Herb & supplement monograph

Cabbage Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Cabbage 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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Cabbage 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 Cabbage drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and even the best-studied ones showed only modest changes in drug levels.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The interaction that deserves the most respect involves warfarin. Cabbage contains vitamin K, and eating large amounts could work against this blood thinner, where small changes matter. Human studies also show that regular cabbage intake can lower levels of acetaminophen and oxazepam somewhat, likely because cabbage speeds up a pathway the body uses to clear them, though the drops seen were small. For people on diabetes medications, cabbage might in theory add to blood sugar lowering, but this comes from animal and lab research only.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of medications looks worrying, but most entries come from one theory: cabbage may stimulate pathways the body uses to break down and clear many drugs. Much of this is based on animal or lab research, and where the effect has been measured in people, the changes were modest and unlikely to matter for most medicines.

Check your medications against Cabbage

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Cabbage

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

2,830 drugs
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
Moderate Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.

Read the full Cabbage + Acarbose interaction Acarbose drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen interaction Acetaminophen drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineNorel Plus
Moderate Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PseudoephedrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS Liquid Gels, Children's Tylenol Cold, Codimal, Comtrex, Extra Strength Tylenol Allergy Sinus, Lorsin +3 more
Moderate Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, ChlorzoxazoneAcetazone Forte, Extra Strength Tylenol Aches & Strains, Parafon Forte
Moderate Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.

Read the full Cabbage + Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone interaction
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 Cabbage 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 Cabbage affects

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

All 6 drug categories Cabbage interacts with
Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others)Antidiabetes DrugsCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) SubstratesGlucuronidated DrugsOxazepam (serax)Warfarin (coumadin)
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Others)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of acetaminophen.
A small clinical study shows that daily consumption of cabbage and Brussels sprout decreases acetaminophen levels by as much as 16%, with some evidence suggesting that this effect is due to increased elimination through glucuronide conjugation.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Animal and in vivo research suggests that cabbage might have hypoglycemic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Some animal research suggests that cabbage or its constituent indole-3-carbinol might increase drug metabolism and elimination by stimulating CYP1A2 activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, cabbage might increase clearance and decrease the effects of drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.
A small clinical study shows that daily consumption of cabbage and Brussels sprout decreases levels of some drugs metabolized through glucuronide conjugation.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Oxazepam (Serax)

Cabbage might increase clearance and reduce the effects of oxazepam.
A small clinical study shows that daily consumption of cabbage and brussels sprout decreases oxazepam levels by as much as 17%, with some evidence suggesting that this effect is due to increased elimination through glucuronide conjugation.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, cabbage might decrease the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
Cabbage contains vitamin K. If consumed in large quantities, cabbage might decrease the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Cabbage: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Cabbage is a nutritious, low-calorie vegetable that is safe to eat as food and is sometimes applied to the skin as a leaf wrap for breast engorgement or sore joints. Most medicinal claims are based on tradition or limited research, with the strongest (though still modest) evidence being for cooling cabbage leaves on engorged breasts. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using cabbage in large amounts or as a treatment.

Cabbage
Scientific name
Brassica oleracea
Family
Brassicaceae (Cruciferae)
Part used
Leaves (head); also juice and extracts
Common forms
Fresh vegetable, raw leaves, juice, fermented (sauerkraut), capsules, and topical leaf wraps
People commonly use it for
  • Breast engorgement during breastfeeding
  • Joint pain and swelling (topical)
  • Digestive and stomach upset
  • General nutrition and antioxidant support
  • Skin and minor inflammation (topical)

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

Safety at a glance
OverallLikely safe

Cabbage is safe for most people when eaten as a food.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

There is insufficient reliable information available about using cabbage in medicinal amounts during pregnancy; avoid using.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When used topically and appropriately, short-term. Significant adverse effects have not been reported in short-term studies. There is insufficient rel...

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

Cabbage is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae (mustard) family, which also includes broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. Common types include green, red, and Napa (Chinese) cabbage. It is grown widely around the world in cooler climates and has been a staple food for centuries.

Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber, and it contains plant antioxidants. Most people eat it raw, cooked, or fermented (such as sauerkraut or kimchi). Beyond food, cabbage has a long history in folk medicine, where chilled or crushed leaves are applied to the skin for swelling, and the vegetable or its juice is used for stomach complaints.

How it works

Cabbage contains vitamins (especially C and K), fiber, and antioxidant plant compounds. Like other cruciferous vegetables, it provides glucosinolates, which the body can convert into substances such as sulforaphane and indoles. Laboratory and animal studies suggest these compounds may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

For topical use, the proposed benefit of a cabbage leaf wrap may come partly from the cooling effect and from compounds in the leaf that could reduce swelling. It is worth noting that much of this is based on lab research or tradition, and these effects have not been clearly proven in people.

Effectiveness

Does Cabbage work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 12 uses evaluated
1 Possibly effective 11 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.
Possibly Effective Breast engorgement
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Most research shows that applying cabbage leaves to engorged breasts reduces pain and hardness to the same degree as cold compresses in lactating females with breast engorgement.

