10 Possible Side Effects Of Butea Superba (Red Kwao Krua)

Butea superba has some side effects when used improperly, such as allergic reactions, interactions with medications, and excessive consumption leading to insomnia, dizziness, and stomach issues.

These side effects can be caused by individual sensitivities or combinations with other substances, including prescription medications.

For example, excessive dizziness can cause falls and injuries, while insomnia can lead to decreased productivity and mood disorders, negatively impacting daily life and overall well-being.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Butea superba if used imporperly.

1. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba causes allergic reactions due to its high concentration of isoflavones and alkaloids.

These compounds can stimulate the immune system, leading to an overactive response and resulting in symptoms such as hives, itching, and swelling. In some cases, severe allergic reactions may occur, triggering anaphylaxis or other life-threatening conditions.

The exact mechanisms behind this reaction are not fully understood, but it is believed that individual sensitivities to these compounds play a significant role.

2. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba increases blood pressure due to its ability to stimulate the body's natural production of nitric oxide and relax smooth muscle tissues.

This can lead to vasodilation, causing blood vessels to dilate and increasing blood pressure.

Additionally, Butea superba may interact with other medications that already affect blood pressure, further contributing to this side effect.

3. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba enhances anxiety levels by stimulating the body's natural adrenaline production.

The plant contains flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can cause an increase in cortisol and adrenaline levels, leading to feelings of jitteriness, restlessness, and heightened alertness.

Additionally, Butea superba may also interact with certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, to amplify anxiety sensations.

4. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba affects thyroid function.

The compound daidzein, present in Butea superba, is believed to interfere with the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), leading to alterations in thyroid hormone levels. Additionally, the herb's ability to stimulate estrogen receptors may also contribute to its impact on thyroid function, potentially causing fluctuations in T3 and T4 levels.

As a result, individuals using Butea superba may experience changes in their metabolic rate, mood, or energy levels due to altered thyroid function.

5. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba triggers skin irritation due to its high content of isoflavones and saponins.

These compounds can cause an allergic reaction or hypersensitivity in some individuals, leading to skin redness, itching, rashes, and hives.

The irritant properties of Butea superba may also exacerbate existing skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis.

6. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba lowers blood sugar due to its ability to stimulate insulin secretion and increase glucose uptake in the body.

This is thought to be caused by the plant's high concentration of flavonoids, particularly kaempferol, which has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity and improve glucose metabolism.

As a result, individuals taking Butea superba may experience hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, potentially leading to symptoms such as dizziness, shakiness, and confusion.

7. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba stimulates heart rate due to its ability to increase blood flow and dilate blood vessels.

This is attributed to the presence of isoflavones, which are known to have a vasodilatory effect on the cardiovascular system.

As a result, individuals taking Butea superba may experience an increase in heart rate, which can be a temporary and harmless side effect.

8. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba induces insomnia due to its stimulatory effects on the nervous system.

The compound daidzein, present in Butea superba, can increase alertness and energy levels by stimulating the brain's neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. As a result, individuals may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night, leading to insomnia.

This stimulatory effect can occur even at moderate doses of Butea superba supplementation.

9. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba reduces fertility rates in some individuals due to its ability to affect hormone levels and sperm quality.

The compound daidzein, found in Butea superba, has been shown to suppress testosterone production, leading to decreased sperm count and motility. Additionally, the herb's estrogenic properties may also play a role in reducing fertility by altering the balance of sex hormones in the body.

As a result, some individuals may experience difficulty conceiving or maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

10. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Butea superba elevates cortisol levels due to its ability to stimulate the body's natural stress response.

The plant's bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and saponins, interact with the adrenal gland, causing an increase in cortisol production.

This heightened cortisol level may lead to a range of effects, including increased alertness, anxiety, and insomnia.