Herb & supplement monograph

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

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Tansy Ragwort 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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Tansy Ragwort 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 Tansy Ragwort drug interaction appears low for most people, since every listed concern is theoretical rather than documented in humans. None of the interactions are rated major, and all of them rest on lab-based reasoning about how the body processes the plant's compounds, not on effects seen in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The one pattern worth understanding involves CYP3A4 inducers, medications that speed up an enzyme the body uses to break down certain substances. Tansy ragwort naturally contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, and this enzyme is what converts them into their toxic form. In theory, an enzyme-inducing medication could increase that conversion and raise the chance of harm from the plant itself. This effect has not been confirmed in people, but it is the reason so many medications appear on the interaction list.

What the rest of the list means

Every interaction here traces back to that single theoretical mechanism, so the sizable number of medications listed does not mean each combination has caused real-world problems. What it does reflect is a consistent, unproven concern about how enzyme-inducing drugs might change the way the body handles this plant's natural compounds.

Check your medications against Tansy Ragwort

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

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Tansy Ragwort

87 medications have a known interaction with Tansy Ragwort, 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 Tansy Ragwort using our pharmacist-reviewed interaction data.

AI summaries are generated from our Tansy Ragwort 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 Tansy Ragwort 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 Tansy Ragwort affects

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

All 1 drug category Tansy Ragwort interacts with

Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Inducers

Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Inducers

Theoretically, CYP3A4 inducers might increase the risk of adverse effects from the pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) constituents in tansy ragwort.
Tansy ragwort contains PAs. PAs are substrates of CYP3A4. Theoretically, drugs that induce CYP3A4 might increase the conversion of PAs to toxic metabolites.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Monograph

Tansy Ragwort: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

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

The bottom line

Tansy ragwort is a toxic weed that contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can seriously damage the liver. It is not recommended as a supplement or home remedy, and there is no reliable evidence that it safely treats any condition. Avoid taking it internally and talk to a pharmacist or doctor before using any herbal product.

Scientific name: Jacobaea vulgaris
Family: Asteraceae
Part used: Aerial parts (leaves, flowers, stems)
Common forms: Rarely sold as a supplement; historically used as a tea, poultice, or topical wash

People commonly use it for

Traditional wound and skin washes
Folk remedy for sore throat (gargle)
Topical poultice for joint or muscle aches
Historical use for menstrual complaints

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

Safety at a glance

OverallBest avoided

It contains liver-toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids and should not be taken internally.

PregnancyLikely Unsafe

When used orally. Tansy ragwort preparations containing hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) constituents might be teratogenic and hepatotoxic. The...

Read the full pregnancy detail

BreastfeedingLikely Unsafe

When used orally. Hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) constituents in tansy ragwort are excreted in milk. There is insufficient reliable informati...

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

Tansy ragwort is a flowering weed with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. It grows in fields, pastures, and along roadsides in Europe, North America, and other temperate regions. It belongs to the same plant family as daisies and sunflowers.

Historically, some folk traditions used the plant in topical washes, poultices, or gargles. Today it is best known as a poisonous weed that is dangerous to grazing animals like horses and cattle. It is not a recommended dietary supplement, and it is rarely if ever sold as one in reputable products.

Uses & effectiveness

People have used tansy ragwort in traditional medicine for skin wounds, sore throats, aches, and menstrual problems. However, these uses come from folk tradition, not from solid scientific study.

There is no reliable human evidence that tansy ragwort safely or effectively treats any condition. Because the plant is toxic, the risks far outweigh any unproven benefit. Most health authorities consider it unsafe to take by mouth.

How it works

Tansy ragwort contains compounds called pyrrolizidine alkaloids. When the body processes these compounds, they can turn into substances that damage liver cells and blood vessels in the liver.

The plant also contains other plant chemicals, but most research has focused on its toxicity rather than any healing benefit. Much of what we know comes from poisoning cases in animals and laboratory studies, not from studies showing it helps people.

Safety & precautions

Tansy ragwort is considered unsafe to take internally. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids it contains can build up and cause serious, sometimes permanent, liver damage. This kind of harm can develop slowly over time even with small amounts.

Pregnant and breastfeeding people should not use it at all. The toxic alkaloids can harm the liver, may reach the baby during pregnancy, and can pass into breast milk. People with any liver problems should especially avoid it.

