Herb & supplement monograph

Goat's Rue Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

What is this page for?

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Goat's Rue 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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Goat's Rue 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 Goat's Rue drug interaction appears low for most people. No interactions are rated major, and the single concern in the data rests on laboratory research rather than studies in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The one area worth attention is blood thinners. Lab research suggests goat's rue may keep platelets from clumping, so in theory it could add to the effect of anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs such as warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel, and heparin. Because bleeding risk is watched closely with these medicines, anyone taking them should treat this combination with extra care, even though the effect has not been confirmed in people.

What the rest of the list means

Although goat's rue is linked to a long list of medications, nearly all of that list comes from this one theoretical bleeding concern applied across the many drugs that thin the blood. A finding in laboratory research does not mean each combination is harmful, and no meaningful bleeding problems from these pairings have been documented in people so far.

Check your medications against Goat's Rue

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Goat's Rue interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Goat's Rue

122 medications have a known interaction with Goat's Rue, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

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

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

AI summaries are generated from our Goat's Rue 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 Goat's Rue 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 Goat's Rue affects

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

All 1 drug category Goat's Rue interacts with

Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Laboratory research suggests that goat's rue extract can inhibit platelet aggregation. Theoretically, goat's rue might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs. Some anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, ticlopidine (Ticlid), warfarin (Coumadin), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Monograph

Goat's Rue: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

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

The bottom line

Goat's rue is a traditional herb most often used by nursing parents to try to increase milk supply, and it has a historical link to diabetes research. Solid human evidence for either use is limited, and the plant can be toxic in larger amounts, so use it only under the guidance of a pharmacist or doctor.

Scientific name: Galega officinalis
Family: Fabaceae
Part used: Above-ground parts (leaves, flowering tops, and seeds)
Common forms: Tea, capsules, tincture, dried herb

People commonly use it for

Boosting breast milk supply
Blood sugar support
Traditional digestive remedy
General tonic

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

Safety at a glance

OverallUse caution

The fresh plant can be toxic, and well-controlled human safety data on supplements are limited.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

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.

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Overview

Goat's rue (Galega officinalis) is a flowering plant in the legume (pea) family. It is native to parts of Europe and the Middle East and now grows in many regions, sometimes as an invasive weed. Its tall stems carry small purple, white, or pinkish flowers.

People have used goat's rue for centuries as a folk remedy. Today it is best known as a galactagogue — an herb taken to try to increase breast milk. It also has a place in medical history, since compounds in the plant helped inspire the development of modern diabetes medicine.

It is commonly sold as a dried herb, tea, tincture, or capsule, often by itself or blended with other "milk-supply" herbs like fenugreek and blessed thistle.

How it works

Goat's rue contains galegine and related guanidine compounds, which appear to lower blood sugar in laboratory and animal studies. This blood-sugar effect is what historically linked the plant to the development of metformin.

How it might increase milk supply is not well understood. Some believe it may act on breast tissue or hormones involved in milk production, but this is mostly based on tradition and theory rather than clear human research.

It is important to know that much of what we know comes from lab, animal, or historical sources rather than large, modern human trials.

Effectiveness

Does Goat's Rue work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD.

Evidence overview · 1 use evaluated

1 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.

For Goat's Rue, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 1 condition — evidence insufficient to rate

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Lactation

Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

A survey of mothers using a specific goat's rue product (Lactogal Plus;Schabe Pharma Italia Srl), which also contained vitamins and magnesium, shows that 77% of those surveyed self-reported sufficient changes in milk production. Most mothers reported taking the product for at least 2 weeks, but information on the dose used was not provided. The validity of this study is limited by the lack of a comparator group and unclear dosing regimens. It is also unclear if this potential effect is due to goat's rue, additional vitamins and magnesium, or the combination.

Sources Ref 104533

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

The fresh or improperly dried plant can be toxic, and livestock poisonings have been reported when animals eat large amounts. For this reason, it should only be used as a properly prepared supplement and in reasonable amounts.

People with diabetes should be especially careful, because goat's rue may lower blood sugar and could add to the effect of other blood-sugar-lowering treatments. Anyone with a medical condition, or who takes regular medications, should talk to a pharmacist or doctor first.

Pregnancy: There is not enough safety information, so goat's rue should be avoided during pregnancy. Breastfeeding: Although it is traditionally used to support milk supply, product quality varies and safety data are limited, so use it only with guidance from a healthcare professional.

Side effects

Reported side effects are not well documented but may include mild digestive upset such as nausea. Because the herb can lower blood sugar, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is a possible concern, with symptoms like shakiness, sweating, dizziness, or confusion.

