What is dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Taraxacum officinale is a plant. The above ground
parts are used as natural herbal supplements and for many conditions. There is
little evidence that it is effective for any condition. Taraxacum officinale
contains chemicals that may increase urine production and decrease pain and
swelling. Check with your health-care professional before using herbs or herbal
supplements.
What brand names are available for dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)?
Dandelion, Blowball, Lion’s Teeth
Is dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) available as a generic drug?
Yes
Do I need a prescription for dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)?
No
What are the side effects of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)?
Side effects of Taraxacum officinale are abdominal discomfort,
diarrhea, heartburn, increased heart rate,
bruising and bleeding, excessive
urination, and increased potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
What is the dosage for dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)?
There is no established dosing. Follow the manufacturers recommendation for
each product.
Safe and effective use of Taraxacum officinale supplement is not established
for individuals under the age of 18.
Which drugs or supplements interact with dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)?
: Taraxacum officinale should be used with caution with
quinolone antibiotics like ciprofloxacin (Cipro), levofloxacin (Levaquin), and
moxifloxacin (Avelox) because it may reduce the absorption of these antibiotics
and may decrease their effectiveness. Check with your doctor before using this
herbal product.
Taraxacum officinale may reduce the breakdown of some drugs by the liver,
increasing blood levels of these drugs. Some examples include propranolol
(Inderal), amitriptyline (Elavil), haloperidol (Haldol), and ondansetron
(Zofran).
Taraxacum officinale contains potassium. If combined with potassium sparring
diuretics (water pills) such as
spironolactone
(Alkdactone) there may be significant
increases in blood potassium levels.
Taraxacum officinale may increase urine production, so it may affect how
lithium
(Eskalith, Lithobid) may be removed from the body. Increased urine production can slow down
lithium removal from the body, leading to increased lithium levels. Adjustments
in lithium dose may be required.
Taraxacum officinale may slow down blood clotting and increase the risk of
bleeding. Therefore, Taraxacum officinale should be used with caution with
medications like aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), enoxaparin
(Lovenox), diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen (Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve,
Naprosyn).
QUESTION
According to the USDA, there is no difference between a “portion” and a “serving.”
See Answer
Is dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known whether Taraxacum officinale enters
breast
milk. It should be avoided by nursing mothers to avoid harm to the newborn.
What else should I know about dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)?
What preparations of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) are available?
Taraxacum officinale is available as capsules, liquid extract,
and tea forms. Concentration of Taraxacum officinale may vary from
product-to-product due to multiple manufacturers producing various products.
Products that contain Taraxacum officinale also contain other herbs.
How should I keep dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) stored?
Due to multiple manufacturers making different forms of Taraxacum officinale, storage requirements may vary based on individual manufacturer
practices.