Cilantro Juice Benefits And Its Side Effects

Here are the key benefits of drinking cilantro juice:

Promotes Digestive Health

Drinking cilantro juice in the morning can help improve digestion and metabolism throughout the day. The herb stimulates the release of digestive enzymes, aiding in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.

Detoxifies the Body

Cilantro has chelating properties, meaning it binds to heavy metals in the body and helps flush them out. The leaves contain compounds that activate the body's natural detoxification processes.

Provides Antioxidants

Cilantro is rich in antioxidants like terpinene, quercetin, and tocopherols, as well as vitamins A and C. These compounds boost immunity and have neuroprotective and anticancer properties.

Supports Heart Health

Research suggests that cilantro lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, balances blood sugar levels, and protects against cardiac damage. The herb is also a good source of potassium, which is critical for heart health.

Fights Harmful Organisms

Dodecenal, a compound found in cilantro, is twice as effective at killing Salmonella, a common cause of foodborne illnesses. Cilantro also has antimicrobial properties against other bacteria.

While cilantro juice is generally safe, consuming large amounts may cause side effects like allergic reactions, upset stomach, or bleeding in some people. As with any food, it's best to consume cilantro juice in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Cilantro Juice Side Effects

Here are the key potential side effects of drinking cilantro juice:

Digestive Issues

Consuming large amounts of cilantro juice, such as over 200 ml of a 10% extract for a week, can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, diarrhea may lead to dehydration.

Allergic Reactions

Some people may be allergic to cilantro. Eating the herb can trigger allergic responses like hives, facial swelling, throat swelling, and severe diarrhea in sensitive individuals. Cilantro allergies can also manifest as eczema, dermatitis, and anaphylaxis.

Skin Sensitivity

Cilantro contains acidic compounds that can make the skin highly sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburns and potentially skin cancer. Using sunscreen is recommended when consuming large amounts of cilantro.

Bleeding Disorders

Cilantro may slow blood clotting. People with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant/antiplatelet medications should be cautious about consuming large amounts, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.

Flu-Like Symptoms

Cilantro has been linked to multiple outbreaks of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which can cause flu-like symptoms.

Taste Aversion

While not a side effect per se, some people find cilantro to have a soapy or unpleasant taste due to genetic differences in olfactory receptors.

In general, cilantro juice is safe for most people when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, those with allergies, bleeding disorders, or sensitivity to sunlight should exercise caution.