Herbal Contraindictations

Astragalus - Astragalus is contraindicated for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an autoimmune disease, or are taking immunosuppressant drugs, anticoagulants, blood pressure medications, or lithium.

Astragalus may decrease excretion of lithium. 

Medication Interactions - Cyclophosphamide interacts with Astragalus.

​

 Withania (Ashwagandha) is contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, autoimmune diseases (like MS, lupus), thyroid disorders, hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., prostate), liver disease, and before surgery, due to risks of stimulating the immune system, affecting hormones, increasing drowsiness, or causing liver damage.

Medication Interactions - it also interacts with diabetes, blood pressure, sedative, immunosuppressant, and thyroid medications.

​

Skullcap - Skullcap should not be used by individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have liver conditions, or are taking sedative medications, blood thinners, or diabetes drugs.

Medication Interactions:Sedatives/CNS Depressants: Skullcap can enhance the effects of medications like benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and sleep aids, potentially causing excessive drowsiness or breathing problems.

Use caution if taking Blood Thinners/Anticoagulants/warfin, High Blood Pressure Medications, (Statins) Surgery, Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: may have estrogen-like effects, so it should be avoided if you have conditions like breast or uterine cancer, which might be made worse by estrogen exposure.

Allergies: Avoid if you have known allergies to plants in the mint family.

Medication Interactions - (benzodiazepines, barbiturates).

Thyroid Medications: Can interfere with thyroid hormone levels.

Immunosuppressants: May counteract effects by boosting immune activity.

Antidepressants: Potential for excessive serotonin if combined with SSRIs/SNRIs.

​

Passionflower - Pregnancy, breastfeeding and cardiac conditions.

Medication Interactions - Caution is required when combining passionflower with the following types of medications, as it can amplify their effects or increase the risk of adverse reactions: 

• Sedatives and CNS Depressants: Due to its own sedative properties, passionflower can cause excessive sleepiness, drowsiness, and slowed breathing when combined with other sedatives (e.g., benzodiazepines like lorazepam or alprazolam, zolpidem, barbiturates, opioids, and tricyclic antidepressants).

• Anticoagulants/Blood Thinners: Passionflower may slow blood clotting, increasing the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel.

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): It should not be taken alongside older types of antidepressants known as MAOIs due to potential interactions from its harmala alkaloid content.

• Blood Pressure Medications: Passionflower can lower blood pressure, potentially causing blood pressure to drop too low in individuals taking antihypertensive medications.

• Drugs that Prolong the QT Interval: Caution is warranted with coadministration of drugs that prolong the QT interval. 

• Liver Issues: Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions should exercise caution.

• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption when taking passionflower, 

• Allergies: Do not use if you are allergic to plants in the Passiflora genus.

​

St Johns Wort - St. John's Wort has significant contraindications, primarily due to interactions that reduce the effectiveness of many prescription drugs like birth control pills, antidepressants, blood thinners (warfarin), HIV medications, heart drugs (digoxin), and immunosuppressants (cyclosporine). It's also unsafe with triptans for migraines, some cancer drugs, anti-seizure meds, and should generally be avoided in pregnancyand breastfeeding due to risks of birth defects, colic, or lethargy in infants.  

Medication Interactions (Reduced Effectiveness/Increased Risk): 

• Blood Thinners: Warfarin (Coumadin) — increases clotting risk.

• HIV Drugs: Protease inhibitors (Indinavir) and NNRTIs.

• Heart Medications: Digoxin, blood pressure drugs.

• Immunosuppressants: Tacrolimus, Cyclosporine (risk of organ rejection).

• Anti-seizure Drugs: Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital.

• Migraine Drugs (Triptans): Risk of serotonin syndrome.

• Cancer Drugs: Some chemotherapy agents.

• Hormonal Contraceptives: Combined pills, implants, patches—SJW makes them less effective, increasing pregnancy risk.

• Antidepressants: SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline), MAOIs, and others can lead to dangerous serotonin syndrome.

Other Contraindications:

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Possibly unsafe; may cause birth defects or affect infants. 

• Surgery: Avoid before surgery due to potential interactions with anesthesia and bleeding. 

• Serotonin Syndrome Risk: Do not combine with other serotonergic drugs (most antidepressants, triptans). 

