Angelica Archangelica - Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) Interaction
Herbal: Angelica Archangelica
Also Known As: American Angelica, Angelicae Fructus, Angelicae Herba, Angelicae Radix, Angel's Wort, Archangel, Bai Zhi, Canda, Dang Gui (Angelica root), Du Huo, European Angelica, Garden Angelica, Root of the Holy Ghost, Wild Angelica, Wild Parsnip
Drug: Diphenhydramine
Brand names:
Benadryl, Dormin, Allerdryl, Valdrene, Sleep-Ettes D, Simply Sleep, Sominex, Diphenhydramine, Compoz, Sleep Aid, Benadryl cream, Benadryl spray, Dermamycin cream, Ziradryl, Nytol
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Feb 10, 2024
Interaction Details
Diphenhydramine is classified as belonging to the following category: Photosensitizing Drugs
Angelica archangelica, whether ingested or applied to the skin, has the potential to induce photosensitivity reactions. It is advised that patients using Angelica archangelica in any form should avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. When combined with photosensitizing drugs like doxycycline, there is an elevated risk of photosensitivity reactions. Patients should be cautioned to take appropriate sun protection measures and monitor for any signs of skin irritation or photosensitivity when using these substances concomitantly. (Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10630112/)
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
Angelica Archangelica Overview
Angelica archangelica, a perennial herb in the Apiaceae/Umbelliferae family, is characterized by its tall stature, typically reaching heights between 50-250 cm, and large, abundant leaves. Originating from the coastal regions of the North and Baltic Seas, this herb, also known as wild parsnip, has a notable history of use in culinary practices, traditional Chinese medicine, and as a flavoring agent in beverages and liqueurs. With its composition rich in essential oils, phytosterols, caffeic acid derivatives, and flavonoids, along with furanocoumarin compounds such as angelicin and imperatorin, Angelica archangelica is associated with various potential health benefits. These include antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-fungal, anti-hypertensive, anxiolytic, and cognitive effects. Further research is required to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action and efficacy in treating different conditions. Angelica archangelica has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the United States.
Diphenhydramine Overview
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Diphenhydramine is used to relieve red, irritated, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; and runny nose caused by hay fever, allergies, or the common cold. Diphenhydramine is also used to relieve cough caused by minor throat or airway irritation. Diphenhydramine is also used to prevent and treat motion sickness, and to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep). Diphenhydramine is also used to control abnormal movements in people who have early stage parkinsonian syndrome (a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance) or who are experiencing movement problems as a side effect of a medication.
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Diphenhydramine will relieve the symptoms of these conditions but will not treat the cause of the symptoms or speed recovery. Diphenhydramine should not be used to cause sleepiness in children. Diphenhydramine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Angelica Archangelica - More Interactions
Angelica Archangelica interacts with 333 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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