Tag: Herbal risks

For centuries, hoja santa has been a staple in traditional Mexican cuisine, yet its safety is often questioned due to the presence of safrole. This guide addresses the valid concerns surrounding whether hoja santa is safe to eat and provides clear, evidence-based recommendations for its use.

According to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, adverse effects from dietary supplements are responsible for an estimated 23,000 emergency department visits each year. This highlights the critical importance of understanding what supplements are not safe to take and why, to protect your health and avoid serious harm.

Studies have reported cases of acute liver and kidney damage, particularly in children, from concentrated clove oil ingestion. This raises a critical question: what are the dangers of too much clove, and when does this common spice become a health risk?

While yellow root has a long history in traditional medicine, the plant's root, when taken in high doses, is considered potentially toxic. Therefore, it is crucial to understand why you cannot eat yellow root raw and the significant health risks associated with doing so before considering any form of consumption.

According to reports from France's National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety, between 2020 and 2022, 28 cases of poisoning occurred from confusing wild garlic with toxic lookalikes, with two cases resulting in death. While edible, wild garlic presents various side effects and risks, primarily from misidentification or excessive consumption, making cautious handling and preparation essential.

A case report published in the Journal of College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan details a patient who developed a colonic obstruction after ingesting Vitex seeds. While some herbal lore and online shops mention the possibility of chewing the seeds, modern medical evidence and expert consensus point to serious risks associated with this practice. Before considering chewing Vitex seeds, it is critical to understand the potential health dangers and why standardized extracts are the recommended option.

While bathua is celebrated for its nutritional profile, containing essential vitamins and minerals, its consumption is not without potential risks, especially when taken in excess or by certain individuals. This article investigates the question: does bathua have any side effects and explores the specific precautions necessary for safe enjoyment of this leafy green.

Bilberry, a plant celebrated for its antioxidant properties, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for vision and circulation. While the fruit is generally considered safe in normal food amounts, certain drawbacks exist, especially concerning bilberry supplements. Understanding the potential disadvantages of bilberry is crucial before incorporating it into your routine, particularly for those on medication or with specific health conditions.

The licorice plant, *Glycyrrhiza glabra*, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East for its potential health benefits, but its safety profile is not straightforward. Understanding the active compounds, proper dosage, and potential side effects is critical before chewing liquorice root regularly.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), licorice root is generally considered safe as a food ingredient, but it contains a compound called glycyrrhizin that can cause serious side effects, especially in large amounts or over a long period. Understanding the difference between licorice root and its deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) counterpart is crucial for safe consumption.