Is dandelion good for digestion?
The bitter constituents in dandelion root helps the production and release of bile into the small intestine, stimulating peristalsis (a wave-like motion that moves food along) in the large intestine to reduce bowel sluggishness and constipation. Dandelion root is also rich in inulin, a non-digestible dietary fibre that stimulates growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
What are the benefits of taking dandelion?
Let's take a closer look at why dandelion is good for digestion:
Stimulation of bile from the bitter constituents in dandelion root, alongside the inulin content that promotes good gut bacteria, are two ways that dandelion benefits your digestion.(1) Better digestion means you absorb nutrients from food more effectively too. These are not the only benefits dandelion has.
When the liver is producing bile and moving it into the small intestine effectively, fat metabolism is maximized. This not only improves digestion but also helps with weight control as well as the metabolism of Essential Fatty Acids for brain function.
And that's not all! Dandelion leaf and stem both contain bitter sesquiterpene lactones that provide bile-stimulating bitterness, just like the root. The leaves are also extremely rich in potassium.(2) This potassium content encourages the release of fluid from waterlogged cells in your body, giving dandelion a mild diuretic effect. This is really helpful when sluggish digestion is accompanied by water retention and bloating.
How to take dandelion for digestion?
Dandelion comes in a variety of forms, including tablets, drops, and tea. Dandelion root is often used as a coffee substitute, so you may see it packaged as dandelion coffee in your health food shop.
Taking dandelion in drop format is the quickest way to see results for digestion. An alcohol extract in drop format quickly absorbs through the capillaries in the mouth, so gets to work much quicker than a tablet.
It is best to take dandelion 10 minutes before meals to improve digestion. This gives the tongue's bitter taste receptors time to initiate the cascade of events that move food through the gastrointestinal system.
Are there any safety issues to be aware of when taking dandelion?
If you have gallstones or an obstructed bile duct you should not use bile-promoting remedies such as dandelion. This is to ensure gallstones do not move, damage or block the bile duct.
Speak to your doctor before using dandelion if you are on diuretic medication. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines.
