Herb-Drug Interactions

Commonly Used Medicinal Plants and Herb-Drug Interactions

• Aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory properties, dilates capillaries, and aids in wound healing.
• Willow bark is used for its analgesic, antipyretic, and astringent properties and is recommended for the treatment of rheumatic, arthritic conditions, headache, and gout.
• Valerian is a mild sedative and is used as a sleep aid in insomnia.
• St. John's wort has anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant properties and is also an MAO inhibitor.
• Licorice is a carminative, antiemetic, and cholagogue and is recommended for the treatment of dizziness.
• Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and is recommended for the treatment of headache, fever, menstrual problems, and as an appetite suppressant.
• Milk thistle is used in liver diseases/disorders such as jaundice, cirrhosis, and hepatitis.
• Cranberry is used for its antioxidant properties and in the treatment of UTIs, but it can interact with drugs such as warfarin, antihypertensive drugs, and coenzyme Q-10.
• Echinacea is an immunostimulant and antimicrobial, but it can interact with drugs such as caffeine, docetaxel, etoposide, lovastatin, and warfarin.
• Fish oil, an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, can interact with drugs such as HIV/AIDS medications, birth control pills, and antihypertensive drugs.
• Garlic is an antimicrobial and can interact with drugs such as HIV/AIDS medications, birth control pills, cyclosporine, and anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.
• Panax ginseng is an adaptogen and anti-aging supplement and is recommended for the treatment of arthritis, impotence, senility, fatigue, and for improving athletic performance. However, it can interact with drugs such as warfarin, MAOIs, digoxin, antidiabetic drugs, and immunosuppressants.