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- Pubmed.gov: Effect of 'Antidiabetics' Herbal Preparation on Serum Glucose and Fructosamine in NOD mice”; Petlevski, Hadzija, Slijpcevic, Juretic; 2001
- Pubmed.gov: Effect of 'Antidiabetics' Herbal Preparation on Serum Glucose and Fructosamine in NOD mice”; Petlevski, Hadzija, Slijpcevic, Juretic; 2001
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Dandelion Root & Diabetes
Dandelions are a commonly found plant and are frequently considered to be weeds. However, their leaves and roots are rich in vitamins and can be eaten. Dandelions have been used for centuries as an herbal treatment for many ailments, among them kidney and liver problems, stomach upset, and diabetes.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Forms
Dandelion herbs and roots are available in a variety of forms ranging from liquid extracts to capsules and tablets. Dried dandelion roots or leaves can be made into tea by steeping them in hot water. When using dandelion supplements or tea, take three times daily or as directed. You should always consult your doctor before beginning a new treatment or supplement.
- Dandelion herbs and roots are available in a variety of forms ranging from liquid extracts to capsules and tablets.
- When using dandelion supplements or tea, take three times daily or as directed.
Benefits
Burdock Root & Diabetes
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Dandelion may normalize blood sugar levels and improve cholesterol, both of which can improve diabetic symptoms. In 2001, a study by scientists Petlevski, Hadzija, Slijepcevic, and Juretic at the University of Zagreb published in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” reported that treatment with an extract containing dandelion lowered blood sugar in diabetic mice 1. However, although dandelion supplements have traditionally been used to help treat diabetes, more scientific evidence is needed to support this claim.
Considerations
Dandelion may increase heartburn or irritate the skin. Overuse of dandelion supplements may result in gastrointestinal upset as dandelion is thought to have a laxative and diuretic effect.
Warnings
Holy Basil & Blood Pressure
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Some people may have allergic reactions to dandelion. Dandelion can also interact with certain prescription drugs, including lithium, antibiotics, and antacids. Consult your doctor before beginning to take dandelion supplements.
Related Articles
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Dandelion
- Pubmed.gov: Effect of 'Antidiabetics' Herbal Preparation on Serum Glucose and Fructosamine in NOD mice”; Petlevski, Hadzija, Slijpcevic, Juretic; 2001
- Dandelion greens, raw. FoodData Central. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Updated 2019.
- Wild greens. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Updated 2018.
- Vitamin A fact sheet for health professionals. National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Updated 2020.
- Wirngo FE, Lambert MN, Jeppesen PB. The physiological effects of dandelion (taraxacum officinale) in type 2 diabetes. Rev Diabet Stud. 2016;13(2-3):113-131. doi:10.1900/RDS.2016.13.113
- Vitamin C fact sheet for health professionals. National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Updated 2020.
- Choi UK, Lee OH, Yim JH, et al. Hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) root and leaf on cholesterol-fed rabbits. Int J Mol Sci. 2010;11(1):67-78. doi:10.3390/ijms11010067
- Potassium fact sheet for health professionals. National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Updated 2020.
- Ovadje P, Ammar S, Guerrero JA, Arnason JT, Pandey S. Dandelion root extract affects colorectal cancer proliferation and survival through the activation of multiple death signalling pathways. Oncotarget. 2016;7(45):73080-73100. doi:10.18632/oncotarget.11485
- Ledford DK. Biofreeze allergy and compositae. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. Updated 2017.
- Dandelion. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Updated 2019.
- Mahr S. Dandelion, Taraxacum officinale. University of Wisconsin-Madison. Master Gardener Program Division of Extension. Updated 2015.
- Coleman E, Delea K, Everstine K, Reimann D, Ripley D. Handling practices of fresh leafy greens in restaurants: receiving and training. J Food Prot. 2013;76(12):2126-31. doi:10.4315/0362-028X.JFP-13-127
Writer Bio
Ellen Smith began writing for the Web in 2010. She has published several scientific articles on topics ranging from circadian rhythms to drug effects. She has attended many writing workshops, most recently a science journalism course, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Smith College. Smith is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in neuroscience.