Herb & supplement monograph

Aletris Drug Interactions, Uses, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Aletris interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Aletris is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Aletris is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Aletris Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Aletris drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and every one of them is theoretical, graded only as possible and not confirmed in human studies.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The combination that deserves the most attention is Aletris with estrogens, such as those in hormone therapy or birth control. Aletris may have estrogen-like activity, so taking the two together could, in theory, add to estrogen-related side effects. The other concerns involve acid-reducing medicines, including antacids, H2-blockers like famotidine, and proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole. Because Aletris has been reported to increase stomach acid, it might work against these medicines, though this would likely mean reduced heartburn relief rather than harm.

What the rest of the list means

Although the full list covers a fair number of medications, that does not mean each combination is known to cause problems. Nearly all of these entries come from the same two theoretical concerns, a possible estrogen-like effect and a possible increase in stomach acid. None of these predicted effects has been shown to cause meaningful changes in people.

Check your medications against Aletris

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Aletris interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Aletris

77 medications have a known interaction with Aletris, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated EstrogensDuavee› Conjugated EstrogensCenestin, Enjuvia, Premarin, Premarin Vaginal Cream› Conjugated Estrogens, Medroxyprogesterone AcetatePremplus, Prempro› Conjugated Estrogens, MeprobamatePMB 200, PMB 400› Conjugated Estrogens, MethyltestosteronePremarin with Methyltestosterone› Cyproterone Acetate, Ethinyl EstradiolDiane-35, Dianette› Desogestrel, Ethinyl EstradiolDesogen, Marvelon, Marvelon 21, Marvelon 28, Mircette, Ortho-Cept +2 more› Drospirenone, EstetrolNextstellis› Drospirenone, Ethinyl EstradiolAngeliq, Gianvi, Yasmin› Esterified EstrogensEstratab, Menest› Esterified Estrogens, MethyltestosteroneEstratest› EstradiolDivigel, Elestrin, Estrace, Estraderm, Estring, Evamist +6 more› Estradiol, MedroxyprogesteroneDivitren› Estradiol, Norethindrone AcetateActivella› Estradiol, NorgestimateOrtho-Prefest› Estradiol, ProgesteroneBijuvanda› EstrogenEstrogen› EstroneOrtho-Est› EstropipateOgen, Ortho EST› Ethiny Estradiol, LevonorgestrelLogynon, Microgynon 30 ED› Ethinyl EstradiolEstinyl› Ethinyl Estradiol, DesogestrelApri, Cesia, Cyclessa, Gedarel, Kariva, Linessa +4 more› Ethinyl Estradiol, DrospirenoneYaz› Ethinyl Estradiol, Ethynodiol DiacetateDemulen 1/35, Demulen 1/50, Demulen Compack, Kelnor 1/35, Zovia, Zovia 1/35 +1 more› Ethinyl Estradiol, LevonorgestrelAlesse, Alesse 21, Alesse 28, Aviane, Enpresse, Jolessa +18 more› Ethinyl Estradiol, NorethindroneAranelle, Brevicon, Brevicon .5/35 21 day, Brevicon .5/35 28 day, Brevicon 1/35 21 day, Brevicon 1/35 28 day +50 more› Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone, Ferrous FumarateEstrostep Fe, Femcon FE, Junel Fe 1.5/30, Loestrin Fe, Loestrin Fe 1.5/30, Loestrin Fe 1/20 +3 more› Ethinyl Estradiol, NorgestimateCilest, Mononessa, Ortho Tri-Cyclen 28, Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo, Ortho Tri-Cylcen, Ortho-Cyclen +5 more› Ethinyl Estradiol, NorgestrelCryselle, Lo/Ovral, Low-Ogestrel, Ogestrel 0.5/50, Ovral› Ethinyl Estradiol, LevonogestrelLybrel›
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction 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
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Aletris combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Aletris affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Aletris is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 4 drug categories Aletris interacts with
EstrogensAntacidsH2-blockersProton Pump Inhibitors (ppis)
Estrogens

Aletris might have estrogenic effects. Theoretically, use of aletris with estrogens might increase the risk for additive adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antacids

Theoretically, due to reports that aletris increases stomach acid, aletris might decrease the effectiveness of antacids.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
H2-Blockers

Theoretically, due to reports that aletris increases stomach acid, aletris might decrease the effectiveness of H2-blockers. The H2 blockers include cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), nizatidine (Axid), and famotidine (Pepcid).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Proton Pump Inhibitors (Ppis)

Theoretically, due to reports that aletris increases stomach acid, aletris might decrease the effectiveness of PPIs. PPIs include omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), rabeprazole (Aciphex), pantoprazole (Protonix), and esomeprazole (Nexium).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Aletris: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Aletris (true unicorn root or colic root) is a North American herb traditionally used for menstrual problems and digestive complaints, but there is little to no modern human research to show it works. Because safety is poorly studied, it should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and anyone considering it should first talk with a pharmacist or doctor.

Aletris
Scientific name
Aletris farinosa
Family
Nartheciaceae
Part used
Root and rhizome
Common forms
Dried root, tincture, liquid extract, capsules, tea
People commonly use it for
  • Menstrual complaints
  • Digestive upset and colic
  • Loss of appetite
  • Female reproductive tonic
  • Rheumatic discomfort

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Limited modern safety data; large or fresh doses may cause stomach upset.

