Therapeutic Potential of Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Root Extract in Colon Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Colorectal Cancer (CRC) remains a pressing global health burden, with limitations in current treatments such as chemoresistance, toxicity, and tumour recurrence. Increasing interest in Phyto therapeutics has led to exploration of Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) Root Extract (DRE) for its anticancer potential. This review synthesizes current preclinical evidence on DRE’s selective cytotoxicity against CRC cells, highlighting its ability to induce apoptosis, inhibit pro-inflammatory pathways like TLR4/NF-κB, and modulate gut microbiota. Key constituents such as taraxasterol, chlorogenic acid, inulin, and various flavonoids exhibit synergistic effects that promote mitochondrial-mediated cell death, reduce oxidative stress, and preserve normal colonocyte function. DRE also demonstrates favourable safety and pharmacokinetic profiles, supporting its potential as a chemo preventive or adjunctive therapy. Despite promising data from in vitro and in vivo models, clinical studies remain absent. Continued research is essential to validate efficacy, optimize formulations, and translate findings into human applications.