Dandelion Root: The Unexpected Key to Liver Damage Reversal?

Dandelion is more than just a weed growing near our homes. For hundreds of years, it has been used in traditional medicine for treating different kinds of diseases. Now that modern science is finally catching up, growing scientific research clearly shows that dandelion root can provide actual protection against liver fibrosis, a condition that can result in chronic liver damage if left untreated!Chronic inflammation in the liver produces collagen and extracellular matrix proteins. As the collagen and the extracellular matrix proteins accumulate, scarring occurs. The scarring is called fibrosis. Fibrosis develops over time, and eventually can progress into advanced stages. The most advanced stage of fibrosis is cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma; finding natural substances that are capable of preventing or retarding its development is extremely important.Fibrosis progression is variable. Not all patients develop fibrosis and those who do may not progress to advanced stages. For those with progressive fibrosis, the rate of progression can be variable. Some patients progress slowly for 20 years and then accelerate in later years. Other patients develop fibrosis within a short period and progress quickly, sometimes developing cirrhosis within less than 20 years. Factors that can contribute to some patients progressing more rapidly or to more advanced stages are age, heavy intake of alcohol, and High or low HCV RNA level.The study published in the Journal of Basic and applied Zoology investigated the impact of dandelion root extract on rats that had liver fibrosis. The results were amazing and they showed that dandelion prevents the progression of hepatic fibrosis.The dandelion’s antifibrotic effects could be attributed to its ability to scavenge free radicals and to attenuate inflammatory cell activation. The dandelion extract was seen to lower oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis markers in the liver. The research found that dandelion root contributed to protecting liver cells and aiding in tissue repair.Another piece of evidence that supports Dandelion root is the one published in the National Institutes of Health, which looked at dandelion’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in great detail. It was discovered that dandelion root can reduce levels of liver enzymes that would normally increase when the liver is stressed. The scientists also noted that dandelion normalized immune responses and decreased collagen accumulation, which is an important component of fibrosis formation.Collectively, these studies portray how effective a weed can be in curing diseases that once had no cure for and its solution was right in front of us all the time.Dandelion’s root are a network of intricate bioactive compounds. It contains essential vitamins such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, vitamins and other minerals that when combined together, curbs inflammation, counteract damaging free radicals and stimulate the production of bile in the bodyBy decreasing oxidative injury and enhancing detoxification, dandelion root can provide a healthier internal environment for liver cells to repair and regenerate. It can also lower the activity of cells called hepatic stellate cells. These cells are involved in fibrosis because they produce excess collagen. When dandelion root decreases their activity, it slows the formation of scar tissue in the liver.Although initial results are promising, most studies have been conducted in animals or lab tests. Human trials remain scant. Apart from this, the Dandelion root has been used in herbal remedies with little to no side effects, hence it is generally considered safe to use in moderate doses.Dandelion root comes in all manner of forms, such as teas, capsules, and tinctures. If one is thinking of using it for liver health, ensure using it only after consulting a medical health professional, specifically, if you are on medications.Disclaimer: This article is only meant for informational purposes. Always consult a trained medical health professional before adopting any new routine.