Herb library · Herb · Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion
The common lawn weed, whose leaves are eaten as greens and whose root is sold for digestion and joint pain. Very little research exists, and there is no compelling evidence it helps any health condition.
Traditional use
Native to Europe and now found across the temperate Northern Hemisphere. The flowers, leaves and root have traditionally been used in Mexican and other North American medicine. Today dandelion products taken by mouth are promoted for indigestion, and products taken by mouth or put on the skin for joint pain.
What studies show
No studies in people of this herb on its own yet. What is known of it comes from the traditions that use it.
- Insufficient
Indigestion, joint pain and other uses: very little research exists and there is no compelling scientific evidence for any health condition. Only preliminary laboratory studies have looked at anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral properties.
Be careful of
Cautions
- NoteLikely safe in the amounts found in food; less is known about larger amounts.
- AllergyOn the skin it may cause an allergic reaction in people with eczema (atopic dermatitis). Evidence conflicts on reactions in people sensitive to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds and daisies.
- InteractionThere are theoretical reasons to expect interactions with diabetes medicines, blood thinners (anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs) and water pills, among others.
- PregnancyLittle is known about amounts greater than food amounts during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Ask a clinicianTalk with a clinician or pharmacist before using this if you take prescription medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are giving it to a child.
From the old books
What herbals and dispensaries of the past printed. History, in their words.
“The young leaves are frequently used as a salad or greens. The whole plant, when broken or wounded, exudes a white, bitter juice, the sensible qualities of which are said to be greater during period of inflorescence.”
Sources
- Dandelion: Usefulness and Safety (opens in a new tab) · NCCIH · read September 25, 2026
Reviewed September 25, 2026.