7 Benefits & Uses Of Dandelion for Liver, Heart, Skin, Digestive Function & More

Dandelions, the same yellow-flowered weeds that grow in most American yards, are one of traditional herbalism’s most cherished plants.

The leaves, flowers, and roots have all been used to support various aspects of health, including as a cleansing and nutritive tonic, for liver support, and to aid digestion*.

Dandelions have also been the subject of various research studies aimed at uncovering the potential mechanisms behind their traditional uses. 

In this article, we’ll examine the research behind seven possible benefits of Dandelions and how to use them at home as a functional food, supplement, tea, and topical.

Traditional Uses Of Dandelion

Herbalists and traditional practitioners, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine doctors, have used Dandelion as a health tonic for centuries. 

Its presence in the early Spring has earned it a cult following as a cleansing and liver-supportive herb. Its bitter properties make it a popular aperitif for digestive support—alone or in multi-herbal bitter formulas. 

However, Dandelion has been used for more than just cleansing, liver, and digestive support. It’s also been used in various systems of traditional herbalism to promote:^{[1] [2] [3]}

●      Appetite

●      Blood function and blood building

●      Breast health

●      Breastmilk production

●      Detoxification of various organs

●      Clearing of heat

●      Circulation and cardiovascular function

●      Energy

●      Gallbladder function

●      Normal inflammatory response

●      Normal immune function

●      Nutrient levels such as iron and other minerals

●      Metabolic function and sugar metabolism

●      Reproductive function

●      Respiratory function

●      Uterine function

●      Pain

●      PMS and other menstrual complaints

●      Skin health

●      Urinary function

Westerners tend to think of Dandelions as an American herb.  

However, Dandelions are especially revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where Dandelion was first recorded in Tang Bencao—the oldest classical medical book written in the Tang Dynasty (657–659 AD).

Today, thirty-nine Traditional Chinese herbal formulas include Dandelion as the principal active component listed in the Chinese Pharmacopeia and approved by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) of the People’s Republic of China (Table 1).

Dandelion has also been a staple in Traditional Latin American Medicine systems, such as Traditional Mexican Medicine, and various parts of Europe.

Dandelions have been administered in many forms, including infusion, decoction, tincture, plaster, powder, and even as a wine. Roasted Dandelion root is also used as a coffee substitute.

Dandelion is also popular in modern herbal skincare products and topical applications for soothing irritated skin and helping with acne and other skin complaints.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the science behind many of Dandelion’s traditional uses and how to get more Dandelion in your diet.

7 Uses and Benefits of Dandelion

As you’ve probably gleaned from the previous section, Dandelion flowers, roots, and leaves are not limited to seven uses and potential benefits. 

However, we’ve chosen to highlight these seven benefits based on the amount of research available.

1: Dandelion Contains Various Nutrients

Dandelion leaves and roots have long been used as a tonic to help restore nutrient levels and revitalize energy reserves. 

Like other dark leafy greens, Dandelion leaves contain a wealth of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, and other nutrients, including:^[4]

●      Vitamin A

●      Vitamin C

●      Vitamin K

●      Vitamin E

●      Folate and smaller amounts of other B vitamins

●      Iron

●      Calcium

●      Magnesium

●      Potassium

●      Polyphenols and other antioxidants

Prebiotics are a type of fiber that resists digestion and ferments in the gut, where they become food for beneficial microbes, thereby benefiting the gut microbiome.

Inulin is often used as an ingredient in probiotics supplements for this purpose.

Dandelion’s diverse nutritional profile makes it a staple in traditional herbal formulas for supporting energy, strength, normal iron levels, mineral levels, and women’s health.

2: Dandelion May Support Normal Inflammatory Response

As you’ve just learned, Dandelions contain various antioxidant compounds. 

Specifically, research has shown Dandelion leaves, roots, and flowers contain:

●      Beta carotene

●      Flavonoids

●      Polyphenols

●      Vitamin C 

Antioxidants work by protecting cells from unstable molecules known as free radicals. 

