Kadha – This ghar ka nuskha has gained popularity in the last two years. From Whatsapp to social media handles, everyone has been sharing their version of this concoction, claiming that it can help in boosting immunity to keep you protected from covid-19 virus.
And unfortunately, all of us started to treat it like an elixir, without even realising how terrible it can be for organs like the liver. We were so blindsided by the wonders of the kadha that we forgot to pay attention to its side-effects.
That’s why we want you all to press pause for a while, and look at the side-effects of drinking too much kadha. And trust us, you will be shocked to know how wrong you’ve been until now.
Here are seven reasons why you need to limit your kadha intake
According to Dr Jyotsna Kadam, an ayurveda expert at Vedicure healthcare and wellness, Pune, kadhá or a herbal concoction is made of ginger, cloves, lemon, garlic, turmeric, pepper, and other spices. No doubt, all these herbs help in boosting immunity, but only when taken in moderation.
“The problem is that people don’t know where to stop, and just go on drinking this herbal potion. They believe that their immunity will boost within a day after consuming kadha. But, it isn’t true at all. Excess kadha is not advisable, as it can be problematic for the person,” says Dr Kadam.
Here are some problems that drinking kadha can lead to:
1. Constipation
Going overboard on kadhas causes constipation, as the overload of herbs can stop you from pooping.
2. Heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
If you’ve been consuming it every single day, get prepared to encounter problems like acidity, worsening of heartburn, and GERD because of the presence of spices. These spices produce heat in the body, which can change the pH level of your gut and cause acid reflux.
3. Liver infection and failure
“Did you know? The condiments that are used in the herbal concoctions are concentrated and lead to excessive heat in the body. This could ultimately cause detrimental health effects. Thus, one will also get a liver infection or ultimately liver failure,” warns Dr Kadam.
4. Piles or hemorrhoids:
The spices and condiments in kadhas create excessive heat in the body, aggravating or inducing piles.
5. Nose bleeding
Have you been drinking kadhas during the pandemic to boost immunity? Then, you are doing it all wrong. Doing so can land you in trouble and cause bleeding of the nose. The kadha is packed with spices like black pepper and cinnamon that are hot in nature, and can trigger bleeding.
6. Acne and dryness of the skin
Again, production of excessive heat in the body can cause acne breakouts. Not just that, you might feel your skin turn itchy or dry, because of the combination of spices that go into a kadha.
7. Mouth ulcers
As mentioned above, the spices produce heat, which can cause mouth ulcers. Also, certain combinations of spices disrupt the biomes of your mouth, which could also lead to problems like bleeding gums and bad breath. So, it is also important to choose your ingredients wisely.
“Have half a cup of kadha twice or thrice a week. Do not go overboard by drinking 2-3 cups a day. Doing so can be harmful to your health. Moreover, you need to use ingredients in the quantity mentioned by an expert,” recommends Dr Kadam.
The last word
Try to drink the kadha early in the morning or evening, but at room temperature. Remember, moderation is the key.
Another important thing that you must note is that people with comorbidities, or for instance heart patients who are on blood thinners, or those who are on medication for chronic diseases must avoid consuming kadhas. Doing so can deteriorate their health, and raise the risk of bleeding.
Also, those who are suffering from conditions like piles or hyperacidity need to avoid kadhas. Also, do not drink it without the knowledge of your doctor. Report any side effects on an immediate basis, and do not miss any red flags like bleeding, piles, constipation, as doing so can be dangerous for you.
Phew! Who would have thought that this so-called magical kadha can mess up with our health like this? That’s why it is important you think twice before including something in your health and wellness routine. It’s better to be safe than sorry!