Taking too much, or using poorly prepared plant material, raises the risk of toxicity. Stop use and seek medical care if you feel unwell after taking it.

Dosing

There is no well-established, standardized dose for goat's rue. Products vary widely in strength and form, including teas, tinctures, and capsules.

The safest approach is to follow the directions on the product label and to check with a pharmacist or doctor before starting, especially if you are nursing, have diabetes, or take any medications. Do not exceed the recommended amount, and choose products from reputable brands.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Goat's Rue & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Goat's Rue & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; 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 6 references that drive our Goat's Rue 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.

Atanasov AT. Effect of Galega officinalis L. extract on platelet aggregation in rats. J Herbs Spices Med Plants 1995;3:71-6.
Atanasov, A. T. and Spasov, V. Inhibiting effect of desalted extract from Galega officinalis L. on platelet aggregation. Folia Med.(Plovdiv.) 1999;41(1):46-50.
Atanasov, A. T. and Spasov, V. Inhibiting and disaggregating effect of gel-filtered Galega officinalis L. herbal extract on platelet aggregation. J.Ethnopharmacol. 2000;69(3):235-240. PubMed
Atanasov, A. T. and Tchorbanov, B. Anti-platelet fraction from Galega officinalis L. inhibits platelet aggregation. J.Med.Food 2002;5(4):229-234.
Atanasov, A. T. and Tchorbanov, B. J. Antiplatelet aggregation activity of a fraction isolated from Galega officinalis L. J Herbs Spices Medicinal Plant 2002;10(2):63-71.
Salatino S, Giacomelli L, Carnevali I, Giacomelli E. The role of natural galactagogues during breast feeding: focus on a Galega officinalis based food supplement. Minerva Pediatr. 2017 Dec;69(6):531-537. 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.

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Goat's Rue

26 brands in our database make a supplement containing Goat's Rue.

Advanced Nutrition by Zahler 135 products Dr. Berg 106 products Dr. Berg's 16 products DrBerg Nutritionals 10 products Fairhaven Health Milkies 4 products Gaia Herbs 700 products Gaia Herbs SystemSupport 60 products Hawaii Pharm 4,726 products Herb Pharm 3,320 products Herbal Terra 3,138 products Herbally Grounded 81 products Herbs SRA 62 products HMS Nutrition 22 products Legendairy Milk 22 products Mama's Select 12 products Mommy Knows Best 6 products Motherlove 25 products Oat Mama 13 products Perque 114 products Progressive Professional from Progressive Laboratories 223 products Signature Supplements 107 products TerraVita 2,475 products TerraVita Premium Collection 4,019 products The Supermom Company 2 products

Product directory

Supplement products with Goat's Rue

80 products in our database contain Goat's Rue. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Goat's Rue: Common Questions

What is Goat's Rue used for, and does it work?

People use Goat's Rue for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.

Does Goat's Rue interact with prescription medications?

Yes. We list 122 medications with a known interaction with Goat's Rue. Use the checker above to see how Goat's Rue interacts with a specific drug.

How are Goat's Rue 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 Goat's Rue 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 Goat's Rue 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 Goat's Rue mainly used for?

It is most often used by nursing parents to try to increase breast milk supply, and it has a historical link to blood-sugar lowering. Strong human evidence for either use is limited.

Is Goat's Rue safe to take while breastfeeding?

It is traditionally used to support milk supply, but research is limited and product quality varies. Talk to a lactation consultant, pharmacist, or doctor before using it.

Can Goat's Rue lower blood sugar?

It contains compounds that lowered blood sugar in early and animal studies, and it helped inspire the diabetes drug metformin. Even so, the raw herb is not a proven diabetes treatment and could cause low blood sugar if combined with other treatments.

Is Goat's Rue poisonous?

The fresh or improperly dried plant can be toxic and has caused poisoning in grazing animals. Use only properly prepared supplements in reasonable amounts and avoid eating the raw plant.

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

Keep exploring

Products that contain Goat's Rue

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

See all 80 products with Goat's Rue →

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Goat's Rue Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Your Choice:

Goat's Rue Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

Drugs that interact with Goat's Rue

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

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

Where This Data Comes From

The kinds of drugs Goat's Rue affects

Goat's Rue: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Overview

How it works

Does Goat's Rue work?

Safety & precautions

Side effects

Dosing

Goat's Rue & Pregnancy

Goat's Rue & Breastfeeding

References & further reading

Brands that make products with Goat's Rue

Supplement products with Goat's Rue

Goat's Rue: Common Questions

Related supplements & herbs

Products that contain Goat's Rue

Have a question about Goat's Rue?