Yucca root has been used for hundreds of years as both a food and medicinal remedy. Native Americans used yucca as a natural soap as well. Today, yucca root is still a food staple in many parts of the world and may have some uses in treating arthritis. Yucca root has few significant side effects, but you should always discuss with your doctor any herbal remedies before taking them.
Diarrhea
The most common side effect of taking yucca root is diarrhea or loose stools, particularly if you take too much of it, says the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. You may experience diarrhea if you take several times the recommended amount, which is 2g of yucca root capsules or ¼ oz. of whole root daily, notes the University of Michigan Health System. Other reported gastrointestinal-related side effects of taking yucca root include nausea, stomach upset and vomiting, according to Drug Digest.
Hemolysis
Test tube studies have indicated that the saponins contained in yucca root may cause hemolysis, a condition in which the red blood cells burst, says the University of Michigan Health System. Although the potential of this side effect exists, no cases of hemolysis have occurred in humans from taking yucca root by mouth.
Mouth Irritations
Yucca root may cause mouth and throat irritations, Drug Digest says. People who've taken yucca root orally have reported sore throat, mouth irritation and a bitter taste in their mouths. If you use yucca root topically on your skin, you may also experience irritation of open wounds or cuts, Drug Digest adds.
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