10 Possible Side Effects Of Centella Asiatica (Asiatic Pennywort)

Centella asiatica has some side effects when used improperly, such as allergic reactions, skin irritation, and increased heart rate.

These side effects can occur due to an overdose of the herb or an allergic reaction to its chemical composition.

In severe cases, skin irritation can lead to blistering, scarring, and chronic pain, significantly impacting daily life and relationships.

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

1. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica causes skin rash due to its potential allergenic properties.

The compound asiaticoside, present in Centella asiatica, can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals, leading to the development of a skin rash.

Additionally, the saponins and flavonoids found in the herb may also contribute to this adverse effect by stimulating an immune response and causing inflammation.

2. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica induces allergic reactions due to its unique composition of compounds such as triterpenoids and saponins.

These bioactive molecules can trigger an immune response in some individuals, causing symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling at the application site or even more severe reactions.

The exact mechanisms behind these adverse effects are not fully understood, but it is believed that individual sensitivities to certain compounds play a crucial role in eliciting an allergic response.

3. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica triggers stomach upset due to its ability to stimulate digestion and increase gut motility.

This can lead to nausea, bloating, and discomfort in some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing gastrointestinal issues.

The herb's high concentration of bioactive compounds, including saponins and triterpenes, is thought to contribute to these digestive effects, potentially causing stomach upset in susceptible users.

4. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica produces dizziness effect due to its ability to stimulate the nervous system and increase blood flow.

This can lead to a temporary feeling of lightheadedness or vertigo in some individuals.

The active compounds present in Centella asiatica, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, may contribute to this effect by altering the body's natural balance and equilibrium.

5. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica increases blood pressure due to its ability to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and increase vasopressin levels.

The herb's active compounds, including triterpenoids and glycosides, can cause vasoconstriction, leading to elevated blood pressure in some individuals.

Additionally, Centella asiatica may also interact with certain medications, such as diuretics and beta-blockers, which can further contribute to increased blood pressure readings.

6. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica lowers blood sugar levels due to its ability to stimulate the release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells.

This effect is attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds such as triterpenoid saponins and flavonoids in Centella asiatica, which enhance insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake by peripheral tissues.

As a result, Centella asiatica may interact with blood sugar-lowering medications and worsen hypoglycemia symptoms.

7. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica causes sleepiness due to its ability to increase the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and GABA in the brain.

These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating sleep patterns and can induce feelings of relaxation and drowsiness. Additionally, Centella asiatica's antioxidant properties may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are known to disrupt normal sleep-wake cycles.

As a result, users may experience increased fatigue and drowsiness when using this herbal remedy.

8. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica induces nausea vomiting in some individuals due to its strong stimulating properties on the digestive system.

The herb's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and saponins, can cause increased gastric acid secretion, leading to stomach discomfort and subsequent nausea and vomiting.

This side effect is more likely to occur when Centella asiatica is consumed in large quantities or taken without adequate digestion.

9. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica triggers headaches due to its ability to stimulate blood flow and increase nitric oxide production in the brain.

This increased circulation can lead to a surge of oxygenated blood to the brain, causing a temporary but uncomfortable sensation of increased alertness, which may manifest as headache symptoms.

Additionally, the herb's potential interaction with certain neurotransmitters and hormones could also contribute to the development of headaches.

10. Increases risk of bleeding

Centella asiatica causes fatigue feeling in some individuals due to its ability to slow down blood circulation and reduce inflammation.

The increased production of cytokines and histamine can lead to a sensation of tiredness and lethargy. Additionally, the suppression of adenosine receptors can result in decreased alertness and energy levels.

These physiological responses may contribute to the fatigue feeling experienced by some people using Centella asiatica supplements or applying topical creams containing this herb.