EATING TULSI LEAVES CAN HAVE THESE 5 SIDE EFFECTS: Due to the uncountable health benefits Tulsi has, it is considered as the ‘Golden remedy of Ayurveda’. A Tulsi plant is present in every Indian household as we worship the plant and use it for medicinal purposes. And so, we are sure you never thought that Tulsi can have any side effects. But much to our dismay, these leaves packed with goodness can have some potential health implications too. Read on to know the five side effects of Tulsi leaves.
NOT SUITABLE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN: Tulsi leaves can adversely affect the health of a pregnant woman and her embryo. In severe cases, it can even lead to a miscarriage. The herb, due to the presence of estragol in it, may cause uterus contractions that may be dangerous. These leaves can also affect menstrual cycle of a woman and can cause diarrhoea.
MAY NOT BE GOOD FOR DIABETIC PATIENTS: Various studies claim that Tulsi can lower blood sugar levels. And if someone is already taking medicines for diabetes then the intake of Tulsi leaves may enhance the effect and cause the sugar level to fall too low.
MAY IMPACT MALE AND FEMALE FERTILITY: Though no human studies have yet claimed this, animal studies show that Tulsi has a negative impact on fertility of both the genders. The studies proved that Tulsi may lower sperm count, decrease the weight of reproductive organs such as testes, adrenal glands, prostate, uterus and ovary. Its ability to modulate reproductive hormones is the reason behind the antifertility effect it has. Studies are being done on its potential as a contraceptive agent. But a sigh of relief for those who are family-planning, these antifertility effects are reversible in a month’s time, says one of the studies.
MAY INTERFERE WITH BLOOD THINNING MEDICINES: The herb is known to cause thinning of the blood. It’s a good home remedy for people who don’t want to take medicine for the same purpose. But people who are already taking medicines for blood thinning, if they take Tulsi too, it may adversely affect their health.
IT MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE LIVER: According to World Health Organisation, people who are on medications like acetaminophen (pain reliever) have a greater risk of liver damage if they consume the holy basil regularly. This is because both are pain relievers. When they both work together, they tend to affect the functioning of the liver.
MAY STAIN YOUR TEETH: You must have always been told not to chew Tulsi leaves and rather swallow them as chewing them is said to be disrespectful. But there is a scientific reason behind the same. Tulsi leaves have iron which may stain your teeth when chewed. You should simply gulp them down to avoid discolouration of your teeth.
