Evidence supporting the use of: Taraxacin
For the health condition: Glands (swollen lymph)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Taraxacin is a bitter compound found in dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). The use of dandelion preparations, especially the root and leaves, has a long tradition in herbal medicine as a "blood purifier" and for supporting the lymphatic system. Historically, various herbalists and traditional systems have recommended dandelion to "stimulate" or "cleanse" the lymph glands, particularly in cases of swollen lymph nodes, though these recommendations are largely based on empirical or folkloric use rather than rigorous scientific study.
Modern scientific research on taraxacin itself is limited, and there is little to no direct clinical evidence supporting its efficacy for treating swollen lymph glands or directly affecting lymphatic function. Most evidence consists of anecdotal reports or general references to dandelion’s diuretic and mild anti-inflammatory properties, which some practitioners believe may indirectly benefit the lymphatic system. However, these effects have not been conclusively demonstrated in well-designed studies specific to glandular swelling or lymphatic disorders.
In conclusion, the use of taraxacin (and dandelion) for swollen lymph glands is rooted primarily in traditional herbal practice, with minimal supporting scientific evidence. The tradition persists, but anyone considering its use should be aware of the lack of robust clinical validation for this specific indication.
Other ingredients used for Glands (swollen lymph)
betelIndian frankincense
bovine
burdock
Coptis chinensis
turmeric
dog rose
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
fu ling
goldenseal
onion
horseradish
honeysuckle
Japanese sophora
licorice root
spruce
oregon grape
phellodendron amurense
platycodon root
reishi mushroom
schizonepeta
scrophularia root
serratiopeptidase
slippery elm bark
chickweed
Indian bael
ferula assafoetida
punarnava
commiphora
caesalpinia crista
rubia cordifolia
swertia
peony
goldenrod
myrrh
fern
sweet flag
oriental arborvitae
trichosanthes
zanthoxylum
sheep's sorrel
eucalyptus
cleavers
paw paw
white oak
geranium
Aralia
Avens
Ardisia
Angelica
Agrimony
Allicin
Achyranthes
Anamu
Abrus
Ajuga
Aerva lanata
American Liverleaf
Agrimonia pilosa
Abuta
Amor seco
Arisaema
Bee Propolis
Betony
Baikal Skullcap
Blue Flag
Baliospermum
Blackthorn
Broussonetia
Butea monosperma
Barleria
Bitter Grass
Banyan
Black Nightshade
Bombax
Black root
Bupleurum
Borneol
Chinese Silkvine
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Cynomorium
Cinquefoil
Cyathula
Cajuput
Centipeda
cypress
Cynodon dactylon
Costus
Collinsonia
Castor Oil
Celosia
Dianthus
Didymocarpus
Devil's Club
Dichrostachys glomerata
Dipsacus
European Elder
Erodium cicutarium
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Fuchsia
Fang-Feng
Ficus simplicissima
Goldthread
Gnaphalium
Garlic
Galium
Giant Blazingstar
Glechoma hederacea
Galangal
Guazuma ulmifolia
Heartsease
Little ironweed
Mustard
Mallow
Vervain