Horse chestnut is known for its ability to treat a number of problems. It acts as a remedy for varicose veins and also provides relief from chronic circulatory problems.
But then, it does have side effects as well. Would you like to know what they are? Do read this post.
Horse chestnut is a tree, where its seeds, leaf, and branch bark are used as natural remedies for various ailments. It is used extensively across Europe to treat a plethora of venous conditions. Varicose veins, hemorrhoids, hardened arteries, phlebitis, frostbites, leg ulcers, and other such problems were treated using horse chestnut. Indigenous cultures put this tree to therapeutic use as an herbal anti-inflammatory medicine.
The leaf and seeds can treat varicose veins, phlebitis (swollen veins) and hemorrhoids (1). Seeds are used for fever, diarrhea, and enlarged prostate. Its branch bark can relieve skin ulcers and malaria. Only the leaf is used to treat joint pain, cough, eczema, and menstrual pain.
Horse chestnut seed by itself is toxic and leads to death if consumed raw. The same applies to its flower, leaf, and bark. The high concentration of a compound called esculin makes it too poisonous to eat raw. .Accidental poisoning requires immediate medical attention.
However, horse chestnut extract product is safe to consume in the short term. This is prepared by processing the seeds to separate the active compounds. The standardized products are verified to contain a specific amount of known ingredients.
Nevertheless, having horse chestnut would still lead you to experience side effects such as an upset stomach, headache, dizziness, and itchiness (2). These are usually mild, posing no real problem. Some people might experience severe allergic reactions like breathing difficulty, itching, rashes, tightness in chest, fever, swelling in the face, yellowing of eyes and skin. These reactions need medical attention.
Here are the side effects of horse chestnut.
People prone to allergies will certainly not tolerate horse chestnut. For example, those allergic to latex would probably find themselves reacting adversely to this supplement. There is a known association between latex allergy and allergies towards plant-derived foods. This is named latex-fruit syndrome, of which chestnut is a part.
One of the mild side effects of horse chestnut comprises stomach irritation. Using the tree’s bark or seeds can further inflame the gastrointestinal tract in someone with stomach disorders. People with irritable bowel syndrome are warned against consuming horse chestnut.
Horse chestnut extract is contraindicated for people with kidney problems. Taking the supplement may worsen kidney disease.
Anyone with liver problems should avoid the supplement. Consuming horse chestnut will cause injury to the liver, aggravating any existing problems.
Horse chestnut may create a drop in blood sugar in diabetics. While not immediately harmful, diabetics are advised to check their blood sugar carefully. Extremely low blood sugar is very harmful, possibly leading to hypoglycemic shock and coma.
Horse chestnut is also not advised for people with bleeding disorders as it can slow down blood clotting. Consuming the extract might lead to increased bruising and blood loss. For those suffering from bleeding disorders, all it takes is a little wound to result in considerable bleeding.
The supplement is unsafe when consumed before a surgery as it causes more bleeding. The product slows blood clotting, making it extremely risky during surgery. Those eating horse chestnut extracts are advised to discontinue it two weeks before going for a surgery.
Although horse chestnut is safe for healthy individuals, not much is known about its activity during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As the product has poisonous implications, it is better to be on the safer side. Though the side effects of horse chestnut supplement are not too dangerous it is better avoided during pregnancy.
This is all about the horse chestnut side effects! Armed with both the good and the bad sides of this herbal treatment, you can take an informed decision about your health. Did you find the post helpful? Please let us know in the comments section below.