Overview

The bamboo plant is a type of giant grass. There are over 1,000 different species. Most grow in Asia. Young bamboo shoots are used as food and medicine.

Bamboo shoots are eaten like other vegetables. They're a source of protein, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins E and C. They also contain chemicals that might have anti-cancer and thyroid effects.

People use bamboo for dental cavities and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for BAMBOO overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Bamboo shoots that have been processed properly are likely safe when consumed as food. There isn't enough reliable information to know if bamboo is safe or what the side effects might be when used in larger amounts as medicine.

When applied to the skin: Toothpaste containing bamboo salt is possibly safe when used twice daily for up to 4 weeks. There isn't enough reliable information to know if bamboo is safe or what the side effects might be when applied to other parts of the body.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Bamboo shoots that have been processed properly are likely safe when consumed as food. There isn't enough reliable information to know if bamboo is safe or what the side effects might be when used in larger amounts as medicine.

When applied to the skin: Toothpaste containing bamboo salt is possibly safe when used twice daily for up to 4 weeks. There isn't enough reliable information to know if bamboo is safe or what the side effects might be when applied to other parts of the body.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if bamboo is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Thyroid disorders, such as too little thyroid function (hypothyroidism), an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter), or a thyroid tumor: Taking bamboo shoots long-term might make these conditions worse.

Interactions ?

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications for an overactive thyroid (Antithyroid drugs) interacts with BAMBOO

    Eating bamboo shoots long-term might decrease thyroid function. Medications for an overactive thyroid also decrease thyroid function. Taking bamboo shoots along with medications for an overactive thyroid might decrease thyroid function too much.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of bamboo might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

View References

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.