Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceWeight management

Herbal Diuretic Formulas

Blends of dandelion, uva ursi, juniper and similar herbs sold to shed water weight. The one controlled test of dandelion found no diuretic effect at all, and any water lost returns within a day.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Dandelion as a diuretic Limited evidence

    A controlled crossover study in physically active young adults found that co-ingesting a commercial dandelion root powder produced no additional urine output over four hours compared with water alone. This is the most direct human test of the central ingredient and it was negative.

  • Uva ursi Limited evidence

    A randomized controlled trial in primary care tested uva ursi extract against fosfomycin for uncomplicated urinary tract infection and found it inferior to the antibiotic. That trial studied infection, not fluid loss or weight, and no controlled trial supports uva ursi for shedding water weight.

  • Effect on body fat Limited evidence

    Water lost through increased urine output is regained as soon as normal drinking resumes and represents no change in body fat. No trial has shown that herbal diuretics affect fat mass.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo validated dose. Labels typically supply 300–500 mg each of dandelion leaf, uva ursi and juniper per serving, stated without supporting trial data.
SafetyUva ursi contains hydroquinone precursors and should not be taken for more than about a week at a time or more than a few times a year; it is not for children, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Diuretic herbs can deplete potassium and add to the effect of prescription diuretics and lithium. Dandelion is in the daisy family and can trigger allergy. Anyone with kidney or heart disease should avoid these products.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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