Herbs

Dandelion

Also called: taraxacum

Leaves and root of the common weed.

Why people take it
Water retention, liver, digestion.
What the evidence says
Little human evidence.
How it is usually taken
As tea or 500 mg to 2 g of root a day.
Be careful
May add to diuretics and lithium; allergy in people allergic to daisies.
Medicines it can interact with
May add to diuretics and lithium levels; may reduce quinolone antibiotic absorption.

Other herbs

EchinaceaElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomileLemon balmPassionflowerKavaRhodiolaGinkgoMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicorice

Common questions

What is Dandelion?

Leaves and root of the common weed.

Why do people take Dandelion?

Water retention, liver, digestion.

Does Dandelion work?

Little human evidence.

How much Dandelion do people take?

As tea or 500 mg to 2 g of root a day.

Is Dandelion safe?

May add to diuretics and lithium; allergy in people allergic to daisies.

Does Dandelion interact with medicines?

May add to diuretics and lithium levels; may reduce quinolone antibiotic absorption.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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