Dandelion … Safety & Interactions
Pu Gong Ying · Herba Taraxaci
Dandelion supplements may add to the effects of diuretics or glucose-lowering medicine and may alter the metabolism of some prescription drugs. Much of the metabolism evidence is preclinical, but a transplant case report makes concentrated tea and extract use worth reviewing with a clinician.
Use with caution. Healthcare professional review recommended before use.
Contraindications
- Known allergy to dandelion or other Asteraceae plants
- Use of high-dose extracts without attention to blood sugar or diuretic effects
Cautions
- Memorial Sloan Kettering notes that dandelion can cause heartburn, stomach upset, rash, mild diarrhea, and low blood sugar in susceptible users.
- MSK also notes preclinical estrogenic activity and advises caution with concentrated supplement use when hormone sensitivity is a concern.
- Large amounts of tea or extract are more likely to cause side effects or medication interactions than ordinary food use.
Drug Interactions
| Drug Class / Substrate | Mechanism | Severity | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diuretics | Dandelion may add to diuretic effects and increase urination. | Moderate | Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs |
| Insulin and other glucose-lowering medicines | Preclinical evidence suggests an additive glucose-lowering effect. | Uncertain | Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs |
| CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 substrate medicines | Laboratory and animal findings suggest dandelion may change drug metabolism. A case report described toxic immunosuppressant levels after a tea containing dandelion. | Moderate | Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs |
| UGT substrate medicines | Animal research suggests dandelion may alter glucuronidation and drug levels. Clinical relevance is not known. | Uncertain | Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs |
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal medicines, especially if you take prescription medications.