10 Possible Side Effects Of Croton Lechleri (Dragon'S Blood)

Croton lechleri has some side effects when used improperly, such as nausea and vomiting, dizziness, and allergic reactions.

These side effects can occur when the herb is taken in excess, contaminated, or combined with other medications.

For instance, a person with a sensitive stomach may experience severe nausea and vomiting, leading to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and missed work or school days.

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

1. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lechleri causes allergic reactions due to its high concentration of sap and resinous compounds.

These substances can trigger an immune response in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, swelling, and blistering of the skin or mucous membranes.

The exact mechanisms behind this reaction are not fully understood, but it is thought that the plant's chemical composition may be too intense for certain individuals, causing their bodies to react negatively.

2. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lechleri triggers skin irritation due to its high concentration of sap, which contains compounds like lignans and flavonoids.

These chemical components can cause allergic reactions, leading to redness, itching, and inflammation on the skin surface.

Additionally, the latex-like sap may contain irritant properties that can exacerbate existing skin conditions or cause new ones.

3. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lechileri produces respiratory problems.

The resin of this plant contains latex, which can cause allergic reactions and irritate the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Additionally, the volatile oils present in Croton lechleri may also contribute to these respiratory issues by increasing airway resistance and stimulating mucus production.

4. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lechleri induces gastrointestinal issues due to its high saponin content.

Saponins are a type of glycoside that can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Additionally, the latex contained within the sap may contribute to these adverse effects, causing stomach discomfort and cramps.

As the body processes the plant's compounds, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset.

5. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lechleri enhances blood pressure due to its ability to stimulate the cardiovascular system.

The plant contains compounds that increase heart rate and contractility, leading to an elevation in systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels.

This effect is thought to be attributed to the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, and other bioactive molecules that interact with the body's physiological processes, ultimately resulting in increased blood pressure.

6. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lechleri interferes with medications by containing compounds that can alter the way the body processes certain prescription drugs.

The sap of the plant contains antioxidants and flavonoids, which may interact with blood thinners, anticoagulants, and antiplatelet agents, potentially decreasing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of bleeding.

Additionally, Croton lechleri's ability to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels may also affect the efficacy of medications used to treat hypertension and hyperlipidemia.

7. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lechleri increases heart rate due to its stimulatory properties, which can cause a rise in blood pressure and cardiac output.

This is likely attributed to the presence of certain alkaloids and flavonoids present in the plant, which have been shown to exhibit vasodilatory effects, causing an increase in heart rate and contractility.

As a result, individuals may experience palpitations or arrhythmias, which can be a temporary but potentially uncomfortable side effect of using Croton lechleri.

8. Induces psychological disturbances

9. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lechleri affects liver function by inducing a reaction that causes an increase in liver enzymes, which can lead to damage and inflammation.

This is due to the plant's high concentration of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes, which are known to have hepatotoxic properties.

The compound crotonoside, found in the plant, has been shown to cause cytotoxicity and apoptosis in liver cells, resulting in adverse effects on liver function.

10. Induces psychological disturbances

Croton lecheleri causes kidney stones due to its high concentration of anthraquinones and triterpenoids.

These compounds can increase urine production and alter the way the body absorbs calcium, leading to an excessive buildup of minerals in the kidneys, which may result in stone formation.

This side effect is often associated with long-term use or high dosages of Croton lechleri supplements or extracts.