Dandelion, or Taraxacum officinale, is generally deemed safe for consumption, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, but any form of dandelion use or supplement may cause adverse effects for some individuals. Always consult your physician for guidance prior to using dandelion or any other herbal remedy, whether it's prepared at home or purchased from commercial suppliers.
Allergies
MedlinePlus, a service from the National Institutes of Health, warns that people who are allergic to chrysanthemum, ragweed, honey, chamomile and other plants from the Asteraceae family should avoid dandelion. Those with dandelion allergies may experience eczema or contact dermatitis from handling the plant The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that some people may develop sores in the mouth from contact, and that dandelion may also negatively affect those who are allergic to iodine.
Drug Interactions
Dandelion ingestion can reduce the efficacy of prescription drugs, and people may experience negative effects from combining dandelion with other herbs or prescription medications.
The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that dandelion may worsen the side effects of lithium and that you should not ingest any dandelion species with antibiotics.
MedlinePlus notes that dandelion may be unsafe when combined with garlic, saw palmetto, gingko biloba, blood thinners or pain relievers, as it may increase the risk of bleeding. Dandelion's diuretic properties may alter the side effects of other herbs and medications as well.
Dandelion Side Effects
Dandelion ingestion may cause heartburn and increase stomach acid, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, but people should not take antacids when using dandelion. Some people may also experience diarrhea or other gastrointestinal complaints from its use. MedlinePlus warns that those with diabetes or low blood sugar should use caution with dandelion, as it may lower blood sugar or interact with blood sugar medications.
Warning
Toxicity of foxglove and hawthorn may increase when combined with dandelion, according to MedlinePlus, and parasitic infection is possible with ingestion of contaminated dandelion. Consult your physician on dandelion use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and note that other unidentified dangers may exist because herbal supplements do not always undergo extensive or long-term testing.
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