Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Based on 8 of 9 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Functional Female Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by NuMedica

Functional Female label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Major
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Functional Female against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Functional Female is a dietary supplement by NuMedica with 9 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for estrogen/hormone balance, acne and hormonal skin issues, prostate health support.Based on those ingredients, 1,592 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Ashwagandha Leaf, Root, Stem Extract, Ginseng Aerial Part Extract, Grape Seed Extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Functional Female by NuMedica

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Functional Female by NuMedica — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

Pharmacist-reviewed data Checks every ingredient Answer in seconds
Prefer a human? Send your question to our licensed pharmacists — free, answered by email within 24 hours.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Functional Female by NuMedica

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 11, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 9 of its 9 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Functional Female contains nine active ingredients designed to support female health. These include Betaine, Diindolylmethane (a compound derived from cruciferous vegetables), Stinging Nettle Root Extract, Velvet Bean Seed Extract (which naturally contains levodopa, an active drug-like compound), Longjack Root Extract (Eurycoma longifolia), Tribulus Fruit Extract, Ashwagandha (leaf, root, and stem extract), Grape Seed Extract, and Panax Ginseng (Ginseng Aerial Part Extract).

The product also contains inactive ingredients — Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Microcrystalline Cellulose, and Magnesium Stearate — which are excipients used to form and stabilize the capsule.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: support healthy hormone metabolism in women.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related testosterone deficiency, Anxiety, Athletic performance, Fatigue, hormone balance, women's health — and 2 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Anxiety (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
  • Also on file: Panax Ginseng is rated "Possibly Effective" for Multiple sclerosis-related fatigue.

The evidence for individual ingredients varies. Stinging Nettle shows possibly effective evidence for diabetes support, while Tribulus and Longjack are possibly effective for sexual function; Panax Ginseng is possibly effective for erectile function, sexual arousal, influenza support, cognitive function, and multiple sclerosis-related fatigue.

Ashwagandha is possibly effective for insomnia, anxiety, and stress. Grape Seed Extract is possibly effective for chronic venous insufficiency.

However, many claimed uses — including benign prostatic hyperplasia, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, back pain, and athletic performance — have insufficient reliable evidence, meaning the data we hold doesn't establish that these ingredients work for those purposes. We don't hold effectiveness data for Betaine or the remaining ingredient combinations.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Diindolylmethane Stinging Nettle Cowhage Eurycoma Longifolia Tribulus Ashwagandha Grape Panax Ginseng

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 8 of the 8 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 8 of 8.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 8 of 8.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Most ingredients are generally well tolerated when used short-term, though long-term safety data are often limited. Common mild side effects with these ingredients include gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gas, constipation), headache, and rash.

Ashwagandha and Diindolylmethane carry rare but serious concerns: ashwagandha has been linked to acute liver failure and hepatic encephalopathy in case reports; diindolylmethane has caused a rare serious skin reaction (DRESS syndrome) and a single stroke case (though causality was unclear). Velvet Bean Seed Extract, which contains levodopa, requires careful use because levodopa is an active pharmaceutical compound with potential for serious adverse effects.

Stinging Nettle includes a case report of drug-induced liver injury after one month of use in a combination herbal product. Tribulus has rare reports of liver and kidney injury, seizures, and chronic painful erection.

Grape Seed Extract is generally well tolerated; anaphylaxis to grape skin is very rare.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Diindolylmethane Stinging Nettle Cowhage Eurycoma Longifolia Tribulus Ashwagandha Grape Panax Ginseng

Meds to double-check

Major interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Major identified

At least one ingredient has a documented Major-severity interaction. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 8 of the 8 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Tribulus, Grape, Stinging Nettle, Ashwagandha, Panax Ginseng, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications; lithium; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 1,593 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, double-check these medications with your pharmacist: blood pressure medications (Major risk with methyldopa; Moderate risk with all antihypertensives), MAOIs or other antidepressants (Major risk with MAOIs; Moderate risk with tricyclic types), blood thinners like warfarin (Moderate), diabetes medications (Moderate), sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs including benzodiazepines (Moderate), lithium (Moderate), thyroid hormone (Moderate), and any drug metabolized by your liver's cytochrome P450 enzymes (Minor to Moderate, depending on the enzyme). No interactions are documented for Betaine, which we could not check.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This is a multi-ingredient female health supplement with active compounds that work on hormones, dopamine, and liver enzymes. It's best suited for adults looking to support sexual function, mood, or stress — but only after checking your medications with a pharmacist, especially if you take blood pressure drugs, blood thinners, diabetes medications, sedatives, or antidepressants.

Avoid it if you take methyldopa or MAOIs (antidepressants) — the levodopa in Velvet Bean poses serious safety risks. Talk to your pharmacist before starting, and don't use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without professional guidance.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 8 of 9 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 23, 2025.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Functional Female, straight from the product label.

Brand NuMedica
Barcode (UPC) 812527015371
Net contents 120 Vegetable Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 23, 2025
DSLD ID 323532
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegetarian, Women (not pregnant or lactating), Adult Female (18 - 50 Years), Seniors/Mature (>50 Years) - Women ONLY, Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Functional Female by NuMedica, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
812527015371
IngredientAmount% DV
Betaine7.5 mg--
Diindolylmethane100 mg--
Stinging Nettle Root Extract100 mg--
Velvet Bean Seed Extract100 mg--
Longjack Root Extract50 mg--
Tribulus Fruit Extract200 mg--
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root, Stem Extract250 mg--
Grape Seed Extract10 mg--
Ginseng Aerial Part Extract200 mg--

Other ingredients: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Magnesium Stearate

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: Take two capsules twice per day or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Formulation

Functional Female is NuMedica's powerful blend of nine synergistic ingredients designed to help support healthy hormone metabolism in women. Additionally, the select ingredients in this formula have been proven clinically effective in supporting sexual health and energy, promoting healthy cortisol levels and providing dopamine support.

Does not contain: Milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy.

Gluten-Free

Vegetarian

Professional quality formulas Supports healthy hormone metabolism

Performance formula

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Precautions

Warning: Contains Ashwagandha root.

Do not use if pregnant or nursing.

Caution: Keep out of reach of children.

Storage

Storage: Keep tightly closed in a cool, dry place.

Seals/Symbols

cGMP Third-Party Certified Facility

Brand IP Statement(s)

NuMedica Advancing Nutrition

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Functional Female by NuMedica label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

Functional Female label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Functional Female by NuMedica

These are the 9 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Betaine

7.5 mg per serving Form: Betaine Hydrochloride

Diindolylmethane

Interacts with
269 drugs
100 mg per serving

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound made when your body digests cruciferous vegetables, and it is sold as a supplement mainly for hormone balance and...

Diindolylmethane monograph & interactions

Stinging Nettle Root Extract

Interacts with
164 drugs
100 mg per serving

Stinging nettle is a common plant used as food and in traditional medicine, most often for prostate symptoms, allergies, and joint pain. The evidence...

Stinging Nettle Root Extract monograph & interactions

Velvet Bean Seed Extract

Interacts with
193 drugs
100 mg per serving Form: Mucuna pruriens Seed Extract

Cowhage (Mucuna pruriens) is a tropical legume best known as a natural source of L-dopa, the compound the body turns into dopamine. It is most studied...

Velvet Bean Seed Extract monograph & interactions

Longjack Root Extract

Interacts with
248 drugs
50 mg per serving

Eurycoma longifolia (tongkat ali) is a Southeast Asian herb most popular for supporting testosterone, libido, and male fertility, with some small huma...

Longjack Root Extract monograph & interactions

Tribulus Fruit Extract

Interacts with
259 drugs
200 mg per serving Form: Saponins

Tribulus is a plant supplement most often marketed to boost libido, testosterone, and athletic performance, but the human evidence behind these claims...

Tribulus Fruit Extract monograph & interactions

Ashwagandha Leaf, Root, Stem Extract

Interacts with
1,372 drugs
250 mg per serving Form: Ashwagandha Leaf Extract, Ashwagandha Root Extract, Ashwagandha Stem Extract

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evid...

Ashwagandha Leaf, Root, Stem Extract monograph & interactions

Grape Seed Extract

Interacts with
910 drugs
10 mg per serving Form: Polyphenols

Grapes and grape products like grape seed extract contain antioxidant compounds such as resveratrol and proanthocyanidins that may support heart and b...

Grape Seed Extract monograph & interactions

Ginseng Aerial Part Extract

Interacts with
1,130 drugs
200 mg per serving Form: Ginsenosides

Panax ginseng is a popular traditional herb used to boost energy, ease stress, and support overall wellness, though scientific evidence is mixed and m...

Ginseng Aerial Part Extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Magnesium Stearate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Functional Female by NuMedica Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Functional Female?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

 Go to the checker
1,592Drugs
17 Major 1,537 Moderate 38 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Ashwagandha Leaf, Root, Stem Extract 1,372
Ginseng Aerial Part Extract 1,130
Grape Seed Extract 910
Diindolylmethane 269
Tribulus Fruit Extract 259

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Functional Female interact with 1,592 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

8 of the 9 ingredients in Functional Female interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Ashwagandha Leaf, Root, Stem Extract Ginseng Aerial Part Extract Grape Seed Extract Diindolylmethane Tribulus Fruit Extract Longjack Root Extract Velvet Bean Seed Extract Stinging Nettle Root Extract

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Functional Female with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Ashwagandha Leaf, Root, Stem Extract10 drug types · 1,372 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
There is preliminary clinical evidence suggesting that ashwagandha might lower blood glucose levels. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research suggests that ashwagandha might lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Benzodiazepines

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of benzodiazepines.
There is preliminary evidence that ashwagandha might have an additive effect with diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin). This may also occur with other benzodiazepines.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Ashwagandha seems to have sedative effects. Theoretically, this may potentiate the effects of barbiturates, other sedatives, and anxiolytics.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Ashwagandha has been linked to cases of acute hepatitis, liver failure, hepatic encephalopathy, autoimmune hepatitis, the need for liver transplantation, and death due to liver failure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressants.
Ashwagandha has demonstrated immunostimulant effects in humans. Animal research has shown that ashwagandha can attenuate the immunosuppression caused by cyclophosphamide.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Ashwagandha might increase the effects and adverse effects of thyroid hormone.
Concomitant use of ashwagandha with thyroid hormones may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects. Preliminary clinical research and animal studies suggest that ashwagandha boosts thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. In one clinical study, ashwagandha increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels by 41.5% and 19.6%, respectively, and reduced serum TSH levels by 17.4% from baseline in adults with subclinical hypothyroidism.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP1A2 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP3A4 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Some animal studies have reported that ashwagandha can enhance serotonergic transmission by altering certain serotonin (5-HT) receptors. However, there is no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha increases the risk of serotonin-related effects, and there have been no published case reports of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs. Nevertheless, due to the lack of extensive studies on the matter and the fact that ashwagandha appears to affect serotonergic pathways, it would be prudent to exercise caution when combining it with drugs that affect serotonin. [References: - Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwaga ndha) on Stress and the Stress-Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders Anxiety, Depression, and Insomnia. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2021 Sep 14; 19: 1468–1495. - A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/]

Likelihood Possible Evidence C
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root, Stem Extract full monograph & interactions

Ginseng Aerial Part Extract20 drug types · 1,130 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Although Panax ginseng has shown antiplatelet effects in the laboratory, it is unlikely to increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro evidence suggests that ginsenoside constituents in Panax ginseng might decrease platelet aggregation. However, research in humans suggests that ginseng does not affect platelet aggregation. Animal research indicates low oral bioavailability of Rb1 and rapid elimination of Rg1, which might explain the discrepancy between in vitro and human research. Until more is known, use with caution in patients concurrently taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking Panax ginseng with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Clinical research suggests that Panax ginseng might decrease blood glucose levels. Monitor blood glucose levels closely.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Caffeine

Theoretically, taking Panax ginseng with caffeine might increase the risk of adverse stimulant effects.
Panax ginseng has been shown to have stimulant effects. Theoretically, caffeine might have an additive effect on the stimulant effects of Panax ginseng.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, Panax ginseng might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6. However, research is conflicting.
There is some evidence that Panax ginseng can inhibit the CYP2D6 enzyme by approximately 6%. In addition, in animal research, Panax ginseng inhibits the metabolism of dextromethorphan, a drug metabolized by CYP2D6, by a small amount. However, contradictory research suggests Panax ginseng might not inhibit CYP2D6. Until more is known, use Panax ginseng cautiously in patients taking drugs metabolized by these enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, Panax ginseng might increase or decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Panax ginseng may affect the clearance of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4. One such drug is imatinib. Inhibition of CYP3A4 was believed to be responsible for a case of imatinib-induced hepatotoxicity. In contrast, Panax ginseng has been shown to increase the clearance of midazolam, another drug metabolized by CYP3A4. Clinical research shows that Panax ginseng can reduce midazolam area under the curve by 44%, maximum plasma concentration by 26%, and time to reach maximum plasma concentration by 29%. Midazolam metabolism was also increased in animals given Panax ginseng. Until more is known, use Panax ginseng cautiously in combination with CYP3A4 substrates.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Estrogens

Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of Panax ginseng might interfere with hormone replacement therapy.
Laboratory research and some case reports suggest that Panax ginseng can have estrogenic effects due to competition for estrogen receptors. The estrogenic activity is attributed to the ginsenoside constituents of Panax ginseng.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Furosemide (Lasix)

Theoretically, Panax ginseng might reduce the effects of furosemide.
There is some concern that Panax ginseng might contribute to furosemide resistance. There is one case of resistance to furosemide diuresis in a patient taking a germanium-containing ginseng product.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Imatinib (Gleevec)

Theoretically, Panax ginseng might increase the effects and adverse effects of imatinib.
A case of imatinib-induced hepatotoxicity has been reported for a 26-year-old male with chronic myelogenous leukemia stabilized on imatinib for 7 years. The patient took imatinib 400 mg along with a Panax ginseng-containing energy drink daily for 3 months. Since imatinib-associated hepatotoxicity typically occurs within 2 years of initiating therapy, it is believed that Panax ginseng affected imatinib toxicity though inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4. CYP3A4 is the primary enzyme involved in imatinib metabolism.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, Panax ginseng use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Panax ginseng might have immune system stimulating properties.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Insulin

Theoretically, taking Panax ginseng with insulin might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Clinical research suggests that Panax ginseng might decrease blood glucose levels. Insulin dose adjustments might be necessary in patients taking Panax ginseng; use with caution.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Midazolam (Versed)

Theoretically, Panax ginseng may increase the clearance of midazolam.
Midazolam is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Clinical research suggests that Panax ginseng can reduce midazolam area under the curve by 44%, maximum plasma concentration by 26%, and time to reach maximum plasma concentration by 29%. Midazolam metabolism was also increased in animals given Panax ginseng.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)

Theoretically, Panax ginseng can interfere with MAOI therapy.
Concomitant use of Panax ginseng with phenelzine (Nardil) is associated with insomnia, headache, tremors, and hypomania.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Nifedipine (Procardia)

Theoretically, taking Panax ginseng with nifedipine might increase serum levels of nifedipine and the risk of hypotension.
Preliminary clinical research shows that concomitant use can increase serum levels of nifedipine in healthy volunteers. This might cause the blood pressure lowering effects of nifedipine to be increased when taken concomitantly with Panax ginseng.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Qt Interval-Prolonging Drugs

Theoretically, Panax ginseng has an additive effect with drugs that prolong the QT interval and potentially increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias. However, research is conflicting.
Clinical research shows that short-term use of Panax ginseng can increase the QT interval. However, no changes in QT interval have been identified with prolonged use.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Raltegravir (Isentress)

Theoretically, taking Panax ginseng with raltegravir might increase the risk of liver toxicity.
A case report suggests that concomitant use of Panax ginseng with raltegravir can increase serum levels of raltegravir, resulting in elevated liver enzymes levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Selegiline (Eldepryl)

Theoretically, Panax ginseng might increase or decrease levels of selegiline, possibly altering the effects and side effects of selegiline.
Animal research shows that taking selegiline with a low dose of Panax ginseng extract (1 gram/kg) reduces selegiline bioavailability, while taking a high dose of Panax ginseng extract (3 grams/kg) increases selegiline bioavailability. More research is needed to confirm these effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Stimulant Drugs

Theoretically, taking Panax ginseng with stimulant drugs might increase the risk of adverse stimulant effects.
Panax ginseng has been shown to have stimulant effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Panax ginseng might affect the clearance of warfarin. However, this interaction appears to be unlikely.
There has been a single case report of decreased effectiveness of warfarin in a patient who also took Panax ginseng. However, it is questionable whether Panax ginseng was the cause of this decrease in warfarin effectiveness. Some research in humans and animals suggests that Panax ginseng does not affect the pharmacokinetics of warfarin. However, other research in humans suggests that Panax ginseng might modestly increase the clearance of the S-warfarin isomer. More evidence is needed to determine whether Panax ginseng causes a significant interaction with warfarin.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Fexofenadine (Allegra)

Theoretically, Panax ginseng might decrease blood levels of oral or intravenous fexofenadine.
Animal research suggests that taking Panax ginseng in combination with oral or intravenous fexofenadine may reduce the bioavailability of fexofenadine. Some scientists have attributed this effect to the ability of Panax ginseng to increase the expression of P-glycoprotein.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lopinavir/Ritonavir (Kaletra)

Although Panax ginseng has demonstrated variable effects on cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which metabolizes lopinavir, Panax ginseng is unlikely to alter levels of lopinavir/ritonavir.
Lopinavir is metabolized by CYP3A4 and is administered with the CYP3A4 inhibitor ritonavir to increase its plasma concentrations. Panax ginseng has shown variable effects on CYP3A4 activity in humans. However, taking Panax ginseng (Vitamer Laboratories) 500 mg twice daily for 14 days did not alter the pharmacokinetics of lopinavir/ritonavir in 12 healthy volunteers.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Ginseng Aerial Part Extract full monograph & interactions

Grape Seed Extract9 drug types · 910 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, grape extracts may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro evidence suggests that grape extracts might decrease platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Ingesting grape juice with cyclosporine can reduce cyclosporine absorption.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy young adults shows that intake of purple grape juice 200 mL along with cyclosporine can decrease the absorption of cyclosporine by up to 30% when compared with water. Separate doses of grape juice and cyclosporine by at least 2 hours to avoid this interaction.

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

Theoretically, grape juice might reduce the levels of CYP1A2 substrates.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy adults shows that ingestion of 200 mL of grape juice decreases phenacetin plasma levels. This is thought to be due to induction of CYP1A2.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, grape seed extract may increase the levels of CYP2D6 substrates.
In vitro evidence suggests that grape seed extract might inhibit CYP2D6 enzymes. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (Cyp2E1) Substrates

Theoretically, grape seed extract might increase the levels of CYP2E1 substrates.
In vitro and animal research suggests that grape seed proanthocyanidin extract inhibits CYP2E1 enzymes. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

It is unclear if grape seed extract inhibits or induces CYP3A4; research is conflicting.
In vitro evidence suggests that grape seed extract might inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes. However, evidence from animal research shows that grape seed extract may induce CYP3A4 in the liver. So far, these interactions have not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Midazolam (Versed)

Theoretically, long-term intake of grape seed extract might decrease the effects of midazolam.
Animal research shows that subchronic ingestions of grape seed extract can increase the elimination of intravenous midazolam by increasing hepatic CYP3A4 activity. Single doses of grape seed extract do not appear to affect midazolam elimination.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenacetin

Grape juice might decrease phenacetin absorption.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy adults shows that ingestion of 200 mL of grape juice decreases phenacetin plasma levels. This is thought to be due to induction of cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2).

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

It is unclear if grape juice or grape seed extract inhibits CYP2C9; research is conflicting.
In vitro evidence shows that grape seed extract or grape juice might inhibit CYP2C9 enzymes. However, a small pharmacokinetic study in healthy adults shows that drinking 8 ounces of grape juice once does not affect the clearance of flurbiprofen, a probe-drug for CYP2C9 metabolism. The effects of continued grape juice consumption are unclear.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Grape Seed Extract full monograph & interactions

Diindolylmethane3 drug types · 269 drugs

Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase the risk of hyponatremia if used with sodium-depleting diuretics.
Large doses of diindolylmethane (600 mg daily) have been associated with two cases of asymptomatic hyponatremia in clinical research.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Estrogens

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might increase or decrease the effects of estrogens.
Diindolylmethane might have mild estrogenic or antiestrogenic effects. Theoretically, large amounts of diindolylmethane might interfere with hormone replacement therapy.

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

Theoretically, diindolylmethane might lower serum levels of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro evidence suggests that diindolylmethane can induce CYP1A2. Theoretically, it might increase metabolism of CYP1A2 substrates and lower serum concentrations. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Diindolylmethane full monograph & interactions

Tribulus Fruit Extract3 drug types · 259 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking tribulus with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Clinical research shows that Tribulus can lower blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes who are taking antidiabetes medications.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking tribulus with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research shows that tribulus can lower blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). Tribulus has also demonstrated hypotensive effects in pre-hypertensive adults.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, tribulus might increase the levels and clinical effects of lithium.
Tribulus is thought to have diuretic properties. Due to these potential diuretic effects, tribulus might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium. The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Tribulus Fruit Extract full monograph & interactions

Longjack Root Extract5 drug types · 248 drugs

Propranolol (Inderal)

Eurycoma longifolia can reduce the levels and clinical effects of propranolol.
A small clinical study in healthy persons shows that taking a single dose of a water-based Eurycoma longifolia extract 200 mg, in combination with a single dose of propranolol 80 mg, reduces the propranolol area under the curve (AUC) by 29%, reduces the peak concentration by 42%, and increases time to peak concentration by 86% when compared with control. Since the elimination half-life of propranolol did not change, it seems that Eurycoma longifolia alters the kinetics of propranolol by decreasing its absorption in the gut, and not by altering its metabolism. It is not known if separating administration will prevent this interaction.

Likelihood Probable Evidence A
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, Eurycoma longifolia might increase levels CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that methanolic Eurycoma longifolia root extract weakly inhibits CYP1A2 enzymes. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2A6 (Cyp2A6) Substrates

Theoretically, Eurycoma longifolia might increase levels of CYP2A6 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that methanolic Eurycoma longifolia root extract weakly inhibits CYP2A6 enzymes. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, Eurycoma longifolia might increase levels of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that methanolic Eurycoma longifolia root extract weakly inhibits CYP2C19 enzymes. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Testosterone

Theoretically, Eurycoma longifolia may further increase levels of testosterone.
A clinical study in aging males with testosterone levels below 300 ng/dL shows that taking a specific water extract of Eurycoma longifolia roots (Physta; Biotropics Malaysia) 100-200 mg daily with breakfast for 12 weeks increases total testosterone levels by 8% to 11% when compared with placebo. It is unclear whether this increase would occur in individuals with normal testosterone levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Longjack Root Extract full monograph & interactions

Velvet Bean Seed Extract8 drug types · 193 drugs

Levodopa

Concomitant use can increase the risk of levodopa-related adverse effects.
Cowhage contains levodopa. Some cowhage products have been standardized to contain 75-400 mg of levodopa per dose.

Likelihood Likely Evidence D
Methyldopa (Aldomet)

Theoretically, concomitant use of cowhage and methyldopa might increase the risk of hypotension.
Cowhage contains levodopa. Use of levodopa with methyldopa might cause additive hypotension. In addition, methyldopa may inhibit peripheral decarboxylation of levodopa and increase levodopa levels in the central nervous system; avoid using.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)

Theoretically, concomitant use of cowhage and non-selective MAOIs might increase the risk of hypertensive crisis.
Cowhage contains levodopa. Use of levodopa with non-selective MAOIs might cause hypertensive crisis. However, this interaction has not been reported with MAO-B selective inhibitors such as selegiline.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anesthesia

Theoretically, concomitant use of cowhage and anesthesia might increase the risk of arrhythmias.
Cowhage contains levodopa. Use of levodopa with cyclopropane or halogenated hydrocarbon anesthesia has led to arrhythmias. Other anesthetics have not been implicated. Use other anesthetics in patients taking cowhage or tell patients to stop taking cowhage at least 2 weeks before surgery.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of cowhage and antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Animal research shows that cowhage might have hypoglycemic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antipsychotic Drugs

Theoretically, use of cowhage might decrease the clinical effects of antipsychotic drugs.
Cowhage contains levodopa. Use of levodopa might counteract the antidopaminergic effects of antipsychotic medications.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Guanethidine (Ismelin)

Theoretically, concomitant use of cowhage and guanethidine might increase the risk of hypotension.
Cowhage contains levodopa. Use of levodopa with guanethidine might cause additive hypotension; avoid using.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Tricyclic Antidepressants (Tcas)

Theoretically, use of TCAs might reduce the levels and clinical effects of cowhage.
Cowhage contains levodopa. Use of TCAs might reduce the absorption of levodopa. Some case reports describe patients that developed hypertension and dyskinesia when taking both levodopa and TCAs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Velvet Bean Seed Extract full monograph & interactions

Stinging Nettle Root Extract4 drug types · 164 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, stinging nettle might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
Clinical research shows that stinging nettle might decrease blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, combining stinging nettle with diuretic drugs may have additive effects.
Animal research suggests that the above ground parts and roots of stinging nettle may have a diuretic effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, stinging nettle might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.
Animal research suggests that stinging nettle has diuretic and natriuretic properties, which could alter the excretion of lithium. The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

There is some concern that stinging nettle might decrease the effects of anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin.
Stinging nettle contains a significant amount of vitamin K. When taken in large quantities, this might interfere with the activity of warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Stinging Nettle Root Extract full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Functional Female, from the product label.

NuMedica

See all NuMedica products
Name
NuMedica LLC
Street Address
9503 E. 55th Place
City
Tulsa
State
OK
ZipCode
74145
Phone Number
800.869.8100
Web Address
www.numedica.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Functional Female by NuMedica: Common Questions

Does Functional Female by NuMedica interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Functional Female has a known interaction with 1,592 medications, including 17 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Functional Female contains 9 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Does this product work for female sexual function?
Tribulus and Longjack show possibly effective evidence for sexual function, and Panax Ginseng is possibly effective for erectile function and sexual arousal. However, this is a multi-ingredient product, and the combination hasn't been tested as a whole — the evidence applies to the individual ingredients.
Can I take this while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Most of the ingredients either have insufficient safety data or data advises against use during pregnancy due to hormonal effects. Stinging Nettle, Velvet Bean, and Tribulus should be avoided in pregnancy; Velvet Bean should be avoided while breastfeeding because levodopa can lower milk supply. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
What are the most common side effects?
Gastrointestinal upset — diarrhea, nausea, gas, constipation — is most common across these ingredients. Headache and rash have also been reported. Most people tolerate the product well short-term, but long-term safety data are limited.
Why does this contain levodopa (in Velvet Bean Seed Extract)?
Velvet Bean naturally contains levodopa, a compound that acts like the drug used for Parkinson's disease. It's included because it may support certain aspects of female sexual and hormonal function, but it's also why this ingredient carries serious medication interactions — levodopa requires careful handling with blood pressure and antidepressant drugs.
Is this safe with my blood pressure or diabetes medication?
Multiple ingredients in this product — including Tribulus, Ashwagandha, Stinging Nettle, and Panax Ginseng — can lower blood pressure and blood sugar. If you take medications for either condition, check with your pharmacist before starting, as you may need dose adjustments.
What's the difference between this and other female supplements?
Functional Female is a combination of nine active ingredients targeting sexual function, hormone balance, and stress — each with its own interaction profile and side effect history. The strength of this formula is that multiple ingredients have some evidence for female sexual function, but that also means more potential medication interactions to check.

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

Not sure if Functional Female is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Functional Female label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Functional Female’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Diindolylmethane

Interacts with 269 drugs

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound made when your body digests cruciferous vegetables, and it is sold as a supplement mainly for hormone balance and cancer prevention. Although early lab s...

Read the full Diindolylmethane monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Stinging Nettle

Interacts with 164 drugs

Stinging nettle is a common plant used as food and in traditional medicine, most often for prostate symptoms, allergies, and joint pain. The evidence is mixed and mostly preliminary, so it i...

Read the full Stinging Nettle monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Cowhage

Interacts with 193 drugs

Cowhage (Mucuna pruriens) is a tropical legume best known as a natural source of L-dopa, the compound the body turns into dopamine. It is most studied for Parkinson's disease symptoms and ma...

Read the full Cowhage monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Eurycoma Longifolia

Interacts with 248 drugs

Eurycoma longifolia (tongkat ali) is a Southeast Asian herb most popular for supporting testosterone, libido, and male fertility, with some small human studies suggesting possible benefits....

Read the full Eurycoma Longifolia monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Tribulus

Interacts with 259 drugs

Tribulus is a plant supplement most often marketed to boost libido, testosterone, and athletic performance, but the human evidence behind these claims is weak and inconsistent. It is general...

Read the full Tribulus monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Ashwagandha

Interacts with 1,372 drugs

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evidence is still limited. It is generally w...

Read the full Ashwagandha monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Grape

Interacts with 910 drugs

Grapes and grape products like grape seed extract contain antioxidant compounds such as resveratrol and proanthocyanidins that may support heart and blood vessel health. While the food is he...

Read the full Grape monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Panax Ginseng

Interacts with 1,130 drugs

Panax ginseng is a popular traditional herb used to boost energy, ease stress, and support overall wellness, though scientific evidence is mixed and mostly preliminary. It is generally well...

Read the full Panax Ginseng monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Functional Female's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 195 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Diindolylmethane 14 references
  1. Natl Inst Health, Natl Inst Environmental Health Sci. Indole-3-carbinol. Available at: http://ntp-server.niehs.nih.gov.
  2. Balk JL. Indole-3-carbinol for cancer prevention. Altern Med Alert 2000; 3:105-7.
  3. Riby JE, Chang GHF, Firestone GL, Bjeldanes LF. Ligand-independent activation of estrogen receptor function by 3,3'-diindolylmethane in human breast cancer cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2000;60:167-77. PubMed
  4. Lake BG, Tredger JM, Renwick AB, et al. 3'3-diindolylmethane induces CYP1A2 in cultured precision-cut human liver slices. Xenobiotica 1998;28:803-11. PubMed
  5. Dalessandri, K. M., Firestone, G. L., Fitch, M. D., Bradlow, H. L., and Bjeldanes, L. F. Pilot study: effect of 3,3'-diindolylmethane supplements on urinary hormone metabolites in postmenopausal women with a history of early-stage breast cancer. Nutr Canc PubMed
  6. Reed, G. A., Arneson, D. W., Putnam, W. C., Smith, H. J., Gray, J. C., Sullivan, D. K., Mayo, M. S., Crowell, J. A., and Hurwitz, A. Single-dose and multiple-dose administration of indole-3-carbinol to women: pharmacokinetics based on 3,3'-diindolylmetha
  7. Reed, G. A., Sunega, J. M., Sullivan, D. K., Gray, J. C., Mayo, M. S., Crowell, J. A., and Hurwitz, A. Single-dose pharmacokinetics and tolerability of absorption-enhanced 3,3'-diindolylmethane in healthy subjects. Cancer Epidemiol.Biomarkers Prev. 2008; PubMed
  8. Del Priore G., Gudipudi, D. K., Montemarano, N., Restivo, A. M., Malanowska-Stega, J., and Arslan, A. A. Oral diindolylmethane (DIM): pilot evaluation of a nonsurgical treatment for cervical dysplasia. Gynecol.Oncol. 2010;116(3):464-467. PubMed
  9. Heath, E. I., Heilbrun, L. K., Li, J., Vaishampayan, U., Harper, F., Pemberton, P., and Sarkar, F. H. A phase I dose-escalation study of oral BR-DIM (BioResponse 3,3'- Diindolylmethane) in castrate-resistant, non-metastatic prostate cancer. Am.J.Transl.R
  10. Jellinck, P. H., Forkert, P. G., Riddick, D. S., Okey, A. B., Michnovicz, J. J., and Bradlow, H. L. Ah receptor binding properties of indole carbinols and induction of hepatic estradiol hydroxylation. Biochem.Pharmacol. 3-9-1993;45(5):1129-1136. PubMed
  11. Bui PV, Moualla M, Upson DJ. A Possible Association of Diindolylmethane with Pulmonary Embolism and Deep Venous Thrombosis. Case Rep Med. 2016;2016:7527098. PubMed
  12. Castañon A, Tristram A, Mesher D, Powell N, Beer H, Ashman S, Rieck G, Fielder H, Fiander A, Sasieni P. Effect of diindolylmethane supplementation on low-grade cervical cytological abnormalities: double-blind, randomised, controlled trial. Br J Cancer. 20 PubMed
  13. Le TM, Sanders CJ, van de Corput L, van Erpecum KJ, Röckmann H. Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms caused by the dietary supplement diindolylmethane. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2016 Jan-Feb;4(1):175-6. PubMed
  14. Pence ST, Mehta K, Crum-Bailey J. The Serious Side of Supplements: An Ischemic Stroke in a Healthy 38-year-old Female. Mil Med 2022. PubMed

