Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) is widely used in pharmaceutical and herbal medicine for its potent hepatoprotective, diuretic, and digestive properties. It acts as a bitter tonic to improve digestion, stimulates bile flow for liver/gallbladder health, and contains antioxidants (polyphenols) that aid in inflammation reduction, potential cancer research, and blood sugar management. 

Key Pharmaceutical Uses & Benefits:

Liver & Gallbladder Health: Used to treat hepatitis, jaundice, and congestion of the liver and gallbladder, stimulating bile production to aid fat digestion.

Digestive Aid: Acts as a stomachic and prebiotic, treating anorexia, indigestion, constipation, and gastritis by increasing gastrointestinal motility.

Diuretic & Detoxification: Increases urine production to flush toxins, potentially aiding in treating UTIs and reducing water retention.

Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant: Contains high levels of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids that combat chronic inflammation and oxidative stress.

Metabolic Support: Preliminary studies suggest it may help normalize blood sugar and lower cholesterol/triglyceride levels. 

Key Compounds:

Inulin: A prebiotic fiber that supports gut health.

Taraxasterol & Sesquiterpene lactones: Compounds with anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects.