Herb & supplement monograph

Pinellia Ternata Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

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

What is this page for?

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Pinellia Ternata 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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Pinellia Ternata 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 Pinellia Ternata drug interaction appears low for most people, though the whole profile points to one theme: added sleepiness with sedating medicines. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and every one rests on animal research rather than studies in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The combinations most worth attention involve sedating medications. Animal research found that a Pinellia ternata preparation decreased activity and increased sleeping time, so it could, in theory, add to the drowsiness caused by benzodiazepines such as lorazepam or alprazolam, barbiturates such as phenobarbital, and other CNS depressants including antihistamines and tricyclic antidepressants. Extra sedation matters most for anyone who needs to stay alert or is already sensitive to these medicines.

What the rest of the list means

Although the number of listed medications runs into the hundreds, nearly all of them fall under this single sedation concern. The effect has only been seen in animal studies, and it has not been confirmed in people, so most of these predicted interactions remain theoretical rather than proven problems.

Check your medications against Pinellia Ternata

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Pinellia Ternata

256 medications have a known interaction with Pinellia Ternata, 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 Pinellia Ternata using our pharmacist-reviewed interaction data.

AI summaries are generated from our Pinellia Ternata 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 Pinellia Ternata 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 Pinellia Ternata affects

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

All 3 drug categories Pinellia Ternata interacts with

BarbituratesBenzodiazepinesCns Depressants

Barbiturates

Evidence from animal research shows that a Pinellia ternata preparation decreases activity and increases sleeping time. Theoretically, Pinellia ternata can potentiate the therapeutic effect of barbiturates. Some of these sedative medications include pentobarbital (Nembutal), phenobarbital (Luminal), secobarbital (Seconal), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Benzodiazepines

Evidence from animal research shows that a Pinellia ternata preparation decreases activity and increases sleeping time. Theoretically, Pinellia ternata can potentiate the therapeutic effect of benzodiazepines. Some benzodiazepines include lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), midazolam (Versed), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Cns Depressants

Evidence from animal research shows that a Pinellia ternata preparation decreases activity and increases sleeping time. Theoretically, Pinellia ternata can potentiate the therapeutic effect of CNS depressants. Some of these medications include antihistamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, tricyclic antidepressants, and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Monograph

Pinellia Ternata: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

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

The bottom line

Pinellia ternata is a tuber used in traditional Chinese medicine, most often for nausea, vomiting, and phlegmy coughs, and almost always as part of multi-herb formulas. The raw plant is toxic and must be specially processed before use, so it should only be used under qualified guidance. Solid human evidence is limited, and it should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Scientific name: Pinellia ternata
Family: Araceae
Part used: Dried tuber (rhizome), usually processed before use
Common forms: Dried processed tuber, powder, granules, decoctions (teas), and part of multi-herb traditional formulas

People commonly use it for

Nausea and vomiting
Cough with phlegm
Morning sickness (traditional use)
Digestive upset and bloating
Throat discomfort

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

Safety at a glance

OverallUse caution

Raw Pinellia is toxic and irritating; only properly processed material used under professional guidance should be considered.

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

Pinellia ternata is a small plant in the arum family (Araceae) native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. The part used is the underground tuber, known in traditional Chinese medicine as ban xia.

In traditional practice, the tuber is used mainly to calm nausea and vomiting and to help clear phlegm from coughs. It is rarely taken alone and is usually combined with other herbs in classic formulas.

One very important point is that the raw, unprocessed tuber is considered toxic and strongly irritating to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. For this reason it is always specially processed—often by soaking, boiling, or treating with ginger or other substances—before it is used.

How it works

Pinellia tuber contains a mix of compounds including alkaloids, certain proteins and lectins, organic acids, and irritating calcium oxalate crystals. The sharp, needle-like oxalate crystals are thought to be a main reason the raw plant is so irritating, and processing is meant to reduce them.

Researchers have proposed that some of its compounds may act on the part of the digestive and nervous system that triggers vomiting, which could explain its traditional anti-nausea use. Other studies suggest possible effects on phlegm and inflammation.

It is important to know that most of these proposed mechanisms come from laboratory and animal research. They do not prove that the herb works the same way—or is helpful—in people.

Effectiveness

Does Pinellia Ternata 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 Pinellia Ternata, 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 Insomnia

Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

A meta-analysis in adults with insomnia shows that taking traditional Chinese medicines that contain Pinellia ternata improves the total effective rate for the treatment of insomnia by 23% when compared with conventional Western medicines. It is unclear if these effects are due to Pinellia ternata, other ingredients, or the combination. Poor methodology in some of the included studies and publication bias limit the validity of these findings.

Sources Ref 106544

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 biggest safety concern with Pinellia is that the raw tuber is toxic. Eating raw or poorly processed Pinellia can cause severe irritation, swelling, and burning of the mouth, tongue, and throat, and in serious cases breathing problems. Only properly processed material prepared by trained practitioners should be used.

People with throat irritation, swallowing problems, or known sensitivity should be especially careful. Because quality and processing vary between products, it is hard to be sure how much active or irritating material a supplement contains.