• Photosensitivity: Can cause severe skin reactions to sunlight. 

Lemon Balm -Lemon balm should be avoided by individuals with thyroid conditions (especially hypothyroidism), those using sedative medications, and generally during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

Thyroid Disorders: Lemon balm may negatively affect thyroid function and could interfere with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Glaucoma: Lemon balm may increase eye pressure.

Diabetes: Lemon balm might lower blood sugar levels and interact with diabetes medications. 

Medication Interactions

Sedatives/CNS Depressants: Combining lemon balm with sedatives can lead to excessive drowsiness or breathing issues.

Lemon balm may reduce the effectiveness of thyroid hormone medications.

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): Lemon balm may interfere with HIV medications.

Antidepressants: Use with caution with certain antidepressants like SSRIs. 

Surgery: Discontinue use at least two weeks prior to surgery due to sedative effects.

​

Oatstraw - Oatstraw is contraindicated primarily for individuals with celiac disease

• Those with known allergies to oats or grass pollen should exercise caution.

• Medication Interactions - High doses may interact with certain medications, such as diabetes drugs (insulin) and those for cholesterol (e.g., Lovastatin), by reducing their absorption; separate consumption by 1-4 hours.

• If using as a bath additive, full baths are generally not recommended for individuals with extensive weeping skin conditions, feverish illnesses, or relevant heart failure.

​

 White Willow - Aspirin Allergy/Sensitivity: Individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to aspirin or other salicylates should not use white willow.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Medication Interactions

Anticoagulants/Blood Thinners: Avoid use with drugs like warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, or clopidogrel (Plavix), as the bleeding risk is significantly increased.

• NSAIDs: Combining with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) is not recommended due to a higher risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects.

• Other Salicylates

• Diuretics and Antihypertensives: White willow may make these blood pressure or "water pill" medications less effective.

• Methotrexate and Phenytoin: may increase levels of these drugs in the blood to dangerous, toxic levels. 

​

Celery Seeds - Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid in medicinal amounts due to potential uterine stimulation and risk of miscarriage; stick to food amounts only.

Kidney Problems: Not recommended for active inflammation, failure, or disease due to potential stress on kidneys.

Bleeding Disorders: May increase bleeding risk; caution with anticoagulant drugs (like Warfarin).

• Allergies: to celery, birch, carrot, mugwort, or other Apiaceae family members 

• Sun Sensitivity

​

Nettle - Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Nettle may stimulate uterine contractions, increasing the risk of miscarriage, and can also alter hormone metabolism.

Kidney or Heart Conditions: Use with caution or avoid if you have fluid retention (edema) due to heart or kidney dysfunction.

Bleeding/Blood Clotting Disorders: Nettle contains significant amounts of vitamin K, which promotes blood clotting. Individuals with bleeding disorders or a history of blood clots (thrombosis) should avoid it.

Diabetes: Nettle can affect blood sugar levels (both raising and lowering them),

Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Nettle may lower blood pressure. 

Medication Interactions

• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): The high vitamin K content can reduce the effectiveness of blood-thinning drugs like warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) and clopidogrel (Plavix).

• Blood Pressure Medications: Due to its diuretic and hypotensive effects, nettle may amplify the effects of antihypertensives, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers, potentially causing blood pressure to drop too low.

• Diuretics ("Water Pills"): Taking nettle with prescription diuretics can increase the risk of dehydration and lower potassium levels too much.

• Diabetes Medications

• Lithium: Nettle's diuretic action can decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium, leading to dangerously high levels of the drug in the body.

• NSAIDs: Nettle may enhance the effect of anti-inflammatory drugs like diclofenac, and caution is advised. 

​

Dandelion - Biliary or Intestinal Obstruction avoid if you have an obstruction of the bile ducts or intestines.

Gallstones Use caution if you have gallstones, as dandelion can increase bile production and potentially cause a gallbladder attack or colic.

Allergies; Avoid use if you are allergic to ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or other plants in the Asteraceae family. 

Gastric Issues; Use with caution if you have hyperacid gastritis, peptic ulcers, or high gastric acidity, as the bitter compounds can cause stomach discomfort or heartburn.

Bleeding Disorders; Dandelion might slow blood clotting, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.

