Overview

Candlenut is the seed of the fruit produced by the candlenut tree (Aleurites moluccanus). The seed, seed oil, and kernel have sometimes been used as medicine.

While candlenuts resemble walnuts in appearance, candlenuts are extremely poisonous, even deadly, if they are eaten raw or undercooked. Candlenut contains various substances that might stimulate the bowels and cause sweating. It also contains toxic chemicals, such as cyanide.

People use candlenut for asthma and constipation and to encourage hair growth, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Using candlenut can also be unsafe.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for CANDLENUT overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Candlenut is unsafe. It contains a chemical similar to cyanide as well as other poisons. Even one seed might cause severe poisoning. Candlenut can cause extreme stomach pain, violent vomiting, breathing problems, and possibly death.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if candlenut is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Candlenut is unsafe. It contains a chemical similar to cyanide as well as other poisons. Even one seed might cause severe poisoning. Candlenut can cause extreme stomach pain, violent vomiting, breathing problems, and possibly death.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if candlenut is safe or what the side effects might be.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It's unsafe for anyone to take candlenut by mouth. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, it could harm you as well as your baby.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for CANDLENUT overview.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of candlenut 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.

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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.