Taraxacum officinale, root. A classic bitter herb used for appetite, bloating and bile flow, and a natural source of the prebiotic fiber inulin.
What the research supports
- Appetite and mild indigestion: recognized by European regulators as a traditional herbal medicine, but modern trials are few.
- Prebiotic fiber: contains inulin, though a tea or extract provides far less than prebiotic studies use.
- Water retention: one small pilot study found more frequent urination, using the leaf, not the root.
- Liver detox claims: animal and lab studies only.
The dose that was actually studied
About 3 to 4 g of dried root a day as tea, or a liquid extract taken 15 to 30 minutes before meals. Follow the label.
Who should not take it
- Anyone allergic to ragweed, daisies or chamomile.
- People with gallstones or a blocked bile duct.
- People taking diuretics, lithium, quinolone antibiotics or diabetes medication, unless their doctor agrees.
Our take
A gentle, food-grade bitter for occasional bloating after rich meals. Not a liver cleanse. Read our full dandelion root digestion guide for every study and the details.
Our pick
Hawaii Pharm Dandelion Root Alcohol-Free Liquid Extract: Dandelion root in an alcohol-free glycerite, mildly sweet to soften the bitterness.
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For general education only, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement, especially if you take medication or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
