5 Harmful Effects Of Eating Thyme In Excess

Thyme (scientific name-Thymus Vulgaris) is an evergreen shrub known for its medicinal and culinary uses. Cultivation of thyme dates back to the Egyptian era. It is native to the Mediterranean region and certain parts of Africa.

Thyme provides many health and beauty benefits due to the abundance of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals antioxidants, phytonutrients polyphenols, and dietary fibers, etc.

Despite these benefits, eat thyme in moderation to avoid the possible side effects of eating too much thyme.

# Irritates Mucous Membrane

The antimicrobial compounds like thymol and carvacrol in thyme protect us from various diseases causing microbes, minimizes the risk of various microbial infections, and promote good health.

However, studies have found that these compounds can irritate the mucous membrane in individuals who might be allergic to these compounds.If you are allergic to these compounds, then it’s better to take out thyme from your diet.

# Might Develop Allergic Reactions In Some Individuals

Because of its rich nutritious profile that includes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, etc, thyme provides several health and beauty benefits.Weight loss management, stronger immunity, cholesterol management, protection from acne, reduced risk of premature aging are to name a few.Unfortunately, thyme is also known to cause allergic reactions in some individuals, and they should avoid thyme completely.

Individuals who are allergic to basil, catmint, celery, rosemary, and oregano are highly likely to be allergic to thyme.Thyme allergy may cause skin irritation and itching, skin redness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.Thymol and carvacrol in thyme may irritate the mucous membrane in some individuals.

# Might Cause Adverse Reaction to Thyroid

As per a German study published in 1982, “Thymus Serpyllum”, a variety of thyme was found to cause an adverse reaction on the pituitary gland that stimulates thyroid hormones.Individuals with thyroid disorders should avoid this variety of thyme as it may aggravate the thyroid problems.

# Not So Good For Pregnancy And Breastfeeding Stage

Our health largely depends on what we eat and drink. During pregnancy and nursing, this becomes even more important.What a woman eats or drinks during pregnancy and nursing not only determines her health but also the health and wellness of the fetus developing in her womb, and the infant that depends on her.With its rich nutritious profile, thyme seems like a perfect green leafy vegetable to be consumed during pregnancy and the nursing period.

Antioxidants and relevant compounds in the thyme protect the fetus from the oxidative damage caused by the free radicals, and other vitamins and minerals in the thyme also play a significant role in the growth and development of the fetus, and in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. However, thyme can also increase the risk of miscarriage because of its natural menstruation inducing properties.

To ensure safety during pregnancy, consult your doctor before adding thyme to your diet during this crucial stage.Nursing mothers are also advised to eat thyme in moderation as excessive thyme can adversely affect the breastmilk, thereby increasing the risk of digestive problems like indigestion and flatulence, etc. in the baby that depends on it.

# Can Interact With Certain Drugs

Thyme is loaded with essential nutrients that provide amazing health and beauty benefits. However, not everyone can enjoy these benefits.

People with a thyroid disorder should avoid “Thymus Serpyllum” ( a variety of thyme) because of its ability to aggravate thyroid disorders.If you are taking medication for controlling thyroid disorders, then you should eliminate thyme from your diet as otherwise, it could interfere with the functionality of thyroid medication.

Thymol, a compound present in the thyme is known for absorbing “5-fluorouracil”, an element used in chemotherapy.This could interfere with the chemotherapy. It is advised to stop consuming thyme two weeks before chemotherapy.