See these in context on the Diindolylmethane monograph →

Stinging Nettle 23 references
  1. Monographs on the medicinal uses of plant drugs. Exeter, UK: European Scientific Co-op Phytother, 1997.
  2. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
  3. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  4. Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician's Guide to Herbal Medicine. Terry C. Telger, transl. 3rd ed. Berlin, GER: Springer, 1998.
  5. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  6. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  7. Mittman P. Randomized, double-blind study of freeze-dried Urtica dioica in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Planta Med 1990;56:44-7.
  8. Vontobel HP, Herzog R, Rutishauser G, Kres H. [Results of a double-blind study on the effectiveness of ERU (extractum radicis Urticae) capsules in conservative treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia]. (Abstract). Urologe A 1985;24:49-51.
  9. Randall C, Randall H, Dobbs F, et al. Randomized controlled trial of nettle sting for treatment of base-of-thumb pain. J R Soc Med 2000;93:305-9. PubMed
  10. Caliskaner Z, Karaayvaz M, Ozturk S. Misuse of a herb: stinging nettle (Urtica urens) induced severe tongue oedema. Complement Ther Med 2004;12:57-8. PubMed
  11. Krzeski, T., Kazon, M., Borkowski, A., Witeska, A., and Kuczera, J. Combined extracts of Urtica dioica and Pygeum africanum in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: double-blind comparison of two doses. Clin Ther 1993;15(6):1011-1020.
  12. Randall, C., Meethan, K., Randall, H., and Dobbs, F. Nettle sting of Urtica dioica for joint pain--an exploratory study of this complementary therapy. Complement Ther Med 1999;7(3):126-131. PubMed
  13. Tahri, A., Yamani, S., Legssyer, A., Aziz, M., Mekhfi, H., Bnouham, M., and Ziyyat, A. Acute diuretic, natriuretic and hypotensive effects of a continuous perfusion of aqueous extract of Urtica dioica in the rat. J Ethnopharmacol 2000;73(1-2):95-100. PubMed
  14. Sahin, M., Yilmaz, H., Gursoy, A., Demirel, A. N., Tutuncu, N. B., and Guvener, N. D. Gynaecomastia in a man and hyperoestrogenism in a woman due to ingestion of nettle (Urtica dioica). N.Z.Med.J. 2007;120(1265):U2803.
  15. Randall, C., Dickens, A., White, A., Sanders, H., Fox, M., and Campbell, J. Nettle sting for chronic knee pain: a randomised controlled pilot study. Complement Ther.Med. 2008;16(2):66-72. PubMed
  16. Rayburn, K., Fleischbein, E., Song, J., Allen, B., Kundert, M., Leiter, C., and Bush, T. Stinging nettle cream for osteoarthritis. Altern.Ther.Health Med. 2009;15(4):60-61.
  17. Oliver, F., Amon, E. U., Breathnach, A., Francis, D. M., Sarathchandra, P., Black, A. K., and Greaves, M. W. Contact urticaria due to the common stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)-- histological, ultrastructural and pharmacological studies. Clin Exp Dermato PubMed
  18. Kulze, A. and Greaves, M. Contact urticaria caused by stinging nettles. Br.J Dermatol. 1988;119(2):269-270. PubMed
  19. Patten G. Medicinal plant review: Urtica. Aust J Med Herbalism 1993;5(1):5-13.
  20. Maor D, Little M. Skin contact with a stinging tree requiring intensive care unit admission. Contact Dermatitis. 2017 Nov;77(5):335-37. PubMed
  21. Easton L, Vaid S, Nagel AK, Venci JV, Fortuna RJ. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica): An Unusual Case of Galactorrhea. Am J Case Rep 2021;22:e933999. PubMed
  22. Niazi B, Ahmed K, Ahmed M, Ali S, Song K, Elias S. Drug-Induced Liver Injury from Herbal Liver Detoxification Tea. Case Rep Gastroenterol 2022;16(3):612-617. PubMed
  23. Nnamani I, Tolu-Akinnawo O, Dufera RR, Akintunde A, Maliakkal B. Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi/Giloy)-Induced Liver Injury: A Case Review. Cureus 2023;15(5):e39793. PubMed

See these in context on the Stinging Nettle monograph →

Cowhage 12 references
  1. McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
  2. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
  3. Anon. Epidemiological notes and reports: Mucuna pruriens-associated pruritus--New Jersey. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 1985;34:732-3.
  4. HP-200 in Parkinson's Disease study group. An alternative medicine treatment for Parkinson's disease: Results of a multicenter clinical trial. J Alt Comp Med 1995;1:249-55. DOI
  5. Infante ME, Perez AM, Simao MR, et al. Outbreak of acute toxic psychosis attributed to Mucuna pruriens. Lancet 1990;336:1129. PubMed
  6. Vaidya AB, Rajagopalan TG, Mankodi NA, et al. Treatment of Parkinson's disease with the cowhage plant-Mucuna pruriens Bak. Neurol India 1978;26:171-6.
  7. Vadivel V, Janardhanan K. Nutritional and anti-nutritional composition of velvet bean: an under-utilized food legume in south India. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2000;51:279-87. PubMed
  8. Akhtar MS, Qureshi AQ, Iqbal J. Antidiabetic evaluation of Mucuna pruriens, Linn seeds. J Pak Med Assoc 1990;40:147-50.
  9. Prakash, D., Niranjan, A., and Tewari, S. K. Some nutritional properties of the seeds of three Mucuna species. Int.J.Food Sci.Nutr. 2001;52(1):79-82.
  10. Vadivel, V. and Janardhanan, K. Nutritional and antinutritional characteristics of seven South Indian wild legumes. Plant Foods Hum.Nutr 2005;60(2):69-75. PubMed
  11. Creapure (Creatine Monohydrate). Toxicological Datasheet. Degussa BioActives. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/ohrms/DOCKETS/.../95s-0316-rpt0154-54-Ref-50-vol112.pdf.
  12. Pulikkalpura H, Kurup R, Mathew PJ, Baby S. Levodopa in Mucuna pruriens and its degradation. Sci Rep 2015;5:11078. PubMed

See these in context on the Cowhage monograph →

Eurycoma Longifolia 4 references
  1. Salman SA, Amrah S, Wahab MS, et al. Modification of propranolol's bioavailability by Eurycoma longifolia water-based extract. J Clin Pharm Ther 2010;35:691-6. PubMed
  2. Tambi MI, Imran MK, Henkel RR. Standardised water-soluble extract of Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat ali, as testosterone booster for managing men with late-onset hypogonadism? Andrologia 2011 Jun 15. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01168.x. [Epub ahead of pri PubMed
  3. Han YM, Kim IS, Rehman SU, Choe K, Yoo HH. In vitro evaluation of the effects of Eurycoma longifolia extract on CYP-mediated drug metabolism. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2015;2015:631329.
  4. Chinnappan SM, George A, Pandey P, Narke G, Choudhary YK. Effect of Eurycoma longifolia standardised aqueous root extract-Physta ® on testosterone levels and quality of life in ageing male subjects: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicent

See these in context on the Eurycoma Longifolia monograph →

Tribulus 10 references
  1. Sharifi AM, Darabi R, Akbarloo N. Study of antihypertensive mechanism of Tribulus terrestris in 2K1C hypertensive rats: role of tissue ACE activity. Life Sci 2003;73:2963-71. PubMed
  2. Walker D, Bird A, Flora T, O'Sullivan B. Some effects of feeding Tribulus terrestris, Ipomoea lonchophylla and the seed of Abelmoschus ficulneus on fetal development and the outcome of pregnancy in sheep. Reprod Fertil Dev 1992;4:135-44. PubMed
  3. Al-Ali M, Wahbi S, Twaij H, Al-Badr A. Tribulus terrestris: preliminary study of its diuretic and contractile effects and comparison with Zea mays. J Ethnopharmacol 2003;85:257-60. PubMed
  4. Tabakova, P., Dimitrov, M., Ognyanov, K., and et al. Clinical study of Tribestan in females with endocrine sterility. Documentation for Registration (unpublished) 1999.
  5. Akhtari E, Raisi F, Keshavarz M, et al. Tribulus terrestris for treatment of sexual dysfunction in women: randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. Daru 2014;22:40. PubMed
  6. Ryan M, Lazar I, Nadasdy GM, et al. Acute kidney injury and hyperbilirubinemia in a young male after ingestion of Tribulus terrestris. Clin Nephrol 2015;83(3):177-83. PubMed
  7. Postigo S, Lima SM, Yamada SS, et al. Assessment of the effects of Tribulus terrestris on sexual function of menopausal women. Rev Bras Ginecol Obstet 2016;38(3):140-6. PubMed
  8. Talasaz AH, Abbasi MR, Abkhiz S, Dashti-Khavidaki S. Tribulus terrestris-induced severe nephrotoxicity in a young healthy male. Nephrol Dial Tranplant 2010;25(11):3792-3. PubMed
  9. Samani NB, Jokar A, Soveid M, Heydari M, Mosavat SH. Efficacy of the hydroalcoholic extract of Tribulus terrestris on the serum glucose and lipid profile of women with diabetes mellitus: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Evid
  10. Siddiqui MA, Itrat M, Mobeen A, Khan MI. Efficacy of khar-i-khasak (Tribulus terrestris Linn.) in prehypertension: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Complement Integr Med. 2021.

