CUCUMBER: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews (2024)

Overview

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a creeping vine that grows long fruit commonly eaten as a vegetable. The fruit, seed, and stem are used in medicine.

Cucumber seed contains fats that might help lower cholesterol. The fruit contains chemicals that might help to reduce swelling and speed up wound healing.

People use cucumber for burns, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse cucumber with Chinese cucumber. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for CUCUMBER overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Cucumbers are commonly consumed as food. Cucumber extract and cucumber seed extract are possibly safe when used as medicine, short-term. There isn't enough reliable information to know if other cucumber products are safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Cucumber extract, fruit, fruit extract, fruit water, juice, seed extract, and seed oil are likely safe when used appropriately. Some people might experience mild skin redness or irritation.

Special Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Cucumbers are commonly consumed as food. There isn't enough reliable information to know if cucumber is safe to use in larger amounts as a medicine when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts.

Allergies: Cucumber may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to other fruits and plants, such as kiwi, melon, watermelon, banana, apricot, latex, papaya, celery, carrot, and ragweed. Avoid eating cucumber if you are allergic to any of these products.

Diabetes: Cucumber seed might decrease blood sugar levels. This might increase the chance of blood sugar levels becoming too low in people being treated for diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar carefully.

Surgery: Cucumber seed might lower blood sugar levels. This might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using cucumber seed at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Cucumbers are commonly consumed as food. Cucumber extract and cucumber seed extract are possibly safe when used as medicine, short-term. There isn't enough reliable information to know if other cucumber products are safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Cucumber extract, fruit, fruit extract, fruit water, juice, seed extract, and seed oil are likely safe when used appropriately. Some people might experience mild skin redness or irritation.

Special Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Cucumbers are commonly consumed as food. There isn't enough reliable information to know if cucumber is safe to use in larger amounts as a medicine when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts.

Allergies: Cucumber may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to other fruits and plants, such as kiwi, melon, watermelon, banana, apricot, latex, papaya, celery, carrot, and ragweed. Avoid eating cucumber if you are allergic to any of these products.

Diabetes: Cucumber seed might decrease blood sugar levels. This might increase the chance of blood sugar levels becoming too low in people being treated for diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar carefully.

Surgery: Cucumber seed might lower blood sugar levels. This might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using cucumber seed at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions ?

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with CUCUMBER

    Cucumber seed might lower blood sugar levels. Taking cucumber seed along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

Dosing

Cucumbers are commonly eaten as a vegetable. But as medicine, there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of cucumber 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 circ*mstances. 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.

CUCUMBER: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews (2024)

FAQs

What is one major side effect of eating cucumber? ›

Side-Effects & Allergies of Cucumber

Cucumber contains toxins like cucurbitacins and tetracyclic triterpenoids which can prove detrimental if consumed in large quantities. Cucurbitin, a mild anti-diuretic, is present in cucumber and excess of it can leave you highly dehydrated.

Who should not drink cucumber juice? ›

Allergies: Cucumber may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to other fruits and plants, such as kiwi, melon, watermelon, banana, apricot, latex, papaya, celery, carrot, and ragweed. Avoid eating cucumber if you are allergic to any of these products.

What effect does cucumber have on the body? ›

All that water in cucumbers can help keep you hydrated. Plus, the fiber boost they give you helps you stay regular and avoid constipation. The vitamin K helps blood clot and keep your bones healthy. Vitamin A has many jobs, like helping with vision, the immune system, and reproduction.

What are the side effects of cucumber detox water? ›

There are no reported significant side effects of drinking cucumber water. However, some people might find cucumber hard to digest. A 2015 study found that cucumbers aggravated the symptoms of 59.7% of people with non-ulcer dyspepsia or indigestion.

Why is cucumber not eaten at night? ›

Cucumber can be consumed at any time of the day or night as it helps to balance all the three doshas and helps to maintain the water content of the body. If you have weak or poor digestion then you must avoid taking at night because Cucumber seeds are heavy to digest.

Is it OK to eat one cucumber everyday? ›

Cucumber contains phosphorus which is a key nutrient for hormonal balance in the body. Cucumbers contain around 4% of the phosphorus suggested for daily intake for adults. To reap its maximum benefit, add it to your daily diet and stay healthy.

Why should we not drink water after eating cucumber? ›

"Consumption of water immediately after having cucumber could increase GI motility and affect the natural process of digestion and absorption," says Ms. Priya Palan, Consulting Dietician, Zen Hospital, Chembur.

What should not be mixed with cucumber? ›

Cucumber and tomato are both eaten together in salads. But this is not the right food combination in terms of health. Actually, the way these two are digested is completely different, so eating them together should be avoided.

Is cucumber juice good for kidneys? ›

Cucumbers are among the best foods to support kidney health. Here are six reasons why: They're naturally high in water, which helps flush the kidneys and support fluid and electrolyte balance. Their high-water content also makes them a filling food, which can help with weight management and conquering cravings.

Why must you not eat raw cucumber with meals? ›

But, eating cucumber with meals can cause indigestion for some people because of the compound called cucurbitacin (class of biochemical compounds). Also, cucumbers must always be eaten with its skin on after it is washed thoroughly.”

What organ are cucumbers good for? ›

Cucumber Benefits for Liver

Furthermore, cucumbers contain antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and flavonoids, which may contribute to reducing inflammation and supporting the liver's natural detoxification processes. Incorporating cucumbers into a well-balanced diet can be a refreshing and liver-friendly choice.

What is the best time to eat cucumber? ›

These green veggies are a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium and magnesium. By indulging in cucumber at night, you'll be giving your body an added boost of essential nutrients.

When not to eat cucumber? ›

Cucumber is relatively high in vitamin K. Eating too much cucumber could affect how a person's blood clots. People who use warfarin (Coumadin) or similar blood-thinning drugs should not increase their intake of cucumber dramatically or suddenly without consulting a doctor.

Can cucumber reduce belly fat? ›

A: Cucumbers alone cannot directly burn belly fat. To reduce belly fat, you must focus on making healthy dietary choices, exercising regularly, and making lifestyle changes. So while cucumbers can help with weight loss, they will not specifically target belly fat.

Does cucumber cause frequent urination? ›

Cucumbers are usually considered harmless in the context of pregnancy. However, the diuretic nature of this vegetable may lead to frequent urination and water loss, which may cause discomfort. Also the presence of fiber may cause stomach and bloating if consumed in excessive quantities.

When to not eat cucumber? ›

Dark spots can also be an indicator that your cucumber is no longer a viable snack option. If your cucumbers have a foul smell or taste, they are not safe to eat. Regular, ripe cucumbers have a light, fresh scent and flavor. If you get a sour bite, go ahead and get rid of it.

How much is too much cucumber in a day? ›

There's no specific limit on how many cucumbers you should eat per day, as it depends on your individual needs and tolerance. However, it's recommended to stick to one to two cups of vegetables per day and to vary your vegetable intake to ensure you're getting a range of nutrients.

Does cucumber reduce belly fat? ›

A: Cucumbers alone cannot directly burn belly fat. To reduce belly fat, you must focus on making healthy dietary choices, exercising regularly, and making lifestyle changes. So while cucumbers can help with weight loss, they will not specifically target belly fat.

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