What are the side effects of arrowroot starch?

December 16, 2025 •

3 min read

According to research from WebMD, arrowroot starch is considered 'likely safe' when used in food amounts, but its safety and potential side effects in larger, medicinal quantities are less understood. Knowing what are the side effects of arrowroot starch is important for anyone using this ingredient, particularly if they have underlying health conditions or use it beyond typical culinary applications.

Quick Summary

Arrowroot starch is generally well-tolerated, but high consumption may cause digestive discomfort like constipation or bloating. Rare allergic reactions, from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis, are possible. It is also important to consider potential interactions with certain medications.

Key Points

Generally Safe: Arrowroot starch is typically safe for most individuals, especially when used in culinary amounts.
Digestive Issues: Overconsumption can lead to digestive discomfort, including constipation, bloating, and gas, due to its high starch and fiber content.
Rare Allergies: Allergic reactions to arrowroot are uncommon but possible, with symptoms ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis in rare cases.
Drug Interactions: Use caution if taking medication for diarrhea, as arrowroot's binding properties could potentially cause constipation.
Cooking Considerations: Unlike cornstarch, arrowroot loses its thickening power when exposed to high, prolonged heat, requiring it to be added near the end of the cooking process.
Vulnerable Groups: Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, or using it for infants should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional.
Hypoallergenic Alternative: For individuals with gluten or corn sensitivities, arrowroot provides a safe and effective thickening option.

Arrowroot starch, derived from the rhizomes of tropical plants, has been a popular culinary and medicinal ingredient for centuries. It is celebrated for being gluten-free, highly digestible, and a versatile thickening agent. However, like any food product or supplement, it is not without potential risks and side effects, especially when consumed in excessive amounts. While most people can use it safely, being aware of the possible adverse effects is crucial for everyone.

Potential Side Effects of Overconsumption

While arrowroot is generally gentle on the digestive system, consuming large quantities can lead to some gastrointestinal issues. This is particularly relevant when it is used as a therapeutic agent rather than a culinary one. The side effects can include:

Constipation: Paradoxically, while arrowroot is sometimes used as a folk remedy for diarrhea, its high thickening and binding properties can cause constipation when taken in large doses or if fluid intake is insufficient.
Stomach Discomfort: Excessive consumption may lead to bloating, gas, and general stomach uneasiness in some individuals.
Diarrhea: In some cases, very high doses may disrupt the digestive tract in a way that leads to diarrhea rather than resolving it.

Comparison Table: Arrowroot vs. Cornstarch

To better understand the properties and potential side effects, a comparison with cornstarch, a common alternative, can be helpful.


Feature	Arrowroot Starch	Cornstarch
Sourcing	Extracted from tropical plant rhizomes.	Derived from the endosperm of corn kernels.
Effect on Acidity	Holds up well in acidic mixtures like fruit fillings.	Can break down in acidic ingredients, losing its thickening power.
Cooking Temperature	Should be added near the end of cooking, as it loses potency with high heat.	Can be cooked for longer periods and at higher temperatures.
Final Texture	Creates a glossy, clear gel-like texture.	Creates a cloudy, opaque finish.
Digestibility	Highly digestible due to a different starch composition.	Some individuals report that it is harder to digest.
Allergen Potential	Very low, considered a hypoallergenic option.	Potential for cross-contamination with gluten if not certified gluten-free.

Allergic Reactions to Arrowroot

While arrowroot is not known for being a common allergen, allergic reactions can occur, though they are rare. These reactions happen when the immune system mistakenly identifies arrowroot proteins as a threat. The symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Mild Allergic Symptoms: These may include itching or swelling of the mouth, lips, and tongue, as well as hives. Stomach discomfort, nausea, and vomiting can also occur.
Severe Allergic Symptoms: In very rare cases, a severe reaction called anaphylaxis can occur. This is a medical emergency characterized by difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

Potential Drug Interactions

Arrowroot has traditionally been used to aid digestion and treat diarrhea. However, because of its binding and absorbent properties, it can potentially interfere with the effectiveness of certain medications.

Medications for Diarrhea: Arrowroot should not be taken concurrently with other medications designed to treat diarrhea, as this can lead to severe constipation.
General Drug Absorption: The bulk-forming nature of arrowroot may theoretically affect the absorption of orally administered medications, though more research is needed on this topic. Always consult a doctor if you are taking medications and wish to use arrowroot for medicinal purposes.

Considerations for Vulnerable Populations

Certain groups of people should exercise extra caution or consult a healthcare professional before consuming arrowroot in large amounts.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: While arrowroot is considered possibly safe in food amounts, there is not enough reliable information on larger doses for medicinal use. It is best to stick to culinary amounts.
Infants: Arrowroot is sometimes used in baby food, but pediatric consultation is vital, especially when introducing new foods to an infant's diet.
Diabetics: Since arrowroot is a carbohydrate-rich starch, individuals with diabetes should monitor their intake and blood sugar levels, although arrowroot has a relatively low glycemic index.

Conclusion

Arrowroot starch is an excellent gluten-free, easily digestible, and flavor-neutral ingredient that serves as a valuable thickener in many culinary applications. For most individuals, consuming arrowroot as a food ingredient is a safe and beneficial addition to their diet. However, it is essential to be mindful of its potential side effects when taken in higher, more concentrated doses for medicinal purposes, which are not well-researched. The primary concerns are digestive issues, particularly constipation with overconsumption, and very rare allergic reactions. Understanding these potential risks and consulting a healthcare professional when using it beyond culinary applications ensures a safer experience.

For more detailed information on food allergies and intolerances, refer to reputable health websites like Wyndly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, while usually well-tolerated, consuming too much arrowroot starch can cause digestive issues such as constipation, bloating, and gas in some people.

No, an allergy to arrowroot starch is considered rare. However, it can occur, causing symptoms from mild skin reactions to more severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Arrowroot's binding and absorbent properties can potentially interfere with the absorption of some oral medications. It should not be combined with other diarrhea medications without medical advice to avoid severe constipation.

Yes, arrowroot starch is a naturally gluten-free product and is a popular, safe alternative for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

To avoid side effects, use arrowroot in moderation, primarily for culinary purposes. If using in larger, medicinal amounts, consult a healthcare professional and ensure adequate fluid intake.

An arrowroot allergy involves an immune system response, which can be severe, whereas an intolerance is a digestive issue that causes discomfort but is not life-threatening.

Arrowroot has a low to moderate glycemic index, but as a carbohydrate-rich starch, diabetics should monitor their blood sugar levels and intake, especially in larger quantities.