Arnica - Plavix (Clopidogrel) Interaction
Herbal: Arnica
Also Known As: American Arnica, Arctic Arnica, Arnica Flos, Arnica Flower, Arnikablüten, Bergwohlverleih, European Arnica, Foothill Arnica, Heart-Leaf Arnica, Hillside Arnica, Kraftwurz, Leopard's Bane, Mountain Arnica, Mountain Snuff, Mountain Tobacco, North American Meadow Arnica, Tw
Drug: Clopidogrel
Brand names:
Plavix
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 20, 2025
Interaction Details
Clopidogrel is classified as belonging to the following category: Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, arnica might have additive effects with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs. Homeopathic arnica preparations are unlikely to have this interaction.
In vitro evidence shows that sesquiterpene lactones in arnica flowers can decrease platelet aggregation. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
UnlikelyInteraction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.
References
- Schroder H, Losche W, Strobach H, et al. Helenalin and 11 alpha, 13-dihydrohelenalin, two constituents from Arnica montana L., inhibit human platelet function via thiol-dependent pathways. Thromb Res 1990;57:839-45.
Arnica Overview
Arnica is a plant that is native to Europe and North America and is part of the daisy family. It is known for its yellow, daisy-like flowers and has been traditionally used in homeopathic medicine to help decrease pain, swelling, and bruising. It has also been used in topical preparations to help reduce the pain from osteoarthritis. Arnica preparations are typically standardized according to the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States. In terms of drug interactions, it is important to note that in theory, arnica might have additive effects with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs but homeopathic arnica preparations are unlikely to have this interaction due to the extremely low amounts used.
Clopidogrel Overview
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Clopidogrel is used alone or with aspirin to prevent serious or life-threatening problems with the heart and blood vessels in people who have had a stroke, heart attack, or severe chest pain. This includes people who have percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI; angioplasty; a type of heart surgery) that may involve inserting coronary stents (metal tubes surgically placed in clogged blood vessels to improve blood flow) or who have coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG; a type of heart surgery). Clopidogrel is also used to prevent serious or life-threatening problems with the heart and blood vessels in people who have peripheral arterial disease (poor circulation in the blood vessels that supply blood to the legs). Clopidogrel is in a class of medications called antiplatelet medications. It works by preventing platelets (a type of blood cell) from collecting and forming clots that may cause a heart attack or stroke.
Arnica - More Interactions
Arnica interacts with 120 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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