See these in context on the Tribulus monograph →

Ashwagandha 32 references
  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Upton R, ed. Ashwagandha Root (Withania somnifera): Analytical, quality control, and therapuetic monograph. Santa Cruz, CA: American Herbal Pharmacopoeia 2000:1-25.
  3. Davis L, Kuttan G. Effect of Withania somnifera on cyclophosphamide-induced urotoxicity. Cancer Lett 2000;148:9-17. PubMed
  4. Davis L, Kuttan G. Suppressive effect of cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity by Withania somnifera extract in mice. J Ethnopharmacol 1998;62:209-14. PubMed
  5. Mishra LC, Singh BB, Dagenais S. Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review. Altern Med Rev 2000;5:334-46. DOI
  6. Andallu B, Radhika B. Hypoglycemic, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic effect of winter cherry (Withania somnifera, Dunal) root. Indian J Exp Biol 2000;38:607-9.
  7. Kulkarni RR, Patki PS, Jog VP, et al. Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. J Ethnopharmacol 1991;33:91-5. PubMed
  8. Ahumada F, Aspee F, Wikman G, Hancke J. Withania somnifera exract. Its effects on arterial blood pressure in anaesthetized dogs. Phytother Res 1991;5:111-14.
  9. Panda S, Kar A. Withania somnifera and Bauhinia purpurea in the regulation of circulating thyroid hormone concentrations in female mice. J Ethnopharmacol 1999;67:233-39. PubMed
  10. Panda S, Kar A. Changes in thyroid hormone concentrations after administration of ashwagandha root extract to adult male mice. J Pharm Pharmacol 1998;50:1065-68. PubMed
  11. Sehgal, V. N., Verma, P., and Bhattacharya, S. N. Fixed-drug eruption caused by ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): a widely used Ayurvedic drug. Skinmed. 2012;10(1):48-49.
  12. Agnihotri AP, Sontakke SD, Thawani VR, Saoji A, Goswami VS. Effects of Withania somnifera in patients of schizophrenia: a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled pilot trial study. Indian J Pharmacol. 2013;45(4):417-8. PubMed
  13. Biswal BM, Sulaiman SA, Ismail HC, Zakaria H, Musa KI. Effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) on the development of chemotherapy-induced fatigue and quality of life in breast cancer patients. Integr Cancer Ther. 2013;12(4):312-22.
  14. Sharma AK, Basu I, Singh S. Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha root extract in subclinical hypothyroid patients: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Altern Complement Med. 2018 Mar;24(3):243-248. PubMed
  15. Durg S, Bavage S, Shivaram SB. Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of scientific evidence from experimental research to clinical application. Phytother Res. 2020;34(5):1041-1059.
  16. Björnsson HK, Björnsson ES, Avula B, et al. Ashwagandha-induced liver injury: A case series from Iceland and the US Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network. Liver Int. 2020;40(4):825-829. PubMed
  17. Tharakan A, Shukla H, Benny IR, Tharakan M, George L, Koshy S. Immunomodulatory Effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) Extract-A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial with an Open Label Extension on Healthy Participants. J Clin Med 2021;1 PubMed
  18. Ireland PJ, Hardy T, Burt AD, Donnelly MC. Drug-induced hepatocellular injury due to herbal supplement ashwagandha. J R Coll Physicians Edinb. 2021;51(4):363-365. PubMed
  19. Kamal HI, Patel K, Brdak A, Heffernan J, Ahmad N. Ashwagandha as a unique cause of thyrotoxicosis presenting with supraventricular tachycardia. Cureus. 2022 Mar 25;14(3):e23494. PubMed
  20. Suryawanshi G, Abdallah M, Thomson M, Desai N, Chauhan A, Lim N. Ashwagandha-Associated Acute Liver Failure Requiring Liver Transplantation. Am J Ther 2023;30(1):e80-e83. PubMed
  21. Pusec CM, Wolsky R, Llerena C, Sura P. A Case of Supplement-Induced Hepatitis. Cureus 2022;14(10):e30433. PubMed
  22. Ajgaonkar A, Jain M, Debnath K. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract for Improvement of Sexual Health in Healthy Women: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. Cureus 2022;14(10):e30787. PubMed
  23. Haron MH, Dale O, Martin K, et al. Evaluation of the Herb-Drug Interaction Potential of Commonly Used Botanicals on the US Market with Regard to PXR- and AhR-Mediated Influences on CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. J Diet Suppl 2022. PubMed
  24. Lubarska M, Halasinski P, Hryhorowicz S, et al. Liver Dangers of Herbal Products: A Case Report of Ashwagandha-Induced Liver Injury. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023;20(5):3921. PubMed
  25. Tóth M, Benedek AE, Longerich T, Seitz HK. Ashwagandha-induced acute liver injury: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2023;11(3):e7078.
  26. Bokan G, Glamocanin T, Mavija Z, et al. Herb-Induced Liver Injury by Ayurvedic Ashwagandha as Assessed for Causality by the Updated RUCAM: An Emerging Cause. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023;16(8):1129. PubMed
  27. Patel PA, Sanborn E, Then R, Williams DM. Recurrent Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome: A Report of Two Cases. Cureus 2023;15(8):e42992. PubMed
  28. Majeed M, Nagabhushanam K, Murali A, Vishwanathan DT, Mamidala RV, Mundkur L. A Standardized Withania somniferra (Linn.) Root Extract with Piperine Alleviates the Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression by Increasing Serotonin Levels: A Double-Blind, Randomize
  29. Philips CA, Valsan A, Theruvath AH, et al. Ashwagandha-induced liver injury-A case series from India and literature review. Hepatol Commun 2023;7(10):e0270. PubMed
  30. Hayashi M, Hamada H, Azuma SI, Hayashi K. Painless Thyroiditis by Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha). Cureus 2024;16(3):e55352. PubMed
  31. Vazirani S, Kothari A, Fujimoto J, Gomez M. Supplements Are Not a Synonym for Safe: Suspected Liver Injury From Ashwagandha. Fed Pract 2023;40(9):315-319. PubMed
  32. Patel M, Newell R, Hillier M, Ramalingam R. Herbal remedies as a potential cause of hypoadrenalism. Br J Hosp Med (Lond) 2024;85(6):1-4. PubMed

See these in context on the Ashwagandha monograph →

Grape 34 references
  1. Kiesewetter H, Koscielny J, Kalus U, et al. Efficacy of orally administered extract of red vine leaf AS 195 (folia vitis viniferae) in chronic venous insufficiency (stages I-II). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Arzneimittelforschung
  2. Xiao Dong S, Zhi Ping Z, Zhong Xiao W, et al. Possible enhancement of the first-pass metabolism of phenacetin by ingestion of grape juice in Chinese subjects. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1999;48:638-40. PubMed
  3. Vaswani SK, Hamilton RG, Carey RN, et al. Anaphylaxis recurrent urticaria and angioedema from grape hypersensitivity. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1998;101:S31.
