Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is one of the most widely used plants in traditional European herbal medicine, growing wild across meadows, gardens and roadsides. Every part has traditionally been used — leaves in salads or tea, flowers for syrups, and especially the root, richest in active compounds: inuline (a prebiotic fibre), bitter sesquiterpene lactones, plant sterols, flavonoids, phenolic acids and notable potassium levels.

Dandelion root is traditionally used to support digestion: its bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions, including bile production by the liver and its release from the gallbladder — a traditional cholagogue and choleretic action valued by those feeling digestive heaviness after meals. It’s also traditionally regarded as a drainage plant supporting the body’s elimination of metabolic waste, commonly used in seasonal detox courses, particularly in spring and autumn. Unlike some diuretics that deplete potassium, dandelion naturally contains it, making it a gentler, more balanced drainage option.

The recommended dose is 2 capsules, 2–3 times a day, ideally before meals, so the bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions ahead of eating. Drink plenty of water throughout the course to support the plant’s drainage effect. A 4–6 week course is generally recommended, particularly in spring and autumn, or after periods of festive over-indulgence.

Made by Now Foods, a US brand founded in 1968, in GMP-certified facilities with rigorous quality controls; vegan and non-GMO certified.

People with gallstones, bile duct obstruction, or any hepatobiliary condition must consult a healthcare professional before taking dandelion root, as stimulating bile flow can dislodge gallstones and cause complications. People allergic to Asteraceae plants (daisy, chamomile, arnica) should exercise caution. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice. This food supplement is not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.

Can dandelion root replace medical treatment?

No — it’s a food supplement, not a medicine, and does not replace treatment prescribed by a healthcare professional. If you have persistent digestive symptoms or liver issues, see your doctor.

Can it be taken continuously?

It’s traditionally used in 4–6 week courses followed by a break, rather than continuously, respecting the body’s natural rhythms — though there’s no formal contraindication to longer use at recommended doses.

Is it suitable for people with gallstones?

Dandelion root stimulates bile secretion and excretion, which is usually beneficial for digestion, but in people with gallstones this stimulation can dislodge stones and cause complications — medical advice is essential before use in this case.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.