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Side Effects Of Cilantro

Cilantro can trigger allergic reactions ranging from itching to anaphylaxis in rare cases. Its high fiber content may cause digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea. Photosensitivity can occur due to psoralen content, making skin vulnerable to sunburns. Excessive consumption during pregnancy might lead to uterine contractions.

  • 27 Mar 2025
  • 3 min read
  • 146 views

Do you enjoy the smell of freshly cut herbs? Cilantro is one of the most aromatic and widely used herbs, adding fresh flavour to various dishes. Many appreciate its taste and health benefits, like weight management and inflammation reduction. However, some may suffer cilantro side effects.

This article reviews the potential disadvantages of cilantro.

What are the side effects of cilantro?

Although coriander is generally safe for most people, some may encounter adverse reactions. Here are some of the notable cilantro side effects:

  • May cause allergic reactions

    While cilantro allergy is rare, it is real and may affect some people. The symptoms occur in different forms, including itching, coughing, swelling, skin rashes, diarrhoea, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases. In case of anaphylaxis, look out for symptoms like a swollen tongue, difficulty swallowing, shock, and facial swelling. If you notice any of these signs after consuming coriander, it's best to seek medical attention immediately. There are cases where doctors prescribe Epi-pen to handle such emergencies.
  • Digestive discomfort

    Overconsumption of cilantro may lead to digestive issues such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. This can be due to its high fibre content, which might not be good for sensitive stomachs. Worst cases of diarrhoea might lead to dehydration. If you have gastrointestinal conditions or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), consider taking cilantro moderately.
  • Skin sensitivity

    Photosensitivity is among the allergic reactions of cilantro as it contains psoralen, an element that makes your skin sensitive to light. In such cases, you get sunburns when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun. It is advisable to stay away from the sunlight as it may increase the possibility of getting cancer. Handling fresh coriander may cause skin irritation or dermatitis in some individuals. If you develop redness or itching after touching coriander, consider using gloves while preparing it.
  • Complications for pregnant women

    While cilantro is safe in moderate amounts, excessive consumption might lead to uterine contractions due to its bioactive compounds’ effect on hormone levels. This could pose risks during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consume cilantro in controlled quantities and consult a healthcare provider if unsure about its safety.

Conclusion


For most people, cilantro is safe for consumption. While it offers excellent health benefits, you must be mindful of cilantro side effects to avoid adverse reactions. Take coriander moderately or eliminate it from your diet if you experience symptoms like hives, swelling, and asthma. It is crucial to seek medical advice whenever necessary. Better still, consider having health insurance to handle medical concerns that may arise.


Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared. 

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