While many view dandelions as pesky weeds, these plants hold remarkable potential in aiding cancer patients.
Chemo-resistant melanoma, the most prevalent cancer among Americans aged 25 to 29, often leaves patients with limited treatment options. Surgery followed by immunotherapy is the current standard, but this approach is generally ineffective once the melanoma has spread.
However, a promising discovery involving dandelion root is set to change this. Research from the University of Windsor’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry has demonstrated that dandelion root extract can induce self-destruction in human melanoma cells without harming healthy cells. In an initial study led by Professor Siyaram Pandey, PhD, melanoma cells disintegrated within 48 hours of exposure to the extract.
This breakthrough has led to the development of a concentrated dandelion root tea, spearheaded by the non-profit organization Mitacs in collaboration with AOR Inc., a Calgary-based natural health product company. They have created a potent dandelion tea powder by milling and freeze-drying the root, which patients dissolve in hot water to drink. AOR is providing 6,000 doses for a clinical trial at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre, involving 30 patients with various types of cancer, including leukemia, who have not responded to conventional treatments.
The Dandelion Root Project at the University of Windsor states:
“Since the commencement of this project, we have been able to successfully assess the effect of a simple water extract of dandelion root in various human cancer cell types in the lab and observed its effectiveness against human T cell leukemia, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, pancreatic and colon cancers, with no toxicity to non-cancer cells. Furthermore, these efficacy studies have been confirmed in animal models (mice) that have been transplanted with human colon cancer cells.”
Dr. Caroline Hamm, a researcher and medical oncologist, noted that some patients have reported improvements after consuming dandelion root tea from health food stores. The more concentrated version could potentially be even more effective, offering hope to many.
Dandelion’s cancer-fighting potential extends beyond melanoma. A 2008 study in the International Journal of Oncology found that dandelion tea reduced breast and prostate cancer cells. Further studies indicated that dandelion supplements suppressed prostate cancer cell growth. Traditional Chinese and Native American medicines have long utilized dandelion extracts to treat breast cancer and leukemia, and ongoing research shows promise in combating colon and pancreatic cancers.
In addition to its anti-cancer properties, dandelion root provides numerous health benefits. It stimulates bile secretion, alleviates allergies, reduces cholesterol, and cleanses the liver. The root is also rich in vitamins A and K.
Dandelion root is just one example of the potential natural remedies growing around us. Many more treatments lie hidden in forests, oceans, and deserts, waiting to be discovered and utilized.