If you have eaten or taken this plant and feel unwell, contact a poison control center or seek medical care right away. Always check with a pharmacist or doctor before using any herbal product.

Side effects

The most serious concern is liver injury. Signs of liver problems can include belly pain, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). A severe liver condition called veno-occlusive disease has been linked to pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Touching the plant may also cause skin irritation in some people. Because it is in the daisy family, people allergic to ragweed, marigolds, or similar plants may react to it.

Tansy Ragwort: Reported Adverse Effects

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

Reports by condition

Diarrhea Hepatic

Orally, the major concern with tansy ragwort use is its pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) content. These constituents can cause liver and lung injury. Chronic exposure to other plants containing hepatotoxic PA constituents is associated with veno-occlusive disease. Sub-acute veno-occlusive disease can cause vague symptoms, including colicky pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and ascites within several days; persistent liver enlargement occurs within a few weeks.

Chojkier M. Hepatic sinusoidal-obstruction syndrome: toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. J Hepatol 2003;39:437-46.
Roeder E. Medicinal plants in Europe containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Pharmazie 1995;50:83-98.
WHO working group. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Environmental Health Criteria, 80. WHO: Geneva, 1988.

Hypertension Pulmonary/Respiratory

Orally, the major concern with tansy ragwort use is its pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) content. These constituents can cause lung damage with pulmonary-arterial hypertension.

Chojkier M. Hepatic sinusoidal-obstruction syndrome: toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. J Hepatol 2003;39:437-46.
Roeder E. Medicinal plants in Europe containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Pharmazie 1995;50:83-98.

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 safe or established dose for tansy ragwort. Because of its toxicity, no medical or pharmacy authority recommends an amount to take by mouth.

If you see this plant listed in any product, do not assume it is safe. Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before using any herbal supplement, and choose products that are clearly labeled and free of toxic ingredients.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Tansy Ragwort & Pregnancy

Likely Unsafe

When used orally. Tansy ragwort preparations containing hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) constituents might be teratogenic and hepatotoxic. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of using tansy ragwort products that do not contain hepatotoxic PAs during pregnancy.

Chojkier M. Hepatic sinusoidal-obstruction syndrome: toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. J Hepatol 2003;39:437-46.
Roeder E. Medicinal plants in Europe containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Pharmazie 1995;50:83-98.

Tansy Ragwort & Breastfeeding

Likely Unsafe

When used orally. Hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) constituents in tansy ragwort are excreted in milk. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of using tansy ragwort products that do not contain hepatotoxic PAs during lactation.

Chojkier M. Hepatic sinusoidal-obstruction syndrome: toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. J Hepatol 2003;39:437-46.
Roeder E. Medicinal plants in Europe containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Pharmazie 1995;50:83-98.

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 4 references that drive our Tansy Ragwort 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.

WHO working group. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Environmental Health Criteria, 80. WHO: Geneva, 1988.
Chojkier M. Hepatic sinusoidal-obstruction syndrome: toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. J Hepatol 2003;39:437-46. PubMed
Roeder E. Medicinal plants in Europe containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Pharmazie 1995;50:83-98.
Wang YP, Yan J, Fu PP, Chou MW. Human liver microsomal reduction of pyrrolizidine alkaloid N-oxides to form the corresponding carcinogenic parent alkaloid. Toxicol Lett 2005;155:411-20. 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.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Tansy Ragwort: Common Questions

Does Tansy Ragwort interact with prescription medications?

Yes. We list 87 medications with a known interaction with Tansy Ragwort. Use the checker above to see how Tansy Ragwort interacts with a specific drug.

How are Tansy Ragwort 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 Tansy Ragwort 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 Tansy Ragwort 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 Tansy Ragwort safe to take?

No. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause serious liver damage, so it is not considered safe to take by mouth.

Is Tansy Ragwort the same as tansy?

No. Tansy Ragwort and common tansy are different plants, though both can be toxic. Names can be confusing, so check the scientific name and ask a pharmacist if you are unsure.

Can I use Tansy Ragwort while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. It should be completely avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding because its toxic alkaloids can harm both you and your baby.

What should I do if my animal or child ate Tansy Ragwort?

Contact a poison control center, veterinarian, or doctor right away, even if there are no symptoms yet, since liver damage can develop over time.

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

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