PregnancyPossibly Unsafe

When used orally due to the possibility that aletris contains components that cause estrogenic activity and oxytocin (Pitocin) antagonism; avoid using...

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingPossibly Unsafe

When used orally due to the possibility that aletris contains components that cause estrogenic activity and oxytocin (Pitocin) antagonism; avoid using...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

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Overview

Aletris (Aletris farinosa) is a perennial herb native to eastern North America. It is also called true unicorn root, colic root, blazing star, and star grass. The plant has a slender stem, narrow grass-like leaves at its base, and small white flowers that grow in a spike at the top.

The part used in herbal products is the root and rhizome (the underground stem). It has a long history in traditional and folk medicine, where it was used mainly for women's menstrual problems and for digestive complaints such as colic and poor appetite. Today it is sometimes sold as a dried root, tincture, or capsule, often in combination with other herbs.

Uses & effectiveness

People have traditionally used Aletris for menstrual and reproductive complaints, stomach cramps (colic), bloating, gas, and loss of appetite. Some older herbal sources also mention it as a general "tonic" for women.

The scientific evidence is very weak. There are no good-quality human studies showing that Aletris works for any of these uses. Most of what is known comes from traditional use and a small amount of laboratory work on its chemical compounds. Because of this, it is not possible to say that Aletris is effective for any health condition. If you are dealing with menstrual or digestive problems, it is better to use treatments with stronger evidence and to have the cause checked by a healthcare professional.

How it works

The root contains plant compounds including steroidal saponins and a sesterterpene compound. Some of these constituents have been suggested in laboratory research to have mild estrogen-like (estrogenic) activity, which is one reason the herb was historically used for menstrual complaints.

It is important to understand that these proposed mechanisms are based mostly on test-tube and chemical studies, not on well-designed human trials. We do not have clear evidence about how Aletris behaves in the human body or at what dose any effect might occur.

Safety & precautions

The safety of Aletris has not been well studied in modern research. Traditional sources note that fresh or large amounts of the root can irritate the stomach and may cause nausea, vomiting, or dizziness.

Because some of its compounds are thought to act like hormones and to possibly affect the uterus, women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should avoid it. People with hormone-sensitive conditions should be cautious and speak with a doctor first. Anyone with an ongoing medical condition, or who takes regular medications, should check with a pharmacist or physician before trying Aletris.

Side effects

Reported and traditional side effects, mostly linked to larger or fresh doses, include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, cramping, and dizziness. Some sources describe a sense of vertigo or feeling "drugged" with higher amounts.

Because the herb is not well studied, the full range of possible side effects is unknown. Stop using it and seek medical care if you have a strong reaction such as severe vomiting, an allergic rash, swelling, or trouble breathing.

Aletris: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Aletris from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

There is currently a limited amount of information available about the adverse effects of aletris. Orally, aletris has been reported to cause colic, stupefaction, and vertigo.

  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Reports by condition
Colic Gastrointestinal

Orally, small doses of aletris have been reported to cause colic.

  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Vertigo Neurologic/CNS

Orally, small doses of aletris have been reported to cause stupefaction and vertigo.

  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no established, scientifically supported dose for Aletris. Traditional dosing has varied widely depending on the form (dried root, tea, or tincture) and is not based on modern research.

If you choose to use a product, follow the directions on the label and do not exceed them. Because quality and strength can vary between brands, and because of the safety concerns above, it is best to talk with a pharmacist or doctor before starting Aletris.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Aletris & Pregnancy

Possibly Unsafe

When used orally due to the possibility that aletris contains components that cause estrogenic activity and oxytocin (Pitocin) antagonism; avoid using.

  1. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  2. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.

Aletris & Breastfeeding

Possibly Unsafe

When used orally due to the possibility that aletris contains components that cause estrogenic activity and oxytocin (Pitocin) antagonism; avoid using.

  1. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  2. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 4 references that drive our Aletris monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  2. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  3. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  4. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

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

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Aletris

2 brands in our database make a supplement containing Aletris.

Product directory

Supplement products with Aletris

2 products in our database contain Aletris. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Aletris: Common Questions

Does Aletris interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 77 medications with a known interaction with Aletris. Use the checker above to see how Aletris interacts with a specific drug.
How are Aletris interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Aletris with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Aletris interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Aletris used for?
It has traditionally been used for menstrual complaints, digestive upset such as colic, gas, and poor appetite. These are folk uses, and there is no strong scientific proof that it works for any of them.
Is Aletris safe to take?
Its safety has not been well studied. Larger or fresh doses may cause nausea, vomiting, or dizziness, so use caution and check with a pharmacist or doctor first.
Can I take Aletris while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. It may have hormone-like and uterine effects and lacks safety data, so it should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Is Aletris the same as Blazing Star or False Unicorn?
Aletris is sometimes called blazing star or true unicorn root, but it is a different plant from false unicorn (Chamaelirium luteum). The names are easily confused, so check the Latin name on the label.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Aletris

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Aletris — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 2 products with Aletris →
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