Kidney Issues; Due to its high potassium content and potential effect on oxalate release, people with kidney problems or kidney failure should use caution or avoid use.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding; There is insufficient reliable information on the safety of dandelion in medicinal amounts during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is best to avoid use in these cases.

Diabetes and Blood Pressure Disorders; Dandelion may affect blood sugar and blood pressure levels, so individuals with diabetes, high, or low blood pressure should avoid use or consult a doctor.

Medication Interactions

Diuretics (Water Pills); Dandelion is a natural diuretic and contains high levels of potassium. Taking it with prescription diuretics, especially potassium-sparing ones, can lead to excessively high potassium levels in the body or alter how quickly the body eliminates the medication.

• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants) Dandelion may slow blood clotting, so combining it with blood thinners (like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel) can increase the risk of bleeding.

• Antibiotics Dandelion may decrease the absorption and effectiveness of some antibiotics, such as quinolone antibiotics (e.g., Cipro, Levaquin).

• Lithium Dandelion's diuretic effect may reduce how well the body gets rid of lithium, which can lead to toxic levels of the drug in the body.

• Diabetes Medications Dandelion might lower blood sugar levels, so taking it with diabetes medications may cause blood sugar to drop too low.

• Heart and Blood Pressure Medications Dandelion can interact with certain heart and blood pressure drugs, affecting their efficacy. 

​

Turmeric - Gallstones or Bile Duct Obstruction: Turmeric can increase bile production, which may trigger gallbladder pain or exacerbate an obstruction.Bleeding disorders. 

Turmeric may slow blood clotting, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Diabetes: Turmeric may lower blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia if combined with anti-diabetic medications.

Iron Deficiency (Anemia): High doses of turmeric might prevent the absorption of iron, worsening the condition.

Kidney Stones: Turmeric is high in oxalates, which can increase the risk of kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals.

Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: Turmeric might have mild estrogen-like effects, so caution is advised for conditions like breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

​

Black Pepper - Gastrointestinal Issues: Black pepper can irritate the intestinal lining and may worsen symptoms in people with gastritis, stomach ulcers, acid reflux, heartburn, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

• Bleeding Disorders/Upcoming Surgery 

• Medication Interactions 

• Lithium: Black pepper may decrease how well the body releases lithium

• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): The potential anti-clotting effects of piperine may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding when combined with drugs like warfarin or aspirin.

• Medications Changed by the Liver (CYP3A4 substrates): Piperine can alter the metabolism of many drugs processed by the liver, including some for high cholesterol (atorvastatin) or heart conditions (cyclosporine).

• Diabetes Medications: Combining with anti-diabetes drugs might cause blood sugar to drop too low.

• Phenytoin, Propranolol, Theophylline, Rifampin: Black pepper might increase the absorption and effects of these specific medications.

​

St Mary's Thistle - Allergies:  Do not use if allergic to St. Mary's thistle or other plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, such as ragweed, daisies, marigolds, and chrysanthemums.

• Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: Use is discouraged for conditions like breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids, as the extract may act like estrogen.

• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: There is insufficient reliable information on safety during pregnancy and lactation; it is best to avoid use.

• Diabetes: It might lower blood sugar levels, requiring caution and close monitoring for those with diabetes or taking diabetes medications.

• Gallstones: Caution is advised for patients with gallstones due to the potential for it to move stones and cause pain.

•  

• Medication Interactions: It can interact with various medications, including blood thinners (like warfarin), statins, some HIV medications (like indinavir), certain chemotherapy drugs, and medications processed by liver enzymes (CYP450 system). 

Side effects - St. Mary's Thistle (Milk Thistle) is generally safe but can cause mild digestive issues like bloating, gas, nausea, or diarrhea, and rarely, skin rashes or headaches;  and may interact with medications (like blood thinners) or affect hormone-sensitive conditions.

​

Burdock - Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding, have allergies to certain plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family (e.g., ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums).

Burdock may slow blood clotting - avoid by those with bleeding disorders before/after surgery.

Medication Interactions - Avoid if taking medications for diabetes or blood clotting, or are scheduled for surgery.

​

Cleavers - Use with caution during pregnancy,  breastfeeding and for Diabetics as it's a powerful cleanser and diuretic.

Medication Interactions - Caution for those on blood thinners

​

Red Clover - Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Red clover has estrogen-like properties (phytoestrogens) that could disrupt hormone balances, making it possibly unsafe during pregnancy and lactation.Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: Due to its estrogenic activity, avoid red clover if you have conditions such as breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

Bleeding Disorders or Upcoming Surgery: Red clover might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Stop use at least two weeks before surgery.

Protein S Deficiency: There is concern that it may increase the risk of blood clots in individuals with this condition.

Medication Interactions

• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet drugs): Such as warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, and clopidogrel (Plavix), due to an increased risk of bleeding.

• Hormone Therapy/Contraceptives: Including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and oral contraceptives (birth control pills), as red clover might interfere with their effectiveness.

• Tamoxifen: Red clover may decrease the effectiveness of this breast cancer medication.

• Methotrexate: There have been case reports of potential toxicity when red clover is used concurrently with this medication for psoriasis or cancer.

• Medications changed by the liver: Red clover might affect how quickly the liver breaks down some drugs, such as certain antidepressants and cholesterol medications, potentially increasing their side effects. 

​

Devils Claw - Pregnancy & breastfeeding

Cautions -Stomach or intestinal ulcer, diabetes, high or low blood pressure, arrhythmiaSafety/efficacy not established for children

Medication Interactions

• Anticoagulants/Blood Thinners: Can increase the effect of drugs like warfarin, raising the risk of bleeding.

• Heart Medications: May interfere with drugs for arrhythmia (e.g., digoxin) or beta-blockers, affecting heart rate and rhythm.

• NSAIDs/Painkillers: Using with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin or ibuprofen may increase bleeding risk.

• Stomach Acid Reducers: Devil's claw can increase stomach acid, potentially reducing the effectiveness of H2-blockers (e.g., famotidine) and proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole).

• Diabetes Medications: Close monitoring is required as it may potentiate the effects of antidiabetic therapy. 

​

Globe Artichoke - Bile Duct Obstruction: Do not use if you have an obstruction, as globe artichoke increases bile flow and could worsen the condition.

Allergies: Avoid use if allergic to globe artichoke or related plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, daisies, marigolds, chrysanthemums).

Gallstones: Use with caution if you have gallstones, as the increased bile flow could pose a risk.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid use of medicinal extracts or supplements; consumption in typical food amounts is considered likely safe, but professional supervision is recommended.

Side effects of Globe Artichoke - Artichoke can cause side effects such as gas, upset stomach, and diarrhea.

​

Echinacea - Echinacea is contraindicated in individuals with autoimmune disorders, allergies to daisy-family plants, and certain other chronic systemic conditions.

Autoimmune conditions: Avoid if you have conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, as Echinacea might stimulate the immune system and worsen these conditions.

Allergies: Do not use if you are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, including ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies, due to the risk of allergic reactions.

Progressive systemic disorders: Contraindicated in cases of tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, HIV/AIDS, leukemias, and other diseases affecting white blood cells.Immunosuppression:

Avoid use if you are taking immunosuppressant medications (e.g., after an organ transplant or during chemotherapy), as echinacea's immune-stimulating effects may decrease the effectiveness of these drugs.

Medication interactions: Consult a healthcare provider before use if you are taking medications metabolized by the liver's CYP450 enzymes (e.g., some cancer drugs like etoposide, or caffeine), as echinacea may alter their effects.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding unless under the supervision of a practitioner.

​

Siberian Ginseng - The use of Eleuthro is generally safe.

• Medication Interactions:

  • Anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin).

  • Digoxin, a heart medication.

  • Diabetes medications.

  • Immunosuppressants.

  • Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone).

  • Lithium.

  • Sedatives and CNS depressants.

  • Medications changed by the liver (e.g., some antidepressants, statins).

​

Reishi - Pregnancy & Breastfeeding.

Surgery: Stop use at least 2 weeks before surgery due to increased bleeding risk.

Bleeding Disorders: May increase bleeding risk.

Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Can lower blood pressure further.

Autoimmune Diseases: May stimulate immune function, potentially worsening conditions like lupus, MS, or rheumatoid arthritis (consult doctor).

Liver/Kidney Conditions: Use with caution and medical guidance.

Medication Interactions

• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants/Antiplatelets): Increased bleeding risk (e.g., warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel).

• Blood Pressure Medications (Antihypertensives): May cause blood pressure to drop too low.

