For centuries, the humble dandelion has been used in traditional medicine to support digestion, cleanse the liver, and promote overall wellness. Recently, a viral claim suggests that dandelion root can destroy cancer cells in just 48 hours. While this idea is intriguing, it’s important to explore what science actually says about it. Can this common weed truly fight cancer?
What Is Dandelion Root?
Dandelion root comes from the Taraxacum officinale plant. It’s often dried and used in teas, capsules, or tinctures. Traditionally, it’s been used as a diuretic, digestive aid, and liver tonic in various cultures.
Scientific Research on Dandelion Root and Cancer
Some early laboratory studies have shown that dandelion root extract may:
- Induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain cancer cells like leukemia and prostate cancer.
- Leave healthy cells unharmed in controlled conditions.
- Inhibit growth of cancer cells in test tubes and animal models.
However, these studies are preclinical—meaning they were not conducted on humans. While promising, they do not prove that dandelion root is an effective cancer treatment for people.
