What is cha-om? A strong-smelling vegetable that many people love, but some people feel dizzy after eating it.
What is cha-om? A strong-smelling vegetable that many people love, but some people feel dizzy after eating it.
Cha-om is a delicious local vegetable that is rich in nutrients, but it can make some people feel dizzy or have side effects. Let’s see what causes it, along with advice on how to eat it.

What is cha-om ?
Acacia pennata (Senegalia pennata) is a plant in the bean family. It is a thorny shrub with leaves that have a pungent, distinctive smell. Young leaves are popularly eaten, such as in omelets or dipped in chili paste. It is commonly found in gardens or community forests in many regions of Thailand.
Benefits of Cha-om
- It is high in vitamin A and beta-carotene, which helps maintain eyesight.
- Contains dietary fiber, stimulates bowel movements.
- Contains calcium and phosphorus, which helps strengthen bones.
- It has a mild laxative effect.
- In traditional Thai medicine, it is used to nourish the digestive system.
Why do some people feel dizzy after eating cha-om ?
Although Cha-om is nutritious, some people may experience dizziness after consuming it. The causes and precautions are as follows:
- Distinctive Smell:
The distinctive smell of cha-om , which in some people who are sensitive to smells or have migraines, may cause dizziness or nausea. - Weak Digestive System
Eating Cha-om on an empty stomach or when the digestive system is not working well may make you feel dizzy more easily. - Harvest season
According to the beliefs of traditional Thai medicine and local wisdom, Cha-om should be eaten in the summer (March–May) because this is the period when the plant stores energy well. Young leaves have a balanced nutrient profile and the smell is not too strong. Cha-om should not be eaten in the rainy season (June–October) because high humidity causes the plant to produce more natural insect repellents, especially sulfur and tannin, which may cause dizziness or stomach bloating in some people. In addition, the rainy season is more at risk of parasites or fungi contamination in young leaves than the สมัคร UFABET วันนี้ รับเครดิตฟรีสำหรับสมาชิกใหม่ summer season. - Individual allergic reactions:
Although not severe allergic reactions, some people’s bodies may react sensitively to substances in vegetables, causing dizziness or discomfort after eating.
Who should not eat cha-om?
Although Cha-om is highly nutritious, there are some groups that should be avoided or consumed with caution, including:
- People who suffer from migraines or are sensitive to strong smells: The distinctive smell of cha-om can trigger dizziness or migraines.
- People with weak digestive systems: Especially the elderly or those with acid reflux may experience bloating or stomach discomfort.
- Pregnant women : Avoid vegetables with strong smells or high fiber if you have morning sickness.
- Young children: at risk of diarrhea or stomach bloating from high-fiber diets
- People who are allergic to legumes: such as peanuts or yardlong beans, because acacia pentaphyllum is in the same family.
- Kidney patients: Because Cha-om is high in potassium, eating too much can affect kidney function.
- Gout patients: Cha-om contains moderate to high levels of purines, which the body converts to uric acid, which may trigger gout attacks. Avoid or consume in small amounts, and consult a doctor first.
Heading2: How to reduce the pungent smell and side effects of Cha-om
- Blanch or boil before eating to break down sulfur.
- Avoid eating on an empty stomach.
- You should choose cha-om that is grown in summer or collected from a safe source.
- If you experience dizziness after taking it, start with a small amount and observe your symptoms.
Cha-om is a valuable local vegetable, but be careful if you are sensitive to smells or have a weak digestive system. It is recommended to consume it in the summer and avoid the rainy season to reduce the risk of dizziness. If you know how to eat it properly, you will benefit from Cha-om safely.