Also studied for 11 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Bladder cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if consuming cabbage is effective for the prevention of bladder cancer.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Colorectal cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if consuming cabbage is effective for the prevention of colorectal cancer.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Gastric cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if consuming cabbage is effective for the prevention of gastric cancer.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Gastritis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral cabbage for gastritis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of cabbage for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hyperlipidemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral cabbage is beneficial in patients with hyperlipidemia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Knee pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical cabbage is beneficial in patients with knee pain.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Lung cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if consuming cabbage is effective for the prevention of lung cancer.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Osteoarthritis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Small clinical studies suggest that topical cabbage leaf modestly improves pain and other symptoms in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Pancreatic cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if consuming cabbage is effective for the prevention of pancreatic cancer.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Peptic ulcers
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral cabbage for peptic ulcers, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of cabbage for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Prostate cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if consuming cabbage is effective for the prevention of prostate cancer.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Cabbage is safe and healthy for most people when eaten as a food. Concentrated supplements, extracts, or very large medicinal amounts are less well studied.

People with thyroid conditions should be aware that large amounts of raw cruciferous vegetables contain goitrogens, substances that may affect thyroid function, especially if iodine intake is low. Cooking reduces this effect, and normal dietary amounts are generally not a concern.

Pregnancy: Cabbage is fine to eat as a normal part of the diet during pregnancy. Concentrated supplements or large medicinal doses have not been well studied, so it is best to avoid them unless your provider approves.

Breastfeeding: Cabbage is safe to eat while breastfeeding. Chilled cabbage leaves are sometimes applied to the breasts for engorgement, but check with a lactation consultant or doctor first, since overuse has been reported to reduce milk supply in some cases.

Side effects

For most people, cabbage causes few problems beyond gas, bloating, or stomach discomfort, especially when eaten raw or in large amounts. Fermented forms like sauerkraut are high in salt.

Applied to the skin, cabbage leaves are usually well tolerated, but some people may notice mild skin irritation. Allergic reactions to cabbage are uncommon but possible. Stop use and seek care if you develop a rash, itching, or swelling.

Cabbage: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Reports by condition
Dermatitis Immunologic

Topically, cabbage may cause contact dermatitis. Allergic reactions to cabbage-related vegetables are rare. However, anaphylactic reactions to broccoli and cauliflower have been reported. Because the surface proteins believed to cause allergic reactions to brocolli are also found in cabbage, some patients allergic to brocolli or other vegetables in the Brassicaceae family may also be allergic to cabbage.

  1. Milanesi N, Gola M. Irritant contact dermatitis caused by Savoy cabbage. Contact Dermatitis 2016;74(1):60-1.
  2. Dolle S, Hompes S, Lange L, Worm M. Cabbage allergy: a rare cause of food-induced anaphylaxis. Acta Derm Venereol 2013;93(4):485-6.
Herpes zoster (shingles) Dermatologic

Some preliminary clinical research shows that application of cabbage leaf wraps to knee joints for at least 2 hours daily for 4 weeks is generally well-tolerated. Of the 27 patients using cabbage leaf wraps in this study, one patient reported an itching and burning sensation during the application. This patient was later found to have shingles, which may explain the adverse event. However, in another case, a patient applying fresh Savoy cabbage leaves on his knee to reduce joint pain reported pain and burning after 4 hours of use. Skin patch and prick tests did not indicate an allergic reaction, and the patient's lesion improved with wet dressings, topical antibiotics, and oral antibiotics.

  1. Lauche R, Graf N, Cramer H, Al-Abtah J, Dobos G, Saha FJ. Efficacy of cabbage leaf wraps in the treatment of symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial. Clin J Pain 2016;32(11):961-71.
  2. Milanesi N, Gola M. Irritant contact dermatitis caused by Savoy cabbage. Contact Dermatitis 2016;74(1):60-1.
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 standardized medicinal dose for cabbage. As a food, it can be eaten freely as part of a balanced diet.

For breast engorgement, a common traditional approach is to apply clean, chilled cabbage leaves to the breasts for a limited time and remove them once they wilt or symptoms ease. For supplements or juice, follow the product label. Because effective and safe doses are not well established, check with your pharmacist or doctor before using cabbage as a treatment.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Cabbage & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

There is insufficient reliable information available about using cabbage in medicinal amounts during pregnancy; avoid using.

