Evidence supporting the use of: Dandelion
For the body system: Gall Bladder

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems to support liver and gall bladder health. In traditional European herbalism, dandelion root and leaves have been used as a digestive tonic, believed to stimulate bile production and flow, which is important for the function of the gall bladder. Dandelion is often described as a "cholagogue," meaning it is thought to promote the discharge of bile from the system, aiding in fat digestion and potentially supporting gall bladder health and function.

Scientific research on dandelion's effects on the gall bladder specifically is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that dandelion extract may increase bile secretion, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. The Commission E (Germany’s herbal regulatory body) recognizes dandelion for its ability to stimulate appetite and aid minor digestive disturbances, but not specifically for gall bladder disorders.

Thus, while there is substantial traditional use of dandelion for supporting the gall bladder and biliary system, scientific validation remains limited. Its use is justified primarily on the basis of historical and ethnobotanical evidence rather than strong clinical data.

More about dandelion
More about Gall Bladder