  4. Chevallier A. The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. London, UK: Dorling Kindersley, Ltd., 1996.
  5. Bernstein DI, Bernstein CK, Deng C, et al. Evaluation of the clinical efficacy and safety of grapeseed extract in the treatment of fall seasonal allergic rhinitis: a pilot study. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2002;88:272-8.. PubMed
  6. Greenblatt DJ, von Moltke LL, Perloff ES, et al. Interaction of flurbiprofen with cranberry juice, grape juice, tea, and fluconazole: in vitro and clinical studies. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2006;79:125-33. PubMed
  7. Ward NC, Hodgson JM, Croft KD, et al. The combination of vitamin C and grape-seed polyphenols increases blood pressure: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Hypertens 2005;23:427-34.. PubMed
  8. Ray, S. D., Parikh, H., Hickey, E., Bagchi, M., and Bagchi, D. Differential effects of IH636 grape seed proanthocyanidin extract and a DNA repair modulator 4-aminobenzamide on liver microsomal cytochrome 4502E1-dependent aniline hydroxylation. Mol Cell B PubMed
  9. O'Byrne, D. J., Devaraj, S., Grundy, S. M., and Jialal, I. Comparison of the antioxidant effects of Concord grape juice flavonoids alpha-tocopherol on markers of oxidative stress in healthy adults. Am J Clin.Nutr. 2002;76(6):1367-1374.
  10. Schaefer, E., Peil, H., Ambrosetti, L., and Petrini, O. Oedema protective properties of the red vine leaf extract AS 195 (Folia vitis viniferae) in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. A 6-week observational clinical trial. Arzneimittelforschun PubMed
  11. Nishikawa, M., Ariyoshi, N., Kotani, A., Ishii, I., Nakamura, H., Nakasa, H., Ida, M., Nakamura, H., Kimura, N., Kimura, M., Hasegawa, A., Kusu, F., Ohmori, S., Nakazawa, K., and Kitada, M. Effects of continuous ingestion of green tea or grape seed extra
  12. de Lange, D. W., Scholman, W. L., Kraaijenhagen, R. J., Akkerman, J. W., and van de Wiel, A. Alcohol and polyphenolic grape extract inhibit platelet adhesion in flowing blood. Eur.J Clin.Invest 2004;34(12):818-824. PubMed
  13. Samet, J. M. and Coultas, D. B. Reduced forced vital capacity in California grape workers. What does it mean? Am Rev.Respir.Dis 1992;145(2 Pt 1):255-256. PubMed
  14. Gamsky, T. E., McCurdy, S. A., Samuels, S. J., and Schenker, M. B. Reduced FVC among California grape workers. Am Rev.Respir.Dis 1992;145(2 Pt 1):257-262. PubMed
  15. de Lange, D. W., Verhoef, S., Gorter, G., Kraaijenhagen, R. J., van de Wiel, A., and Akkerman, J. W. Polyphenolic grape extract inhibits platelet activation through PECAM-1: an explanation for the French paradox. Alcohol Clin.Exp.Res 2007;31(8):1308-1314 PubMed
  16. Etheridge, A. S., Black, S. R., Patel, P. R., So, J., and Mathews, J. M. An in vitro evaluation of cytochrome P450 inhibition and P-glycoprotein interaction with goldenseal, Ginkgo biloba, grape seed, milk thistle, and ginseng extracts and their constitu
  17. Krikorian, R., Nash, T. A., Shidler, M. D., Shukitt-Hale, B., and Joseph, J. A. Concord grape juice supplementation improves memory function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Br J Nutr. 2010;103(5):730-734. PubMed
  18. Ingersoll, G. L., Wasilewski, A., Haller, M., Pandya, K., Bennett, J., He, H., Hoffmire, C., and Berry, C. Effect of concord grape juice on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: results of a pilot study. Oncol.Nurs.Forum 2010;37(2):213-221. PubMed
  19. Oliveira-Freitas, V. L., Dalla, Costa T., Manfro, R. C., Cruz, L. B., and Schwartsmann, G. Influence of purple grape juice in cyclosporine bioavailability. J Ren Nutr. 2010;20(5):309-313. PubMed
  20. Hollis, J. H., Houchins, J. A., Blumberg, J. B., and Mattes, R. D. Effects of concord grape juice on appetite, diet, body weight, lipid profile, and antioxidant status of adults. J Am Coll.Nutr. 2009;28(5):574-582. PubMed
  21. Dohadwala, M. M., Hamburg, N. M., Holbrook, M., Kim, B. H., Duess, M. A., Levit, A., Titas, M., Chung, W. B., Vincent, F. B., Caiano, T. L., Frame, A. A., Keaney, J. F., Jr., and Vita, J. A. Effects of Concord grape juice on ambulatory blood pressure in
  22. Rabe, E., Stucker, M., Esperester, A., Schafer, E., and Ottillinger, B. Efficacy and tolerability of a red-vine-leaf extract in patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency--results of a double-blind placebo-controlled study. Eur.J Vasc.Endovasc. PubMed
  23. Trotta, M., Cesaretti, M., Conzi, R., Derchi, L. E., and Borgonovo, G. Elderly male with mesogastric pain. Small bowel obstruction caused by an intact fresh grape. Ann.Emerg.Med 2011;58(4):e1-e2. PubMed
  24. McCurdy, S. A., Wiggins, P., Schenker, M. B., Munn, S., Shaieb, A. M., Weinbaum, Z., Goldsmith, D., McGillis, S. T., Berman, B., and Samuels, S. Assessing dermatitis in epidemiologic studies: occupational skin disease among California grape and tomato ha
  25. Winter, C. K. and Kurtz, P. H. Factors influencing grape worker susceptibility to skin rashes. Bull.Environ.Contam Toxicol. 1985;35(3):418-426. PubMed
  26. Yamasaki, R., Dekio, S., and Jidoi, J. Contact dermatitis from grape bud. Contact Dermatitis 1985;12(4):226-227. PubMed
  27. Cox, J. and Grigg, M. Small bowel obstruction by an intact grape. J Am Geriatr.Soc 1986;34(7):550. PubMed
  28. Faircloth, D. E. and Robison, W. J. Obstruction of the sigmoid colon by grape seeds. JAMA 11-27-1981;246(21):2430. PubMed
  29. Marguerie, C. and Drouet, M. [Occupational eosinophilic lung in a grape grower: role of sulfites]. Allerg.Immunol.(Paris) 1995;27(5):163-167.
  30. Brito, FF., Martinez, A., Palacios, R., Mur, P., Gomez, E., Galindo, P. A., Borja, J., and Martinez, J. Rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma caused by vine pollen: a case report. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;103(2 Pt 1):262-266. PubMed
  31. Ras RT, Zock PL, Zebregs YE, et al. Effect of polyphenol-rich grape seed extract on ambulatory blood pressure in subjects with pre- and stage I hypertension. Br J Nutr 2013;110(12):2234-41. PubMed
  32. Berry AC, Nakshabendi R, Abidali H, et al. Adverse effects of grape seed extract supplement: A clinical case and long-term follow-up. J Diet Suppl. 2016;13(2):232-5. PubMed
  33. Martínez-Maqueda D, Zapatera B, Gallego-Narbón A, Vaquero MP, Saura-Calixto F, Pérez-Jiménez J. A 6-week supplementation with grape pomace to subjects at cardiometabolic risk ameliorates insulin sensitivity, without affecting other metabolic syndrome mark
  34. Moon SW, Shin YU, Cho H, Bae SH, Kim HK; and for the Mogen Study Group. Effect of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract on hard exudates in patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019;98(21):e15515. PubMed

