Dandelion

What is dandelion?

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a familiar flowering plant found across much of the world — and both its root and leaf are used in herbal traditions. It's classed as a bitter herb, traditionally taken to support digestion, and the leaves have long been eaten as greens. Roasted dandelion root is also brewed as a coffee-like beverage. As a supplement it's available in several forms.

Dandelion forms

• Root capsules — dried dandelion root in capsules (e.g. NOW, Nature's Way, Solaray).
• Tinctures & liquid — dandelion extracts in liquid, taken in water (e.g. St. Francis, Orange Naturals).
• Juice — pressed dandelion juice (e.g. Salus).
• Tea — dandelion leaf or roasted-root tea bags.
• Herbal blends — dandelion combined with herbs like milk thistle or artichoke.

Things to know

A few notes. Dandelion is in the daisy (Asteraceae) family, so people allergic to ragweed, marigold, or related plants may react to it. Because it can act as a mild diuretic and may interact with some medications (including diuretics and lithium), it's worth checking with your healthcare practitioner if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have gallbladder or kidney concerns. Follow the label's dose.

Dandelion in Canada

The dandelion here is licensed for sale in Canada and ships from our Ontario warehouse. Stock can vary by product, so the live collection above shows what's currently available.