Can basil seeds be consumed long-term?
Nov 06, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
In general, Lan Xiang Zi (Basil seeds) is not recommended for long-term consumption. Although Lan Xiang Zi, also known as basil seeds, offers various health benefits such as clearing heat and detoxifying the body, promoting digestion, and helping lower lipid levels and lose weight, excessive or improper intake may lead to certain side effects. Individuals with chronic diseases, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, should consume it cautiously to avoid potential adverse effects on health.
Generally, basil seeds are not recommended for long-term consumption. The detailed analysis is as follows:
Basil seeds, also known as sweet basil seeds, have various health benefits such as clearing heat and detoxifying the body, promoting digestion, and helping lower lipid levels and support weight loss. However, excessive or improper consumption may lead to certain side effects. Long-term and excessive intake of basil seeds may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, causing discomforts such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is because basil seeds swell upon contact with water, forming a gel-like substance that, when consumed in excess, may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and impair digestive function.
Some herbal components in basil seeds require metabolism and excretion by the liver and kidneys. Prolonged and excessive intake may overload the liver and kidneys, potentially leading to impaired liver or kidney function. Basil seeds also possess a certain level of toxicity; long-term consumption without timely metabolic clearance of their components may trigger toxic reactions such as dizziness, nausea, and palpitations. Furthermore, basil seeds contain complex ingredients, including various plant-based proteins, some of which are foreign proteins that may cause allergic reactions.
Although basil seeds offer certain health benefits, prolonged consumption may lead to a series of health issues. Therefore, long-term use is not recommended. Special populations such as patients with chronic diseases, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers should consume them cautiously to avoid adverse effects on health.