See these in context on the Grape monograph →

Panax Ginseng 66 references
  1. Scaglione F, Cattaneo G, Alessandria M, Cogo R. Efficacy and safety of the standardized Ginseng extract G115 for potentiating vaccination against the influenza syndrome and protection against the common cold. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1996;22:65-72.
  2. Palmer BV, Montgomery AC, Monteiro JC, et al. Gin Seng and mastalgia [letter]. BMJ 1978;1:1284. PubMed
  3. Hopkins MP, Androff L, Benninghoff AS. Ginseng face cream and unexplained vaginal bleeding. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1988;159:1121-2. PubMed
  4. Greenspan EM. Ginseng and vaginal bleeding [letter]. JAMA 1983;249:2018.
  5. Gonzalez-Seijo JC, Ramos YM, Lastra I. Manic episode and ginseng: Report of a possible case. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1995;15:447-8.
  6. Dega H, Laporte JL, Frances C, et al. Ginseng as a cause of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Lancet 1996;347:1344.
  7. Hamid S, Rojter S, Vierling J. Protracted cholestatic hepatitis after the use of Prostata. Ann Intern Med 1997;127:169-70.
  8. Shader RI, Greenblatt DJ. Phenelzine and the dream machine-ramblings and reflections. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1985;5:65. PubMed
  9. Jones BD, Runikis AM. Interaction of ginseng with phenelzine. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1987;7:201-2. PubMed
  10. Janetzky K, Morreale AP. Probable interaction between warfarin and ginseng. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1997;54:692-3. PubMed
  11. Becker BN. Ginseng-induced diuretic resistance. JAMA 1996;276:606-7. PubMed
  12. Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA. Clinical assessment of potential cytochrome P450-mediated herb-drug interactions. AAPS Ann Mtg & Expo Indianapolis, IN: 2000; Oct 29 - Nov 2:presentation #3460.
  13. Park HJ, Lee JH, Song YB, Park KH. Effects of dietary supplementation of lipophilic fraction from Panax ginseng on cGMP and cAMP in rat platelets and on blood coagulation. Biol Pharm Bull 1996;19:1434-9. PubMed
  14. Zhu M, Chan KW, Ng LS, et al. Possible influences of ginseng on the pharmacodynamics of warfarin in rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:175-80.
  15. Choi HK, Jung GW, Moon KH, et al. Clinical study of SS-Cream in patients with lifelong premature ejaculation. Urology 2000;55:257-61. PubMed
  16. Shin HR, Kim JY, Yun TK, et al. The cancer-preventive potential of Panax ginseng: a review of human and experimental evidence. Cancer Causes Control 2000;11:565-76. PubMed
  17. Siegel RK. Ginseng Abuse Syndrome. JAMA 1979;241:1614-5. DOI
  18. Palop-Larrea V, Gonzalvez-Perales JL, Catalan-Oliver C, et al. Metrorrhagia and ginseng. Ann Pharmacother 2000;34:1347-8. PubMed
  19. Caron MF, Hotsko AL, Robertson S, et al. Electrocardiographic and hemodynamic effects of Panax ginseng. Ann Pharmacother 2002;36:758-63..
  20. Eagon PK, Elm MS, Hunter DS, et al. Medicinal herbs: modulation of estrogen action. Era of Hope Mtg, Dept Defense; Breast Cancer Res Prog, Atlanta, GA 2000;Jun 8-11.
  21. Chan LY, Chiu PY, Lau TK. An in-vitro study of ginsenoside Rb(1)-induced teratogenicity using a whole rat embryo culture model. Hum Reprod 2003;18:2166-8..
  22. Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA, et al. Cytochrome P450 phenotypic ratios for predicting herb-drug interactions in humans. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2002;72:276-87.. PubMed
  23. Wiklund IK, Mattsson LA, Lindgren R, et al. Effects of a standardized ginseng extract on quality of life and physiological parameters in symptomatic postmenopausal women: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res 1999;19:89-99..
  24. Hammond TG, Whitworth JA. Adverse reactions to ginseng [letter]. Med J Aust 1981;1:492.. PubMed
  25. Punnonen R, Lukola A. Oestrogen-like effect of ginseng. Br Med J 1980;281:1110.. PubMed
  26. Lee YJ, Jin YR, Lim WC, et al. Ginsenoside-Rb1 acts as a weak phytoestrogen in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Arch Pharm Res 2003;26:58-63.. PubMed
  27. Xu QF, Fang XL, Chen DF. Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of ginsenoside Rb1 and Rg1 from Panax notoginseng in rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2003;84:187-92. PubMed
  28. Jiang X, Williams KM, Liauw WS, et al. Effect of St John's wort and ginseng on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of warfarin in healthy subjects. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2004;57:592-9. PubMed
  29. Yun YP, Do JH, Ko SR, et al. Effects of Korean red ginseng and its mixed prescription on the high molecular weight dextran-induced blood stasis in rats and human platelet aggregation. J Ethnopharmacol 2001;77:259-64. PubMed
  30. Wiwanikit V, Taungjarwinai W. A case report of suspected ginseng allergy. Medscape General Medicine 6 (3), 2004. Available at: www.medscape.com/viewarticle/482833 (Accessed 17 September 2004).
  31. Kabalak AA, Soyal OB, Urfalioglu A, et al. Menometrorrhagia and tachyarrhythmia after using oral and topical ginseng. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2004;13:830-3. PubMed
  32. Jiang X, Blair EY, McLachlan AJ. Investigation of the effects of herbal medicines on warfarin response in healthy subjects: a population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling approach. J Clin Pharmacol 2006;46:1370-8. PubMed
  33. Lee SH, Ahn YM, Ahn SY, et al. Interaction between warfarin and Panax ginseng in ischemic stroke patients. J Altern Complement Med 2008;14:715-721.
  34. Smith M, Lin KM, and Zheng YP. PIII-89 an open trial of nifedipine-herb interactions: Nifedipine with St. John's wort, ginseng or ginkgo biloba. Clin Pharm Ther 2001;69:P86.
  35. Mateo-Carrasco, H., Galvez-Contreras, M. C., Fernandez-Gines, F. D., and Nguyen, T. V. Elevated liver enzymes resulting from an interaction between Raltegravir and Panax ginseng: a case report and brief review. Drug Metabol.Drug Interact. 2012;27(3):171-1
  36. Oh, K. J., Chae, M. J., Lee, H. S., Hong, H. D., and Park, K. Effects of Korean red ginseng on sexual arousal in menopausal women: placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover clinical study. J Sex Med 2010;7(4 Pt 1):1469-1477. PubMed
  37. Kim, T. H., Jeon, S. H., Hahn, E. J., Paek, K. Y., Park, J. K., Youn, N. Y., and Lee, H. L. Effects of tissue-cultured mountain ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) extract on male patients with erectile dysfunction. Asian J Androl 2009;11(3):356-361. PubMed
  38. Hu, Z., Yang, X., Ho, P. C., Chan, S. Y., Heng, P. W., Chan, E., Duan, W., Koh, H. L., and Zhou, S. Herb-drug interactions: a literature review. Drugs 2005;65(9):1239-1282. PubMed
  39. Zhang, R., Jie, J., Zhou, Y., Cao, Z., and Li, W. Long-term effects of Panax ginseng on disposition of fexofenadine in rats in vivo. Am J Chin Med 2009;37(4):657-667.
  40. Lee, Y. H., Lee, B. K., Choi, Y. J., Yoon, I. K., Chang, B. C., and Gwak, H. S. Interaction between warfarin and Korean red ginseng in patients with cardiac valve replacement. Int J Cardiol. 11-19-2010;145(2):275-276. PubMed
  41. Liu, P., Yin, H., Xu, Y., Zhang, Z., Chen, K., and Li, Y. Effects of ginsenoside Rg1 on postimplantation rat and mouse embryos cultured in vitro. Toxicol In Vitro 2006;20(2):234-238. PubMed
  42. Liu, P., Xu, Y., Yin, H., Wang, J., Chen, K., and Li, Y. Developmental toxicity research of ginsenoside Rb1 using a whole mouse embryo culture model. Birth Defects Res B Dev Reprod Toxicol 2005;74(2):207-209. PubMed
  43. Gurley, B. J., Gardner, S. F., Hubbard, M. A., Williams, D. K., Gentry, W. B., Cui, Y., and Ang, C. Y. Clinical assessment of effects of botanical supplementation on cytochrome P450 phenotypes in the elderly: St John's wort, garlic oil, Panax ginseng and DOI
  44. Wesnes KA, Faleni RA, Hefting NR, and et al. The cognitive, subjective, and physical effects of a Ginkgo biloba/Panax ginseng combination in healthy volunteers with neurasthenic complaints. Psychopharmacol Bull 1997;33(4):677-683.
  45. Martínez-Mir I, Rubio E, Morales-Olivas FJ, Palop-Larrea V. Transient ischemic attack secondary to hypertensive crisis related to Panax ginseng. Ann Pharmacother 2004;38(11):1970.
  46. Kakisaka Y, Ohara T, Tozawa H, Sato S, Katayama S, Suzuki T, Hino-Fukuyo N, Kure S. Panax ginseng: a newly identified cause of gynecomastia. Tohoku J Exp Med 2012;228(2):143-5. PubMed
  47. Malati CY, Robertson SM, Hunt JD, Chairez C, Alfaro RM, Kovacs JA, Penzak SR. Influence of Panax ginseng on cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) activity in healthy participants. J Clin Pharmacol 2012;52(6):932-9.
  48. Sen A. Orobuccolingual dyskinesia after long-term use of black cohosh and ginseng. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2013 Fall;25(4):E50. PubMed
  49. Oh MR, Park SH, Kim SY, Back HI, Kim MG, Jeon JY, Ha KC, Na WT, Cha YS, Park BH, Park TS, Chae SW. Postprandial glucose-lowering effects of fermented red ginseng in subjects with impaired fasting glucose or type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, pla
  50. Kim HG, Cho JH, Yoo SR, Lee JS, Han JM, Lee NH, Ahn YC, Son CG. Antifatigue effects of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. PLoS One 2013;8(4):e61271. PubMed
  51. Rhee MY, Kim YS, Bae JH, Nah DY, Kim YK, Lee MM, Kim HY. Effect of Korean red ginseng on arterial stiffness in subjects with hypertension. J Altern Complement Med 2011;17(1):45-9.
  52. Bilgi N, Bell K, Ananthakrishnan AN, Atallah E. Imatinib and Panax ginseng: a potential interaction resulting in liver toxicity. Ann Pharmacother 2010;44(5):926-8.
  53. Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, et al. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2017 Jan;28(1):4-15. PubMed
  54. Shah SA, Occiano A, Nguyen TA, et al. Electrocardiographic and blood pressure effects of energy drinks and panax ginseng in healthy volunteers: a randomized clinical trial. Int J Cardiol. 2016 Sep 1;218:318-23. PubMed
  55. Yang L, Li CL, Tsai TH. Preclinical Herb-Drug Pharmacokinetic Interaction of Panax ginseng Extract and Selegiline in Freely Moving Rats. ACS Omega. 2020;5(9):4682-4688.
  56. Shen L, Gwak SR, Joo JC, et al. Effectiveness and safety of Panax ginseng extract on hepatic dysfunction: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2020;2020:2689565.
  57. Kim Y, Jo JJ, Cho P, et al. Characterization of red ginseng-drug interaction by CYP3A activity increased in high dose administration in mice. Biopharm Drug Dispos. 2020;41(7):295-306. PubMed
  58. Bessell E, Fuller NR, Markovic TP, et al. Effects of a-cyclodextrin on cholesterol control and hydrolyzed ginseng extract on glycemic control in people with prediabetes: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Netw Open 2020 Nov 2;3(11):e2023491.
  59. Lee SR, Hur K, Cho S. Subcorneal pustular dermatosis as a cause of pityriasis amiantacea in a young child. JAAD Case Rep 2021;18:40-44. PubMed
  60. Liu J, Chang D, Cordato D, et al. A pilot randomized controlled trial of WeiNaoKang (SaiLuoTong) in treating vascular dementia. Aging Med (Milton). 2022;5(4):246-256. PubMed
  61. Shin D, Yoon BI, Bang S, et al. Safety and Efficacy Assessment of Red Ginseng Oil (RXGIN) in Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. World J Mens Health 2023. PubMed
  62. Shin MB, Kim SA, Lee S, et al. Pharmacokinetic Comparison of Ginsenosides between Fermented and Non-Fermented Red Ginseng in Healthy Volunteers. Pharmaceutics 2022;14(12):2807. PubMed
  63. Gao J, Shi J, Ma X, et al. Effects of ginseng berry saponins from panax ginseng on glucose metabolism of patients with prediabetes: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. Phytomedicine 2024;132:155842. PubMed
  64. Cho SK, Song YJ, Han JY, Kim HW, Nam E, Sung YK. Effectiveness of Korean Red Ginseng on fatigue in patients with rheumatic diseases: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Korean J Intern Med 2024;39(4):680-690. PubMed
  65. Arabi SM, Shahraki-Jazinaki M, Nayyerabadi M, et al. The Effect of Ginseng Supplementation on Lipid Profile: GRADE-assessed Systematic Review and Dose-response Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Curr Pharm Des 2024;30(26):2047-205. PubMed
  66. Zeng X, Zhou X, Zhang A, et al. Pityriasis Rosea-Like Eruption following anti-fatigue traditional herbs: Aconitum carmichaelii Debx and Panax Ginseng suspected. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024;24(1):248. PubMed

See these in context on the Panax Ginseng monograph →

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

Keep exploring
Supplement interaction checker › Check any supplement or product against your medications Drug–drug interactions › Check two or more of your medications against each other Browse medications A–Z › Every drug we've checked against herbs & supplements NDC & pricing lookup › Find a drug’s NDCs, packaging and costs Ask a pharmacist › Free, personal answer from our licensed team