Herb & supplement monograph

Asarabacca Drug Interactions, Uses, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS ·Updated July 2026

What is this page for?

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Asarabacca 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

Check Asarabacca against your medication

Add one medication

✓ Supplement

Asarabacca

1 Your medication

Start typing any prescription or over-the-counter drug name.

Reviewed by licensed pharmacists Sourced from Natural Medicines

On this page

Asarabacca Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the risk from Asarabacca drug interactions is serious, because every recorded interaction is rated major and centers on potential kidney harm. All of the listed interactions carry a major severity rating, and they trace back to one shared concern rather than many separate problems.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The combinations that deserve the most care involve medications that can strain or damage the kidneys, a broad group covering many common prescription drugs. Asarabacca is often contaminated with aristolochic acid, a compound the FDA considers unsafe because it can injure the kidneys, and products containing it are treated as adulterated. Adding asarabacca to any medicine that already carries kidney risk could compound that harm, which is why every listed interaction is graded major.

What the rest of the list means

The long list reflects one shared safety issue, kidney health, rather than hundreds of unrelated problems. Direct human proof for each specific drug pairing is limited, and the grading rests largely on what is known about aristolochic acid itself. Even so, because the potential harm is serious kidney damage, we do not view these warnings as merely theoretical.

Check your medications against Asarabacca

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Asarabacca

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

355 major interactions. These combinations can be clinically significant — best avoided, or used only with close professional supervision. Always check with your pharmacist before combining them with Asarabacca.

Don’t want to scroll the list? Just ask.

Tell us the medications you take and we’ll check each one against Asarabacca using our pharmacist-reviewed interaction data.

AI summaries are generated from our Asarabacca interaction data for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI

2,830 drugs

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 Asarabacca 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 Asarabacca affects

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

All 1 drug category Asarabacca interacts with

Nephrotoxic Drugs

Asarabacca, a herbaceous plant, is often contaminated with aristolochic acid, a compound known for its nephrotoxic effects. Aristolochic acid can damage the kidneys and is deemed unsafe by the FDA, leading to the classification of products containing it as adulterated. When considering medications that may also pose a risk of kidney damage, caution is advised when combining them with asarabacca due to potential additive nephrotoxicity. It is advisable to consult healthcare professionals before using asarabacca alongside nephrotoxic drugs to minimize the risk of adverse effects on kidney function.

Likelihood Possible Evidence C

Monograph

Asarabacca: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS · Reviewed July 2026 ·

The bottom line

Asarabacca is a European woodland plant traditionally used to clear the nose, cause sweating, or trigger vomiting, but it is rarely used today. It belongs to a plant family that often contains aristolochic acid, a substance the FDA considers unsafe because it can cause serious kidney damage and cancer, so we do not recommend using it.

Scientific name: Asarum europaeum
Family: Aristolochiaceae
Part used: Rhizome (root) and leaves
Common forms: Dried herb, powder, tincture, traditional snuff

People commonly use it for

Sinus and nasal congestion
Coughs and bronchial complaints
Inducing sweating
Inducing vomiting (emetic)
Digestive upset

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

Safety at a glance

OverallBest avoided

It is in a plant family linked to toxic aristolochic acid, which can harm the kidneys and cause cancer.

PregnancyLikely Unsafe

When used orally. Asarabacca might act as a menstrual or uterine stimulant; contraindicated.

Read the full pregnancy detail

BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; 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.

Jump to a section

Overview

Asarabacca (Asarum europaeum), also called European wild ginger or hazelwort, is a low-growing perennial herb found in the shady woodlands of Europe and parts of Asia. It has glossy, heart-shaped leaves and small, bell-shaped, brownish-purple flowers that often hide beneath the foliage near the ground.

The rhizome (underground stem) and leaves have a strong, spicy, ginger-like aroma, which is where the name 'wild ginger' comes from. In traditional European folk medicine, the plant was used to clear the nose, trigger sweating, cause vomiting, and treat coughs. Today its use is very limited because of serious safety concerns.

Uses & effectiveness

People have traditionally used Asarabacca as a snuff to relieve nasal and sinus congestion, as an expectorant for coughs and chest complaints, to bring on sweating during fevers, and as an emetic to cause vomiting. It was also used at times for digestive complaints.

There is very little reliable human research to support any of these uses. Most of what is known comes from old traditional reports and a small number of laboratory or animal studies. Because of this, the evidence for Asarabacca being effective for any condition is considered insufficient. Given the toxicity concerns, the potential risks clearly outweigh any unproven benefits.

How it works

The rhizome contains aromatic compounds such as phenylpropanoids, trans-isoasarone, and trans-isomethyleugenol. In laboratory and animal studies, some of these compounds have shown local anesthetic, antispasmodic (muscle-relaxing), and emetic (vomit-inducing) effects, and may affect the airways.

It is important to understand that these mechanisms are mostly based on test-tube and animal research, not on solid human studies. More concerning, plants in the Aristolochiaceae family — including Asarabacca and products that may be mixed with related plants — can contain aristolochic acid, a substance known to damage the kidneys and cause cancer.

Safety & precautions

We do not recommend using Asarabacca. It belongs to the same plant family as birthwort (Aristolochia), and products may contain or be contaminated with aristolochic acid. The U.S. FDA considers all products containing aristolochic acid to be unsafe and adulterated because this compound can cause irreversible kidney failure and is linked to cancer of the urinary tract.