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 15 references that drive our Cabbage 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. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  2. Pantuck EJ, Pantuck CB, Anderson KE, et al. Effect of brussels sprouts and cabbage on drug conjugation. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1984;35:161-9. PubMed
  3. Roberts KL. A comparison of chilled cabbage leaves and chilled gelpaks in reducing breast engorgement. J Hum Lact 1995;11:17-20. PubMed
  4. Roberts KL, Reiter M, Schuster D. A comparison of chilled and room temperature cabbage leaves in treating breast engorgement. J Hum Lact 1995;11:191-4. PubMed
  5. Roberts KL, Reiter M, Schuster D. Effects of cabbage leaf extract on breast engorgement. J Hum Lact 1998;14:231-6. PubMed
  6. Nikodem VC, Danziger D, Gebka N, et al. Do cabbage leaves prevent breast engorgement? A randomized, controlled study. Birth 1993;20:61-4. PubMed
  7. Balk JL. Indole-3-carbinol for cancer prevention. Altern Med Alert 2000; 3:105-7.
  8. He YH, Friesen MD, Ruch RJ, Schut HA. Indole-3-carbinol as a chemopreventive agent in 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) carcinogenesis: inhibition of PhIP-DNA adduct formation, acceleration of PhIP metabolism, and induction of cytoch
  9. Platel, K. and Srinivasan, K. Plant foods in the management of diabetes mellitus: vegetables as potential hypoglycaemic agents. Nahrung 1997;41(2):68-74. PubMed
  10. Steinkellner, H., Rabot, S., Freywald, C., Nobis, E., Scharf, G., Chabicovsky, M., Knasmuller, S., and Kassie, F. Effects of cruciferous vegetables and their constituents on drug metabolizing enzymes involved in the bioactivation of DNA-reactive dietary c
  11. Dolle S, Hompes S, Lange L, Worm M. Cabbage allergy: a rare cause of food-induced anaphylaxis. Acta Derm Venereol 2013;93(4):485-6. PubMed
  12. Lauche R, Graf N, Cramer H, Al-Abtah J, Dobos G, Saha FJ. Efficacy of cabbage leaf wraps in the treatment of symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial. Clin J Pain 2016;32(11):961-71. PubMed
  13. Lim AR, Song JA, Hur MH, Lee MK, Lee MS. Cabbage compression early breast care on breast engorgement in primiparous women after cesarean birth: a controlled trial. Int J Clin Exp Med 2015;8(11):21335-42.
  14. Milanesi N, Gola M. Irritant contact dermatitis caused by Savoy cabbage. Contact Dermatitis 2016;74(1):60-1. PubMed
  15. Saini P, Saini R. Cabbage leaves and breast engorgement. Indian J Public Health 2014;58(4):291-2. PubMed
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 Cabbage

298 brands in our database make a supplement containing Cabbage.

Product directory

Supplement products with Cabbage

2,516 products in our database contain Cabbage. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

"10" Vegetable Multi-Plex by Puritan's Pride Capsule 90 Vegecap(s) View ingredients & interactions 10-Day Acai Berry Super-Cleanse by Irwin Naturals Softgel Capsule 60 Liquid Soft-Gel(s) View ingredients & interactions 100% Fermented Organic Greens Organic Chocolate by Natural Factors Whole Earth & Sea Powder 7.7 Ounce(s) · 219 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions 100% Fermented Organic Greens Unflavored by Natural Factors Whole Earth & Sea Powder 6.9 Ounce(s) · 195 Gram(s) View ingredients & interactions 100% Vegan Complete MultiVitamin by Purely Inspired Tablet Or Pill 90 Vegan Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 20 Veggies & Mushrooms by PureMax Labs YummyVite Capsule 60 Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 40+ Every Woman II Multivitamin by New Chapter Tablet Or Pill 48 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 40+ Every Woman's One Daily Multi by New Chapter Tablet Or Pill 24 Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 40+ Every Woman's One Daily Whole Food Multivitamin by New Chapter Tablet Or Pill 96 Vegetarian Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 40+ Every Woman's One Daily Whole-Food Multivitamin by New Chapter Tablet Or Pill 72 Vegetarian Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 40+ Every Woman's One Daily Whole-Food Multivitamin by New Chapter Tablet Or Pill 48 Vegetarian Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 40+ Every Women's One Daily Multi by New Chapter Tablet Or Pill 72 Vegetarian Tablet(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Men by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 240 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions 50 & Wiser Women by Garden of Life Vitamin Code Capsule 120 Vegetarian Capsule(s) View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Cabbage: Common Questions

What is Cabbage used for, and does it work?
People use Cabbage for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Cabbage for Breast engorgement. For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Cabbage interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 325 medications with a known interaction with Cabbage. Use the checker above to see how Cabbage interacts with a specific drug.
How are Cabbage 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 Cabbage 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 Cabbage 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.
Is Cabbage good for you?
Yes. Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, fiber, and antioxidants, and it is a healthy part of most diets.
Do Cabbage leaves really help with breast engorgement?
Chilled Cabbage leaves are a popular remedy and some studies suggest they may ease discomfort and swelling, though the benefit may be similar to other cooling methods. Ask a lactation consultant before using them often.
Can I eat Cabbage during pregnancy?
Eating Cabbage as a normal food is fine during pregnancy. Concentrated Cabbage supplements or large medicinal amounts are not well studied, so avoid those unless your provider approves.
Why does Cabbage cause gas?
Cabbage contains fiber and certain sugars that gut bacteria ferment, which can produce gas and bloating. Cooking it and eating smaller portions may help reduce this.

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

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Products that contain Cabbage

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

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