/supplement-safety/ 

NCCAM Clearinghouse 

Toll-free in the U.S.: 1-888-644-6226 

TTY (for deaf and hard-of-hearing callers): 1-866-464-3615 

E-mail: info@nccam.nih.gov 

CAM on PubMed 

Web site: nccam.nih.gov/camonpubmed/ 

NIH Office of Dietary Supplements 

Web site: www.ods.od.nih.gov 

NIH National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus 

Dandelion Listing: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-dandelion.html 

This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged. 


NCCAM has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute 

for the medical expertise and advice of your primary health care provider. We encourage 

you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The 

mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCAM. 

National Institutes of Health 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 

D302 

Created January 2006 

Updated April 2008 

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