Dandelion (Taraxacum Officianale) Root / Dandelion (Taraxacum Officianale) Leaf
Benefits of Dandelion
- Digestion
- Fluid balance
- Where it's from: Across the Northern Hemisphere
- Form: Powder
- Food source: Plant
What is Dandelion?
Dandelion, which grows naturally all over the Northern Hemisphere, has been eaten in cuisines for centuries. The roots can be roasted, even used as a substitute for coffee, and the leaves are eaten raw in salads.
Whilst we wouldn't necessarily recommend putting a Dandelion from a field into your cappuccino, it is a bitter green like rocket, kale, watercress and spinach. Bitter greens are traditionally thought to get the digestive juices flowing. Dandelion also has a long history of use in traditional practice across several cultures.
What does the research say about Dandelion?
Dandelion has been studied for its role in gastrointestinal movement, the pace at which food travels through the stomach and gut. A review of the research has looked at dandelion in relation to the digestive tract more widely.
Dandelion has also been studied as a natural diuretic, meaning it increases the production of urine.
You may also enjoy reading 'What is GORD? Best 3 foods to eat and avoid' and 'What colour should your urine be?'.
Why it's in UltraEnergy
Traditionally used as a gentle detoxifier and digestive tonic, Dandelion Leaf may support energy through liver and kidney function, reducing fatigue associated with sluggish detoxification or water retention. It also contains vitamins and minerals that support electrolyte balance and vitality.1
Why it's in PMS Hero®
Dandelion Root can be helpful for managing PMS symptoms due to its diuretic properties, which help reduce bloating and water retention. It supports liver health, aiding in the detoxification of excess hormones that may contribute to PMS-related mood swings and discomfort. Dandelion Root’s anti-inflammatory effects may reduce cramping and support overall digestive health during the premenstrual phase.
Diuretic action: Dandelion Root contains potassium and taraxasterol, which have diuretic properties that promote fluid elimination. This action can help alleviate water retention and bloating, common symptoms of PMS. The mechanism involves inhibition of renal tubular reabsorption of sodium, thereby enhancing urinary output.2
Liver support: Dandelion supports liver detoxification by increasing bile production, mediated by compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which stimulate hepatic function. Improved liver function can enhance hormonal clearance, helping to balance oestrogen levels and improve PMS symptoms.3
Antioxidant activity: Rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids, Dandelion Root helps to neutralise reactive oxygen species (ROS), thus reducing oxidative stress that may worsen PMS symptoms. This involves the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase.4
Why it's in Debloat & Detox
Dandelion promotes liver health, aids in digestive discomfort, and reduces bloating. Dandelion is a diuretic cholagogue and has antioxidant properties.
Increased bile production: Dandelion root stimulates the production of bile, helping with the digestion of fats and the elimination of toxins from the liver. Many toxins are excreted in bile, and increased bile production is one way in which practitioners can support the detoxification functions of clients. Dandelion contains sesquiterpenelactones, which give it a bitter taste and increase bile production.3
Diuretic effect: Dandelions’ diuretic function helps in reducing fluid retention, a common cause of bloating. Increasing urination helps the body flush out excess fluid and supports renal detoxification.5
Antioxidant protection: Dandelion has potent antioxidant effects, which aid in reducing inflammation in the liver and support a more comfortable digestion.
Why it's in MenoFriend® and PeriMenoFriend®
Dandelion is rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids.
Hormonal modulation: Dandelion upregulates hormone receptors, influences oestrogen metabolism and improves the body’s response to oestrogen and progesterone.6
Antioxidant properties: Dandelion may help improve overall well-being during this transition by reducing oxidative damage.7
Anti-inflammatory: The bioactive compounds in Dandelion inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines, potentially alleviating discomfort, and improving mobility and pain in menopausal women.8
Dong Quai
Dong Quai has been extensively studied for helping regulate hormones.
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Artichoke
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Burdock
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Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes including amylase, lipase and protease aid with the breakdown of food and facilitate digestion.
