Evidence supporting the use of: Dandelion
For the health condition: Jaundice (infants)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and various European folk practices, for supporting liver health and promoting bile flow. In these traditions, dandelion root or leaves have been used as a "liver tonic," and sometimes recommended for individuals with jaundice, a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels, often related to liver dysfunction. Historical texts and ethnobotanical records reference dandelion’s use in managing “liver obstruction” or “heat in the liver,” which are sometimes interpreted as jaundice-like symptoms.

However, scientific evidence supporting dandelion’s efficacy and safety in treating jaundice—especially in infants—is extremely limited. Most research on dandelion focuses on its effects in adults, and studies are typically preclinical (in vitro or animal models). These studies suggest dandelion may have mild hepatoprotective and choleretic effects, but these findings have not been validated in rigorous human clinical trials, and certainly not in infants. No major pediatric or medical guidelines endorse dandelion for neonatal jaundice, and there are safety concerns about giving herbal remedies to infants. As such, while dandelion’s use for jaundice is supported by tradition, there is minimal scientific evidence, and its use in infants is not recommended by modern healthcare professionals.

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