A certain amount of free radicals circulating in the body is normal. However, excess free radicals can negatively impact normal inflammatory response, damage cells, and create various related adverse downstream effects.

The antioxidant properties of Dandelion are believed to be responsible for its possible benefits to the inflammatory response and its traditional uses for minor pain management, immune function, metabolic function, and cardiovascular function.

We’ll explore the details in subsequent sections.

To learn more about antioxidants, see: What Are Antioxidants? How They Work And Their Benefits.

3: Dandelion May Promote Various Aspects of Digestive Function

Bitter herbs, like Dandelions, Black Radish, and Fennel, are staples in traditional herbalism for revving up digestive fire and occasional constipation or stomach upset.

Folklore teaches that they work by stimulating the production of bile in the liver, which contains essential digestive enzymes and other components that help promote motility, the breakdown of foods (especially fats), and elimination.

Modern research supports this traditional theory, showing that Dandelion may support bile production and exert a liver-protective effect (more on this to come).

However, studies have illuminated a much more comprehensive picture of how Dandelion may promote normal digestive function.

For example, a 2023 review published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed Dandelion contains several potential gastrointestinal-protective substances, including: ^[5]

●      Taraxasterol

●      Taraxerol

●      Caffeic acid

●      Chicoric acid

●      Chlorogenic acid

●      Luteolin

●      Glucosides

●      Polysaccharides

●      Inulin

●      β-sitosterol

In addition, Dandelion Root’s prebiotic fiber, inulin, supplies essential sustenance for healthy gut microbes, which may positively impact gut microbiome diversity and function.

These are exciting findings related to Dandelion’s long-standing reputation as a digestive aid. However, more research is needed to fully understand its impacts on gastrointestinal health.

4: Dandelion May Provide Multi-Dimensional Liver Support

There are few traditional herbs as revered as Dandelion for liver support.

It is foundational in various traditional herbal formulas for cleansing, and many people enjoy eating the young leaves in Spring to help purify the body and support the liver.

Various scientific studies support the age-old traditional use of Dandelion as a liver tonic.

So, how does it work?

In addition to its bitter properties, studies have shown Dandelion contains a rich array of phytochemicals that may have hepato-protective (liver-protective) properties. ^[6]

For example, studies have shown Dandelion leaf extract and Dandelion juice may reduce oxidative stress in the liver while supporting normal lipid levels and liver detoxification.^{[7] [8]}

Although more research is needed to fully understand how Dandelion may promote liver function, emerging evidence, anecdotal evidence, and traditional use suggest its centuries-old reputation as a liver tonic is likely sound.

5: Dandelion May Support Various Facets of Cardiovascular Function

New research has revealed that normal cardiovascular function is directly related to the inflammatory response.

We also now know the inflammatory response directly relates to oxidative stress levels and the microbiome.

This is why antioxidant- and fiber-rich foods and beverages are promoted as part of a heart-healthy diet.

This (along with historical use) is also why antioxidant- and fibrous Dandelion leaves and roots have been studied for their effects on cardiovascular function.

Studies have shown the antioxidants in Dandelion may help promote:^[9]

●      Normal cholesterol

●      Normal blood pressure

●      Normal metabolic function and blood sugar balance

●      Normal inflammatory response

Although more research is needed, Dandelion is considered a heart-healthy functional food.

6: Dandelion May Support Normal Metabolic Function and Sugar Metabolism

Many people associate metabolism with food, digestion, and weight. 

However, metabolism involves many organs and systems, including the hypothalamus, liver, thyroid, digestive system, gut microbiome, kidneys, and cardiovascular system, as well as how the cells utilize energy.

Various studies suggest Dandelion may support multiple aspects of metabolic function directly and indirectly via its previously discussed effects on the liver, gastrointestinal system, gut microbiome, and cardiovascular system.

Research also suggests it may have blood-sugar-supportive properties.^{[10] [11]}

Specifically, studies show that Dandelion’s bioactive compounds, chicoric acid, taraxasterol (TS), chlorogenic acid, and sesquiterpene lactones, may support normal blood sugar levels, but more robust research is needed.

