Ayurvedic texts have mentioned innumerable herbs which are a godsend for human health. Most people are very well aware of amla but not many are aware of the remarkable medicinal benefits of bhumi amla. Most of these traditional herbs are very effective in various diseases and do not have any significant side effects. Bhumi amla is also such an angelic herb. However, these herbs can be disadvantageous in certain circumstances. Bhumi amla is mostly considered a safe herb but can also have side effects in certain conditions. We must know about Bhumi Amla’s side effects and how to use it carefully. In this article, we will explore bhumi amla’s side effects.
Let us first know a little bit about Bhumi Amla.
Also Read: WellHealth Ayurvedic Health Tips
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What is Bhumi Amla?
Bhumi amla grows on a shrub-like plant. The plant is around 20-30 inches tall.
The plant has green-colored flowers and little fruits.
It grows on its own in the rainy season.
Bhumi amla has superb medicinal qualities.
It is widely used in Ayurvedic formulations and home remedies.
Every part of Bhumi amla including leaves, fruits, and roots is of medicinal importance.
The botanical name of Bhumi amla is Phyllanthus niruri.
It is also known by names such as Bhumi amlaki, bhui amla, tamalaki, ‘stonebreaker’, and seed-under-leaf.
According to research, bhumi amla has powerful medicinal qualities due to various phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenoids, lignans, alkaloids, tannins, polyphenols, coumarins, and saponins.
Before proceeding to talk about bhumi amla side effects, let us look at some of the remarkable bhumi amla benefits.
Amazing Bhumi Amla Benefits
Bhumi amla is highly valued in Ayurveda due to its high medicinal benefits.
Some Bhumi amla benefits include its antiviral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, hepatoprotective, and immuno-modulatory properties.
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1.) Bhumi Amla Benefits for Liver
Bhumi amla controls liver damage.
It is considered a panacea for the troubles related to the liver.
It can remove fatty liver, inflammation, and jaundice.
Due to its hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and antiviral properties, bhumi amla protects the liver from any problem and cures the damage caused to the liver.
Also Read – Bhumi Amla Benefits for Liver: Rejuvenate Liver Naturally
2.) Anti-Viral Properties
The antiviral properties of bhumi amla are beneficial in curing colds, coughs, and fever.
3.) Bhumi Amla Benefits in Diabetes
The astringent qualities of bhumi amla make it very beneficial for diabetics.
Bhumi amla kadha is very effective in diabetes and chest pain.
4.) Good for Kidney Health
The diuretic properties of bhumi amla help prevent the formation of stones in the kidney.
Bhumi amla promotes the removal of salts (mainly oxalate crystals) responsible for kidney stone formation.
It is also found effective against gallbladder stones.
That is why Bhumi Amla is also known as a ‘stonebreaker’.
5.) Other Bhumi Amla Benefits
Bhumi amla has a strong potential to stop the development and growth of cancer cells.
It is also very effective in problems related to eyes, respiration, heart, blood pressure, digestion, and skin.
There is a long list of the bhumi amla benefits, however, there are situations where its consumption may pose risks as well.
Let us now know about Bhumi amla side effects.
Bhumi Amla Side Effects
Consuming bhumi amla in a controlled manner and under the guidance of a healthcare professional has a lesser chance of causing any trouble.
Some people may have sensitivity or allergy to certain herbs. Consuming any such herb can leave its side effects on such people.
Understanding the following bhumi amla side effects will help you avoid such situations.
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1.) Diuretic Effects
Bhumi amla has diuretic properties.
If you are taking a water pill, the bhumi amla may exacerbate the disease further.
2.) Allergies
Some people may get allergies after consuming bhumi amla.
Symptoms to look out for are itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, rashes, etc.
3.) Reduces Blood Sugar Levels
Bhumi amla’s side effects may include reducing blood sugar levels.
Bhumi amla is considered beneficial in diabetes but it may interfere with diabetes medicines.
It has blood sugar-lowering properties.
A sudden decline in sugar levels is a dangerous condition.
A qualified healthcare professional should closely monitor the individuals taking oral diabetes medications or insulin.
Keep checking your blood sugar levels.
Take an expert’s advice concerning the consumption of bhumi amla.
4.) Bhumi Amla Side Effects on Digestion
Bhumi amla may trouble your digestion system.
People already dealing with digestive issues may experience vomiting, stomach aches, or diarrhea-like symptoms after consuming bhumi amla.
5.) Avoid Overconsumption
The medicinal qualities of herbs are beneficial only when consumed in moderation.
Overconsumption of herbs can cause trouble.
Always consult a doctor or Ayurvedic expert and take personalized advice depending on your health condition.
Though bhumi amla is a boon for the liver, its overconsumption may accentuate liver problems.
Bhumi amla has cooling properties, consuming it for a long time in arthritis can increase the trouble.
Avoid consuming bhumi amla for a prolonged period in arthritis.
6.) Bhumi Amla Side Effects in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers must avoid consuming bhumi amla.
Even when trying to conceive, women must avoid consuming it.
There is limited research on the effects of bhumi amla on pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, hence, it is advisable to avoid its consumption.
7.) Increased Risk of Bleeding
If Bhumi amla is consumed with medications that have the risk of increasing the bleeding, it may further accentuate the problem.
8.) Bhumi Amla Side Effects on BP
Bhumi amla may lower blood pressure.
Individuals taking blood pressure-lowering medicines must exercise caution in including bhumi amla in their diet.
You must always consult your doctor before adding bhumi amla to your diet.
9.) Drowsy Effects
Bhumi amla may exacerbate the sleepiness caused by medicines or alcohol.
It is, therefore, recommended not to drive or operate any machinery after consuming it.
10.) May Interfere with Medications
Bhumi Amla may interact with the following medicines:
- medicines used to treat swelling, pain, or wounds,
- medicines that affect immunity,
- medicines that damage the liver,
- medicines that increase urine production,
- drugs that mimic acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter),
- medications that protect against radiation, and
- medicines that treat cancer.
Takeaway Message
Bhumi amla is highly beneficial for human health.
It works as an elixir in liver disorders.
It is equally effective in treating diabetes, heart problems, and many diseases.
Most people consider Bhumi Amla a safe herb, but it also has side effects.
Consult your doctor for a personalized opinion on consuming Bhumi Amla, based on your medical history and needs.
Avoid overconsumption of bhumi amla as it is laxative and may cause diarrhea.
Diabetics must keep checking their sugar levels while consuming bhumi amla.
You can avoid bhumi amla side effects if consumed under proper guidance and in moderation.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the writer’s opinions and should not be considered a substitute for an expert’s advice.