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What should I discusss with my health care provider before using dandelion ()?

Do not take dandelion without first talking to your doctor if you

• have gallbladder problems,
• have diabetes or if you take medicine to control blood sugar levels,
• take a diuretic (water pill), or
• take an anticoagulant (blood thinner) such as warfarin (Coumadin).

You may not be able to take dandelion, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Also, before taking dandelion, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you have allergies (especially to plants) or if you have any other medical conditions or take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements. Dandelion may not be recommended in some situations.

There is no information available regarding the use of dandelion by children. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without first talking to the child's doctor.

How should I take dandelion ()?

The use of dandelion in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.

If you choose to take dandelion, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Standardized extracts, tinctures, and solid formulations of herbal/health supplements may provide a more reliable dose of the product.

Take the pill forms of dandelion with a full glass of water.

To ensure the correct dose, measure the liquid forms of dandelion with a dropper or a dose-measuring spoon or cup.

Some forms of dandelion can be brewed to form a tea for drinking.

Do not use different formulations (e.g., tablets, liquids, teas, and others) of dandelion at the same time, unless specifically directed to do so by a health care professional. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of dandelion.

Store dandelion as directed on the package. In general, dandelion should be protected from light and moisture.

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