10 Possible Side Effects Of Peumus Boldus (Chilean Boldo)

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean boldo, has some side effects when used improperly, such as digestive issues, nausea, and allergic reactions.

These side effects can occur due to excessive consumption, interactions with medications, or individual sensitivities.

For instance, digestive issues can lead to stomach pain, diarrhea, and nutrient deficiencies, affecting people's ability to work and maintain daily activities.

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

1. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean boldo, causes allergic reactions due to its high concentration of compounds such as sesquiterpenes and triterpenoids.

These bioactive compounds can trigger an immune response in some individuals, leading to symptoms like hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.

The severity of these reactions can vary depending on the individual's level of sensitivity and the amount of Peumus boldus ingested or applied topically.

2. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean boldo, triggers skin rashes due to its ability to stimulate the immune system and increase histamine production.

This can lead to an allergic response, causing symptoms such as hives, itching, and redness of the skin.

Additionally, the alkaloids present in Peumus boldus may cause irritation and inflammation of the skin, resulting in a rash or dermatitis-like reaction.

3. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean Boldo, induces stomach upset in some individuals.

This is likely due to its ability to stimulate digestive secretions and increase gut motility, which can irritate the stomach lining and cause discomfort. Additionally, P. boldus contains alkaloids that may interfere with digestion and absorption of nutrients, leading to symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain.

These effects are often temporary and may subside once the body adjusts to the herb's presence.

4. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean Boldo, stimulates diarrhea due to its high concentration of volatile oils, particularly boldine and isoboldine.

These compounds have a profound effect on the digestive system, increasing bowel movements and stimulating the gut's natural contractions, leading to loose stools and frequent bowel movements.

5. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean Boldo, increases blood pressure due to its ability to constrict blood vessels and increase cardiac output.

The herb contains a number of bioactive compounds, including scopoletin and umbelliferone, which have been shown to have vasoconstrictive effects.

As a result, regular use of Peumus boldus may lead to an elevation in blood pressure, potentially posing a risk to individuals with pre-existing hypertension or cardiovascular disease.

6. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean Boldo, suppresses appetite by altering gut hormone levels and slowing down gastric emptying.

This herb's alkaloids have been shown to reduce the release of ghrelin, the "hunger hormone", while increasing the production of cholecystokinin, a hormone that promotes feelings of fullness and satiety.

As a result, individuals may experience a decrease in their desire to eat, leading to appetite suppression.

7. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean boldo, provokes insomnia due to its stimulating properties that can interfere with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

The active compounds present in Peumus boldus, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, may cause an increase in alertness and energy levels, making it difficult for individuals to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.

This can lead to insomnia, characterized by difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep.

8. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean Boldo, irritates respiratory system by containing a chemical compound called boldine, which can stimulate the mucous membranes and increase mucus production in the airways.

This may lead to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Additionally, Peumus boldus has been shown to cause bronchospasm, which is a constriction of the airway muscles, leading to further respiratory distress.

9. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean boldo, elicits anxiety attacks due to its potential interaction with certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

The plant's alkaloids, particularly quercetin and isothymonin, may affect serotonin levels, leading to feelings of unease, fear, and apprehension. Additionally, P. boldus may also stimulate the release of stress hormones like cortisol, further exacerbating anxiety symptoms.

As a result, individuals using P. boldus supplements or extracts may experience increased anxiety attacks, often characterized by rapid heartbeat, sweating, and tremors.

10. Increases risk of overdose

Peumus boldus, also known as Chilean Boldo, aggravates depression due to its ability to affect serotonin levels in the brain.

This herbal supplement can alter the way neurotransmitters function, leading to changes in mood and emotional well-being. As a result, individuals who are already prone to depression may experience worsened symptoms or new onset of depressive episodes while using Peumus boldus.

The exact mechanisms by which this occurs are still not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the supplement's influence on the brain's chemical balance.