Alchemilla - Plan B (Levonorgestrel) Interaction
Herbal: Alchemilla
Also Known As: Alchemilla xanthochlora, Alchemilla vulgaris, Alquimila, Alquimilla, Bear's Foot, Frauenmantel, Lady's Mantle, Leontopodium, Lion's Foot, Marienmantel, Nine Hooks, Silerkraut, Stellaria
Drug: Levonorgestrel
Brand names:
Plan B, Mirena, Levonelle One Step, Levonelle 1500, Norgeston, Skyla, Liletta, Kyleena
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jan 28, 2024
Interaction Details
Levonorgestrel is classified as belonging to the following category: Topical Drugs
While no side effects have been reported from orally using Alchemilla, a clinical study titled "Treatment of Aphthous Stomatitis with Topical Alchemilla vulgaris in Glycerine," published in Clinical Drug Investigation (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17163290/), found that local mouth irritation occurred after applying a commercial product containing 3% alchemilla extract and glycerol (Aphtarine, Laboratoires Biosphere). Aphtarine was non-irritating in 68.2% of cases within 2-3 days, in 18.8% of cases within 4-7 days, and in 13.6% of cases with moderate irritation. Theoretically, combining Alchemilla with other potentially irritating topical products could increase the risk of local irritation and discomfort. The drug in this drug interaction monograph is available in a topical dosage form. There is no interaction expected from the oral dosage form of the drug.
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
Alchemilla Overview
Alchemilla, a perennial herb found throughout Europe, is traditionally used orally for gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, and as a diuretic. Its above-ground parts are also used topically for their astringent properties. Alchemilla contains 6-16% tannins (ellagic and gallic acids) and 2.22% flavonoids (quercetin, luteolin, and proanthocyanidins).
Studies show that alchemilla's aqueous extracts have antioxidant effects, countering lipid peroxidation and scavenging superoxide anions. In dermatology, alchemilla extracts inhibit proteolytic enzymes and promote fibroblast migration, potentially aiding in wound healing. A small human study suggests that alchemilla extract in gels improves skin moisturization, particularly when skin is pre-treated with drying agents like sodium laurel sulfate, although the exact mechanism is unclear.
Most dietary supplements that contain Alchemilla refer to it solely as 'Lady's Mantle'.
Levonorgestrel Overview
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Levonorgestrel is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse (sex without any method of birth control or with a birth control method that failed or was not used properly [e.g., a condom that slipped or broke or birth control pills that were not taken as scheduled]). Levonorgestrel should not be used to prevent pregnancy on a regular basis. This medication is to be used as an emergency contraceptive or backup in case regular birth control fails or is used incorrectly. Levonorgestrel is in a class of medications called progestins. It works by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary or preventing fertilization of the egg by sperm (male reproductive cells). It also may work by changing the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent development of a pregnancy. Levonorgestrel may prevent pregnancy, but it will not prevent the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]) and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Alchemilla - More Interactions
Alchemilla interacts with 185 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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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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