Posted by Vincent Banial

Since this blog is about the Medical benefits of Weed, let us look at potential medical benefits of common Dandelion weed.

The video below features a talk by Dr. Siyaram Pandey who is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Windsor. Dr. Pandey’s research is focused on apoptosis (cell suicide).

The Dandelion Root Project is aimed at showcasing scientific evidence for the safe and effective use of dandelion root extract and other natural health products for cancer therapy.

The Dandelion Root Project started in 2009 in a bid to investigate the anticancer effect of the root extract of dandelions against cancer cells in the lab (in cells and in animal models).

Dandelion Root Project Researchers 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 they have 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.

The Dandelion Root Project researchers applied for Phase I clinical trials in 2012 for the use of DRE in hematological cancers and in November 2012,. Approval was obtained for the administration of DRE in human patients and currently, the dandelion root extract is under Phase 1 clinical trials for drug refractory blood cancers.

Dr. Siyaram Pandey is also currently the Founder Director and Chief Scientific Officer of the Windsor Botanical Therapeutics Inc. Toronto. His group is known for their discovery of the novel natural anti-cancer compound Pancratistatin, and Dandelion Root extract which is in clinical trial for blood cancer (Leukemia).

Leukemia kills and so does Chemotherapy. Both have had a major impact on my life.

It turns out that Dandelions have compounds which could promote the apoptosis (cell suicide) of Cancer Cells. Apparently one can purchase Dandelion Tea in Health Food store. Or one can pick some Dandelions and make their own Tea.

What Dr. Pandey and his fellow researchers did was isolate a compound found in  Dandelion Tea. A Freeze Drying process is used to vastly increase the concentration levels versus what may be found in regular store bought Dandelion Tea. This compound is called Pancratistatin and is undergoing Clinical Trails.

So it looks like weeds are a good thing when fighting cancer. Both Medical Cannabis and Dandelions could have medical benefits for those fighting cancer.

Video is courtesy of the TEDx Talks YouTUbe channel

Disclaimer: This information should not be construed as medical, health or nutritional advice, nor have these statements been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration. This content is not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any disease or illness and is provided solely as a courtesy to the reader.