Evidence supporting the use of: Dandelion
For the health condition: Hepatitis

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): 1

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in Europe and Asia, as a remedy for liver ailments, including hepatitis. In traditional Chinese medicine and European herbalism, dandelion root and leaf have been used as a "liver tonic," believed to stimulate bile production, support liver function, and aid in detoxification. Historical texts often mention its use for "liver congestion" or jaundice, conditions that overlap with symptoms of hepatitis. However, the scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited and primarily based on animal studies or in vitro experiments.

Some laboratory studies suggest dandelion extract may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could theoretically benefit liver health. A few animal studies have reported hepatoprotective effects, such as reduced liver enzyme levels and improved liver histology following dandelion administration in chemically induced liver injury models. However, there are no robust clinical trials in humans that specifically evaluate dandelion’s efficacy for hepatitis. The available human data are sparse and do not provide strong support for its use in treating or supporting hepatitis.

In summary, while dandelion is traditionally used for liver-related conditions, including hepatitis, current scientific validation is minimal. Its use for hepatitis is justified mainly by tradition, not by high-quality clinical evidence.

More about dandelion
More about Hepatitis