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.
Is It Effective?
There is interest in using bamboo for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is it Safe?
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 & Warnings:
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.
Medications for an overactive thyroid (Antithyroid drugs)
Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
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.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
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.
Arrow Bamboo, Arundinaria japonica, Bambou, Bambou Flèche, Bambou du Japon, Bamboo Leaf Extract, Bambou Métaké, Bambú, Pseudosasa japonica, Sasa japonica, Yadake.
Information on this website is for informational use only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While evidence-based, it is not guaranteed to be error-free and is not intended to meet any particular user’s needs or requirements or to cover all possible uses, safety concerns, interactions, outcomes, or adverse effects. Always check with your doctor or other medical professional before making healthcare decisions (including taking any medication) and do not delay or disregard seeking medical advice or treatment based on any information displayed on this website.
© TRC Healthcare 2024. All rights reserved. Use and/or distribution is permitted only pursuant to a valid license or other permission from TRC Healthcare.