Peppermint - Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine) Interaction
Herbal: Peppermint
Also Known As: Mentha x piperita, Black Peppermint, Brandy Mint, Extract of Peppermint, Field Mint, Herba Menthae, Huile de Menthe Poivrée, Lamb Mint, M. Balsamea Willd Extract, Menta Pepperita, Menta Piperita, Mentha Balsamea, Mentha Oil, Mentha Piperita Extract, Mentha Piperita Oil
Drug: Hydroxychloroquine
Brand names:
Plaquenil
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Hydroxychloroquine and Peppermint. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
Peppermint and peppermint oil have a number of theoretical interactions due to several lab and animal studies suggesting it can inhibit a variety of CYP metabolizing enzymes in the liver, including:
- CYP2C9
- CYP3A4
- CYP2C19
- CYP1A2
However, many of these interactions have not been seen in humans, and the likelihood of them being clinically significant is low. They are nevertheless important to be aware of.
There is no known interaction between peppermint and the drug in question here. They are considered safe to combine.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDPeppermint Overview
Peppermint is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its fragrant, minty aroma and distinctive, spear-shaped leaves.
Peppermint is commonly used in cooking and aromatherapy, as well as in a variety of personal care products. It has a refreshing, cool, and slightly sweet flavor.
In traditional medicine, peppermint is believed to have a number of health benefits. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, and it is sometimes used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive problems, respiratory infections, and skin disorders.
Peppermint is also commonly used as a natural treatment for colds and flu due to its expectorant properties.
Some peppermint supplements are marketed specifically towards those suffering from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) as evidence shows it can help reduce symptoms in some individuals.
Hydroxychloroquine Overview
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Hydroxychloroquine is used to prevent and treat acute attacks of malaria in adults and children weighing more than 31 kg (68 lbs). It is also used to treat discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE; a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin) or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus; an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy parts of the body such as joints, skin, blood vessels, and organs) and rheumatoid arthritis. Hydroxychloroquine is in a class of drugs called antimalarials and is also an antirheumatic drug. It works by killing the organisms that cause malaria. Hydroxychloroquine may work to treat rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus by decreasing the activity of the immune system.
Peppermint - More Interactions
Peppermint interacts with 774 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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