Scientists use dandelion root extract to inhibit tumour growth

A group of scientists in America have successfully used dandelion root extract to inhibit the growth of tumours in mice.

The group have now received additional funding in order to advance their studies further to prove that the same results could be applicable to humans. Funding is an important step to further research for the biochemistry team, but approval from Health Canada for Phase I clinical trials would be an even greater advance.

Dr Caroline Hamm received initial funding from the study after she noticed that conditions improved in a number of cancer sufferers after they started to drink dandelion root tea as an alternative when traditional chemotherapy didn’t work.

University of Windsor biochemist Siyaram Pandey and students that included Miss Hamm conducted experiments on weeds they dug from local lawns. He said the dandelion root extract results pose a “brilliant possibility.

“I say possibility because a lot still has to be done, but the potential is there.”

The researchers proved in a lab that the extract causes cancer cells to 'commit suicide', with no implications on healthy cells. This could offer a less harmful treatment than when toxic chemotherapy drugs are used.

Posted by Neil Clark