Its plant roots can also be used as a gentle laxative, which works by improving digestion, as well as the functioning of the gallbladder. There have also been some animal studies that show that the phytosterols found in dandelion can also improve the body’s lipid (fat) profile by reducing the levels of bad cholesterol while increasing good cholesterol. And of course, thanks to the lecithin found in both the dandelion flower and root, this plant is well-known as a gentle liver detoxifier – and the liver plays a crucial part in weight loss.