• Chemotherapy & Radiation: May interfere with treatment.

• Immunosuppressants: Reishi can stimulate the immune system, counteracting these drugs.

• Diabetes Medications: May affect blood sugar levels. 

Liquorice - Cardiovascular Conditions: Avoid if you have high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, or a history of irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

Kidney or Liver Disease: It is not recommended for people with kidney failure, chronic hepatitis, or liver cirrhosis.

Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: The estrogen-like effects of licorice mean it should be avoided if you have breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Do not consume medicinal doses during pregnancy as it may increase the risk of miscarriage or premature labor.

Electrolyte Imbalance: Avoid if you have pre-existing low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia) or conditions like hypertonia (a muscle condition caused by nerve problems).

Medication Interactions

Licorice can interact with numerous medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. 

• Blood Pressure Medications: Licorice can raise blood pressure, interfering with the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs.

• Diuretics (Water Pills): Taking licorice with diuretics can cause potassium levels to drop dangerously low.

• Blood Thinners: Licorice may decrease the effectiveness of anticoagulants like warfarin, increasing the risk of clotting.

• Corticosteroids: Licorice slows the breakdown of corticosteroids, which can increase their effects and side effects.

• Digoxin: Low potassium levels caused by licorice can increase the toxicity and side effects of digoxin (a heart medication). 

​

Yellow Dock; Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to its stimulant laxative (anthraquinone) content, yellow dock may cause a reflex action on the uterus and can be excreted in breast milk, potentially causing diarrhea in a nursing infant.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Conditions: avoided if you have conditions such as intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), spastic colon, or stomach/intestinal ulcers. 

Kidney Issues/Stones: The high oxalate content, especially in the raw leaves, can form crystals and potentially damage the kidneys.

Blood Clotting Problems:  or those taking blood-thinning medications (like warfarin) should consult a healthcare provider first.

Electrolyte Imbalance: Prolonged or excessive use can lead to the loss of potassium and other electrolytes. 

Medication Interactions

Digoxin (Lanoxin): Low potassium levels caused by yellow dock can increase the risk of side effects from digoxin.

Diuretics (Water Pills): Taking yellow dock with diuretic drugs can cause potassium levels to drop too low.

Warfarin (Coumadin): The laxative effect and potential for diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin and raise the risk of bleeding.

​

Graviola; Parkinson's Disease and Neurological Disorders: Chronic, high-dose consumption of graviola (especially from leaves and stems) has been linked to nerve damage and movement disorders similar to atypical Parkinsonism due to compounds called annonaceous acetogenins. It is strictly contraindicated for individuals with Parkinson's disease or other neurodegenerative conditions.

• Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): 

• Liver or Kidney Disease:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

Medication Interactions 

Antihypertensive drugs: Can potentiate the effects of blood pressure medications.

• Antidiabetic drugs: Can potentiate the effects of diabetes medications, potentially leading to hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar).

• Antidepressants: May interfere with MAO-inhibitor drugs and potentiate antidepressant effects.

• Anticoagulants : Use with caution, as interaction is possible.

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplements: CoQ10 may reduce the activity of graviola, as graviola inhibits an enzyme that CoQ10 is required for.

• Chemotherapy medications: Some molecules used in chemotherapy might interact with the acetogenins in graviola.

Other Cautions

• Long-Term Use: Continuous, long-term use is not recommended and should be limited to cycles (e.g., a few weeks on, followed by a break) to mitigate potential neurotoxic effects and avoid killing off friendly bacteria in the digestive tract.

• Dosage: Large doses may cause nausea or vomiting.

​

Chamomile; Chamomile is generally safe, but its use is contraindicated if you have allergies to certain plants, Ragweed, Chrysanthemums, Marigolds, Daisies and Astersare.

Pregnant or breastfeeding, have a hormone-sensitive condition, or are taking specific medications, particularly blood thinners and sedatives.

Chamomile contains coumarin, a natural blood-thinning compound, and may enhance the effects of other medications, leading to an increased risk of bruising or bleeding. It may also have additive effects when combined with sedatives. 