Pregnancy: Pinellia is traditionally cautioned against during pregnancy and lacks safety data, so it should be avoided. Breastfeeding: There is not enough information to consider it safe, so avoid use while nursing. Always check with a pharmacist or doctor before using Pinellia, especially if you have a medical condition or take other medicines.

Side effects

When the raw or under-processed tuber is taken, side effects can include intense burning and irritation of the mouth and throat, swelling, drooling, hoarseness, nausea, and stomach upset. Severe reactions can affect breathing and are a medical emergency.

Even with processed material, some people may experience digestive upset, nausea, or mouth and throat irritation. Allergic reactions are possible. Stop use and seek medical care if you have swelling, trouble breathing, or a severe reaction.

Pinellia Ternata: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Reports by condition

Asthma Pulmonary/Respiratory

If Pinellia ternata preparations are inhaled they can cause IgE-mediated occupational asthma.

Kim SH, Jeong H, Kim YK, et al. IgE-mediated occupational asthma induced by herbal medicine, Bahna (Pinellia ternata). Clin Exp Allergy 2000;31:779-81.

Cardiac arrest Cardiovascular

Pinellia ternata contains ephedrine alkaloids, which may potentially cause hypertension, tachycardia, and heart attack when used orally.

FDA, HHS. Final rule declaring dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids adulterated because they present an unreasonable risk. Fed Regist 2004;69:6787-6854.

Epilepsy Neurologic/CNS

Pinellia ternata contains ephedrine alkaloids, which may potentially cause stroke and seizures when used orally.

FDA, HHS. Final rule declaring dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids adulterated because they present an unreasonable risk. Fed Regist 2004;69:6787-6854.

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 well-established standardized dose of Pinellia ternata for supplement users. In traditional Chinese medicine it is given as processed tuber within specific multi-herb formulas, with the amount and preparation chosen by a trained practitioner.

Because the raw herb is toxic and product quality varies, you should not try to dose this herb on your own. If you use a product, follow the label exactly and ideally work with a qualified practitioner. Check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, and never use raw or unprocessed Pinellia.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Pinellia Ternata & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Pinellia Ternata & 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 Pinellia Ternata 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.

Kim SH, Jeong H, Kim YK, et al. IgE-mediated occupational asthma induced by herbal medicine, Bahna (Pinellia ternata). Clin Exp Allergy 2000;31:779-81.
FDA, HHS. Final rule declaring dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids adulterated because they present an unreasonable risk. Fed Regist 2004;69:6787-6854.
Lin S, Nie B, Yao G, Yang H, Ye R, Yuan Z. Pinellia ternata (Thunb.) makino preparation promotes sleep by increasing REM sleep. Nat Prod Res. 2019;33(22):3326-3329. PubMed
Lin YH, Chen C, Zhao X, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Banxia Formulae for Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of High-Quality Randomized Controlled Trials. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2021;2021:8833168. 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 Pinellia Ternata

3 brands in our database make a supplement containing Pinellia Ternata.

Guang Ci Tang 121 products Min Shan 86 products Plum Flower 573 products

Product directory

Supplement products with Pinellia Ternata

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

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Pinellia Ternata: Common Questions

What is Pinellia Ternata used for, and does it work?

People use Pinellia Ternata 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 Pinellia Ternata interact with prescription medications?

Yes. We list 256 medications with a known interaction with Pinellia Ternata. Use the checker above to see how Pinellia Ternata interacts with a specific drug.

How are Pinellia Ternata 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 Pinellia Ternata 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 Pinellia Ternata 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 Pinellia Ternata used for?

It is a traditional Chinese medicine herb used mainly for nausea, vomiting, and coughs with phlegm. Human evidence for these uses is limited, so it is best thought of as a traditional remedy.

Is Pinellia Ternata safe to take?

The raw tuber is toxic and very irritating, so only specially processed Pinellia used under professional guidance should be considered. Even then, talk to a pharmacist or doctor first.

Can I take Pinellia during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

No. It is traditionally cautioned against in pregnancy and lacks safety data, and there is not enough information for breastfeeding, so it should be avoided in both situations.

Why does Pinellia have to be processed before use?

The raw tuber contains irritating compounds, including sharp calcium oxalate crystals, that can cause severe mouth and throat irritation. Processing is meant to reduce this toxicity, which is why raw Pinellia should never be used.

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

Keep exploring

Products that contain Pinellia Ternata

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

See all 20 products with Pinellia Ternata →

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Pinellia Ternata Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Your Choice:

Pinellia Ternata Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

Drugs that interact with Pinellia Ternata

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 Pinellia Ternata affects

Pinellia Ternata: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Overview

How it works

Does Pinellia Ternata work?

Safety & precautions

Side effects

Pinellia Ternata: Reported Adverse Effects

Dosing

Pinellia Ternata & Pregnancy

Pinellia Ternata & Breastfeeding

References & further reading

Brands that make products with Pinellia Ternata

Supplement products with Pinellia Ternata

Pinellia Ternata: Common Questions

Related supplements & herbs

Products that contain Pinellia Ternata

Have a question about Pinellia Ternata?