In addition to its historical use for metabolic function and blood sugar, Dandelion is frequently used in Turkey and Mexico for these purposes today.

7: Dandelion May Be Good For Your Skin

Dandelion has long been used topically to address skin concerns such as rashes, wrinkles, dehydration, sun damage, and breakouts. 

Although more research is needed, a few studies suggest Dandelion’s antioxidants may help mitigate the effects of UVB damage and reduce the signs of aging.^[12]

Traditional herbalists, various clean beauty experts, and influencers also swear by Dandelion teas or tinctures taken internally to help reduce breakouts. 

Although no studies directly support these claims, Dandelion’s inflammatory-supportive antioxidants, microbial-balancing properties, and cleansing action could have a clarifying effect on the skin, but research is needed. 

Related read: How To Use Herbs For Skincare + 8 Of The Best To Try.

14 Other Uses For Dandelion + How To Get More In Your Diet

Dandelion’s health benefits are potentially vast, which may make you think twice before mowing over or weeding out all those dandelion flowers.

Here are 12 ways to use Dandelions for nourishment of body, mind, and spirit: 

1. Toss Dandelion greens into salads or smoothies. When harvested young, they are not too bitter and make an excellent addition to milder greens.
2. Make Dandelion-infused oil as a natural moisturizer. Just pop several fresh dandelion flowers into a mason jar of your favorite body oil (jojoba, almond, macadamia, etc.), place in a crock pot or Instant Pot on low, and let heat for 3-4 hours. Remove from heat strain, and it’s ready to use.
3. Plant Dandelions to amend your garden soil. This may sound counterintuitive, but Dandelions are an excellent cover crop that can revitalize tired soil after a growing season. Just make sure to mow them down (or harvest them for future use) before the flowers go to seed.
4. Make a Dandelion bouquet. Dandelions may be common, but their bright color makes a simply beautiful bouquet. You can also combine them with other complementary herbs and flowers like lavender and mint for a rustic, natural, and playful centerpiece.
5. Use Dandelion flowers in DIY soaps and skincare products. They are also beautiful in balms, bath salts, and salves. Use whole dried flowers or petals or Dandelion-infused oil as a base.
6. Add Dandelion greens to your pesto for a spicy bite.
7. Make Dandelion flower tea. This easy DIY liver-supportive tea is made by placing 3-6 fresh Dandelion flowers in boiling water, steeping for 5-10 minutes, then sweetening with honey if desired. Dandelion flowers are not bitter and have a naturally sweet floral flavor.
8. Paint with Dandelion flowers. Children and artists of all ages will enjoy using big Dandelion flowers as paintbrushes or natural stamps/prints. Just dip them in the paint and have fun!
9. Sautee Dandelion greens with garlic, soy sauce, and dried fruit. Cooking mellows their flavor, and adding dried fruit adds a nice contrast.
10. Let some Dandelions go to seed for the birds. If you love bird watching, let a few Dandelions go to seed to attract Gold Finches.
11. Try your hand at Dandelion jelly. This isn’t as hard as it sounds and makes a beautiful light yellow jelly with a honey-like flavor to enjoy on toast, give as a gift, or eat straight from the jar! You start by making a strong Dandelion tea and letting that infuse for 24 hours. Then, bring it to a boil, add lemon, sugar, and pectin, pour into canning jars, and either process or let it gel and store in the fridge. Check out this recipe from Almanac for a complete tutorial.
12. Brew some Dandelion wine. If you like home brewing and fermenting, dozens of recipes are available for Dandelion wine, made from Dandelion Flowers combined with citrus, sugar, and yeast. This recipe from The Spruce Eats walks you through the DIY wine-making process.
13. Leave your Dandelions for the birds and bees. There are many benefits to letting your yard go a bit wild, including providing sustenance for the birds and bees. Bees love gathering pollen from Dandelion flowers, and birds like goldfinches enjoy feasting on their seeds.
14. Make Dandelion-infused vinegar. Clean dandelion flowers can be added to your favorite vinegar, such as white wine or apple cider, and left to infuse for two weeks. Their flavor adds a natural sweetness and flora notes to the vinegar.