Medication Interactions

Anticoagulants/Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, apixaban)

• Antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin, NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen)

• Sedatives/CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, alcohol)

• Tamoxifen or estrogen-containing oral contraceptives/hormone replacement therapy (chamomile may decrease their effectiveness)

• Cyclosporine (an organ transplant rejection medication) 

​

Red Clover;  Hormone-sensitive conditions: Due to its estrogen-like effects, red clover may worsen conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

Bleeding disorders

Protein S deficiency: People with this condition have an increased risk of blood clots, and the estrogen-like activity of red clover could further increase this risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

Medication Interactions - Blood thinners (anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs):  warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, or clopidogrel (Plavix)

Hormone therapies: It may interfere with the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medications, or anti-estrogen medications like tamoxifen.

• Methotrexate

• Medications metabolized by the liver: Red clover might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down some medications (substrates of CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4), potentially increasing their side effects. 

• Surgery: You should stop taking red clover at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery because of the increased risk of bleeding.

Yarrow - Can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to the Asteraceae family.Yarrow should be used with caution during pregnancy and lactation.

Medication Interactions

• Medication Interactions: Yarrow can interact with several types of medications, including:

  • Anticoagulants/Antiplatelets (blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin)

  • Lithium (can increase lithium levels in the body)

  • Sedatives (can increase drowsiness/sleepiness)

  • Medications for high blood pressure (can enhance their effect)

  • Antacids and stomach acid reducers (yarrow may reduce their effectiveness)

• Photosensitivity: Long-term or high-dose use may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, leading to a rash or sunburn. 

​

Californian Poppy - Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, potential uterine effects.

Medication Interactions: Do not combine with alcohol or medications that cause drowsiness or have sedative/analgesic properties, as this can increase their effects. This includes central nervous system (CNS) depressants, sedatives, anxiolytics (like benzodiazepines), and some antidepressants (SSRIs or MAO inhibitors).

Surgery: Discontinue use at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery, as it may interact with anesthesia and other medications used during and after the procedure.

Operating Machinery: Exercise caution if driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the herb affects you, as it may cause drowsiness or dizziness.

Children: Use with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional in young children.

Pre-existing conditions: Individuals with low blood pressure or those on blood pressure medications should use cautiously and monitor their blood pressure closely. 

​

Ginkgo - Ginkgo is contraindicated in people with bleeding disorders, a history of seizures/epilepsy, or a known allergy to the plant.

 It is also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or before any scheduled surgery. 

Medication Interactions - Ginkgo interacts with many medications, increasing the risk of serious side effects or reducing the effectiveness of other drugs. Key interactions include: 

• Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Drugs: Ginkgo can slow blood clotting, increasing the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin) or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix).

• Anti-Seizure Medications: Ginkgo may lower the seizure threshold, making seizures more likely and potentially reducing the effectiveness of anti-seizure medications.

• Antidepressants: Taking ginkgo with certain antidepressants (like SSRIs or SNRIs) may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

• Diabetes Medications: Ginkgo can affect blood sugar levels and may interfere with the management of diabetes.

• NSAIDs: The risk of bleeding is increased if ginkgo is combined with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve).

• Other Medications: Ginkgo can interact with numerous other drugs, including nifedipine, omeprazole, alprazolam, some statins, and certain HIV medications.

Side Effects - May cause  Heart palpitations—rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat in sensitive individuals.

​

Peppermint - Peppermint is usually considered safe in Herbal tea form. 

 Medication Interactions - Peppermint can inhibit liver enzymes (CYP450) responsible for breaking down many medications, which may lead to increased drug levels in the bloodstream.

Acid-reducing medications Antacids, H2 blockers (like famotidine), and proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole) should not be taken within two hours of enteric-coated peppermint capsules, as they can cause the capsule to dissolve too soon.Cyclosporine Peppermint may slow the breakdown of this immunosuppressant drug, increasing its effects and side effects

High blood pressure medications, Peppermint may lower blood pressure, potentially making antihypertensive drugs too strong.

Statins Peppermint oil may elevate serum levels of drugs like simvastatin.

​

​

As with any product it is advisable to conduct your own research and exploration into the herbals that you intend to consume. If you are unsure, please get in touch and while we do not offer consultations for conditions we are happy to advise whether our product is safe and suitable for your condition. 

All queries may be sent to the following email;

bluedeerportal@gmail.com

​

​

With love

The Blue Deer Team

                                   xxx

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Herb Safety and Drug Interactions.