Asarabacca can also be irritating and may cause strong vomiting. Pregnant women should not use it, as it may stimulate the uterus and contains toxic compounds. Breastfeeding women should also avoid it because its safety has not been studied and harmful substances could reach the baby. People with kidney problems, and children, should especially stay away from it. Always talk to a pharmacist or doctor before using any herbal product.

Side effects

Asarabacca can cause nausea and vomiting (in fact, it was traditionally used to make people vomit), as well as irritation of the mouth, nose, throat, and stomach. Larger amounts can cause more severe digestive upset.

The most serious concern is kidney damage and cancer risk from aristolochic acid, which can occur even after limited use and may not show symptoms until significant harm has been done. Because of these risks, this herb should not be taken.

Asarabacca: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Orally, asarabacca seems to be well tolerated when used appropriately. However, large doses may cause nausea and vomiting. Severe poisoning has also been reported. Symptoms of poisoning include burning of tongue, gastroenteritis, diarrhea, skin rashes, and partial paralysis. Also, asarabacca is commonly contaminated with aristolochic acid, which is nephrotoxic and carcinogenic. The FDA considers all products containing aristolochic acid to be unsafe and adulterated.

McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
Jaspersen-Schib R, Theus L, Guirguis-Oeschger M, et al. [Serious plant poisonings in Switzerland 1966-1994. Case analysis from the Swiss Toxicology Information Center]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1996;126:1085-98.
Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
Lewis CJ, Alpert S. Letter to health care professionals -- FDA concerned about botanical products, including dietary supplements, containing aristolochic acid. Office of Nutritional Products, Labeling, Dietary Supplements. Center for Food Safety and Appli

Reports by condition

Diarrhea Gastrointestinal

Orally, large doses of asarabacca may cause nausea and vomiting. Severe poisoning has also been reported. Symptoms of poisoning include burning of tongue, gastroenteritis, and diarrhea.

McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
Jaspersen-Schib R, Theus L, Guirguis-Oeschger M, et al. [Serious plant poisonings in Switzerland 1966-1994. Case analysis from the Swiss Toxicology Information Center]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1996;126:1085-98.
Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.

Poisoning Neurologic/CNS

Orally, symptoms of asarabacca poisoning include partial paralysis.

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.

Poisoning Dermatologic

Orally, symptoms of asarabacca poisoning include skin rashes.

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.

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 safe or standardized dose for Asarabacca, and because of its toxicity, no dose can be recommended. Older herbal texts list traditional amounts for use as a snuff or emetic, but these do not account for the serious risks now understood.

We advise not using this herb at all. If you come across a product containing it, do not take it, and ask a pharmacist or doctor about safer alternatives for your symptoms.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Asarabacca & Pregnancy

Likely Unsafe

When used orally. Asarabacca might act as a menstrual or uterine stimulant; contraindicated.

McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.

Asarabacca & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 4 references that drive our Asarabacca 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.

McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
Jaspersen-Schib R, Theus L, Guirguis-Oeschger M, et al. [Serious plant poisonings in Switzerland 1966-1994. Case analysis from the Swiss Toxicology Information Center]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1996;126:1085-98.
Lewis CJ, Alpert S. Letter to health care professionals -- FDA concerned about botanical products, including dietary supplements, containing aristolochic acid. Office of Nutritional Products, Labeling, Dietary Supplements. Center for Food Safety and Appli

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.

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Asarabacca

2 brands in our database make a supplement containing Asarabacca.

Hawaii Pharm 4,726 products Princess Lifestyle 23 products

Product directory

Supplement products with Asarabacca

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

Super S.G. by Princess Lifestyle Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions Wild Ginger by Hawaii Pharm Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce(s) · 120 mL Off market View ingredients & interactions

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Asarabacca: Common Questions

Does Asarabacca interact with prescription medications?

Yes. We list 355 medications with a known interaction with Asarabacca, including 355 rated major. Use the checker above to see how Asarabacca interacts with a specific drug.

How are Asarabacca 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 Asarabacca 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 Asarabacca 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 Asarabacca used for?

Traditionally it was used to clear nasal congestion (often as a snuff), as an expectorant for coughs, to cause sweating during fevers, and to trigger vomiting. There is little solid evidence that it works for any of these.

Is Asarabacca safe to take?

No, we do not consider it safe. It can cause vomiting and irritation, and it belongs to a plant family that may contain aristolochic acid, which can cause serious kidney damage and cancer.

Is European wild ginger the same as the culinary ginger I cook with?

No. Despite the name, Asarabacca (European wild ginger) is a completely different plant from the edible ginger (Zingiber officinale) used in cooking, and it should not be eaten.

Can I use Asarabacca while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. It should be avoided during pregnancy because it may affect the uterus and contains toxic compounds, and it should also be avoided while breastfeeding since its safety has not been established.

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

Keep exploring

Products that contain Asarabacca

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

Super S.G. by Princess Lifestyle

See all 2 products with Asarabacca →

Where next

Supplement interaction checkerCheck any supplement or product against your medications Drug–drug interactionsCheck two or more of your medications against each other Browse medications A–ZEvery drug we’ve checked against herbs & supplements NDC & pricing lookupFind a drug’s NDCs, packaging and costs Ask a pharmacistFree, personal answer from our licensed team

Have a question about Asarabacca?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist