Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Herbal Calm Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Genestra Brands

Herbal Calm label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Herbal Calm 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: Moderate

Herbal Calm is a dietary supplement by Genestra Brands with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for digestive upset and bloating, infant colic, menstrual cramps.Based on those ingredients, 1,025 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract, Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) aerial parts extract, Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare subsp. var. dulce) 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 Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands — 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 Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands

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 Aug 6, 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 4 of its 4 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Herbal Calm contains 4 active herbal extracts. Sweet fennel seed extract is traditionally used for digestive comfort and may help with menstrual cramping.

Lemon balm herb top extract is included for its calming and stress-relieving properties. Passionflower aerial parts extract is used to ease anxiety and support sleep.

Valerian root extract rounds out the blend as a well-known sleep and relaxation aid. The capsule also contains inactive ingredients—cellulose, hypromellose, ascorbyl palmitate, and silica—which are binders, film-coat, preservative, and anti-caking agents.

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: calm and sleep support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Anxiety, Insomnia, Stress, Restless legs syndrome (RLS), nervousness, sleep disturbance — and 1 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Lemon Balm is rated "Possibly Effective" for Stress (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Valerian is rated "Possibly Effective" for Insomnia.
  • Also on file: Passion Flower is rated "Possibly Effective" for Pre-procedural anxiety, Insomnia.

Fennel is possibly effective for menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), but evidence for its use in anxiety and bronchitis is insufficient. Lemon balm is possibly effective for cold sores (herpes labialis), stress relief, and mood support (depression).

Passionflower is possibly effective for insomnia and pre-procedural anxiety but lacks solid evidence for ADHD or benzodiazepine withdrawal. Valerian is possibly effective for insomnia and shows some promise for pre-procedural anxiety, though evidence for restless leg syndrome, stress, and menstrual cramps is insufficient.

Overall, this blend is best suited to people looking for calming and sleep support rather than specific symptom treatment.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Fennel Lemon Balm Passion Flower Valerian

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 4 of the 4 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 4 of 4.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 4 of 4.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

These herbs are generally well tolerated for short-term use in healthy adults. The most common side effects across the blend are drowsiness, dizziness, and mild gastrointestinal discomfort.

Fennel may rarely cause photosensitivity (sun sensitivity) or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, and very rarely seizures. Valerian can cause vivid dreams, headache, and mental slowness; if you take it long-term and want to stop, taper your dose slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and insomnia.

Case reports associate passionflower with cardiac effects (prolonged QT interval and irregular heartbeat) at very high doses. Regarding pregnancy, fennel and passionflower are rated possibly unsafe due to limited safety data and possible hormone effects; lemon balm and valerian lack enough safety data and should be discussed with your doctor before use in pregnancy.

For breastfeeding, fennel and passionflower are not well studied at medicinal doses; lemon balm and valerian similarly have limited safety information—talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using while nursing.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Fennel Lemon Balm Passion Flower Valerian

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 4 of the 4 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Fennel, Lemon Balm, Valerian, Passion Flower.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs.
  • For scale: 1,026 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 Herbal Calm, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take any sedating drugs (like sleep aids, anxiety medications, or pain relievers with sedation), blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, thyroid hormone replacement, antibiotics (especially ciprofloxacin), cancer medications (especially tamoxifen), or any drug processed by the liver through CYP3A4, glucuronidation, or CYP2D6 pathways. Use the medication checker on this page to search your exact medications.

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. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Herbal Calm is a reasonable choice for someone looking for herbal support with sleep, anxiety, and everyday stress—but only if you're not taking sedating medications, blood thinners, birth control, thyroid hormone, or certain antibiotics and cancer drugs. Because this product interacts with a wide range of medications, check your prescriptions with the tool on this page and talk it over with your doctor or pharmacist before you start.

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

Assessment coverage: 4 of 4 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 25, 2020.

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 Herbal Calm, straight from the product label.

Brand Genestra Brands
Barcode (UPC) 883196152407
Net contents 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 25, 2020
DSLD ID 211304
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
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 Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands, 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:
3 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
3 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
20
UPC/BARCODE
883196152407
IngredientAmount% DV
Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare subsp. var. dulce) seed extract300 mg--
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) herb top extract150 mg--
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) aerial parts extract75 mg--
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract75 mg--

Other ingredients: Cellulose, Hypromellose, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Silica

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

Recommended Dose: Take 3 capsules daily 1 hour before bedtime or as recommended by your health professional.

Precautions

Warning: If you are allergic to anethole or plants of the Apiaceae/Carrot family, do not use.

If you are pregnant or lactating, have any health condition or are taking any medication, consult your health professional before use.

Consumption with alcohol, drugs or other supplements with sedative properties is not recommended. Some people may experience drowsiness. Exercise caution if operating heavy machinery, driving a motor vehicle or involved in activities requiring mental alertness. If hypersensitivity occurs, discontinue use.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Use only if safety seal is intact.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

General Statements

Contents may not fill package in order to accommodate required labeling. Please rely on stated quantity.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Formulation

Traditional support for restful sleep and relaxation

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

See for yourself

Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands label

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

Herbal Calm 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 Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands

These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size3 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container20 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.

Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare subsp. var. dulce) seed extract

Interacts with
740 drugs
300 mg per serving

Fennel is a Mediterranean herb widely used as a food and spice, and traditionally taken for digestive complaints, colic, and menstrual cramps. Some sm...

Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare subsp. var. dulce) seed extract monograph & interactions

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) herb top extract

Interacts with
264 drugs
150 mg per serving

Lemon balm is a gentle, lemon-scented mint-family herb traditionally used to ease stress, support sleep, and calm digestion, and topically for cold so...

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) herb top extract monograph & interactions

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) aerial parts extract

Interacts with
836 drugs
75 mg per serving

Passion flower is a traditional calming herb that many people use for anxiety and sleep. Early studies hint it may help with mild anxiety and restless...

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) aerial parts extract monograph & interactions

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract

Interacts with
902 drugs
75 mg per serving

Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some...

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Cellulose, Hypromellose, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Silica. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Herbal Calm?

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
1,025Drugs
943 Moderate 82 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract 902
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) aerial parts extract 836
Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare subsp. var. dulce) seed extract 740
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) herb top extract 264

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Herbal Calm interact with 1,025 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

4 of the 4 ingredients in Herbal Calm interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) aerial parts extract Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare subsp. var. dulce) seed extract Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) herb top extract

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Herbal Calm 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.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract6 drug types · 902 drugs

Alcohol (Ethanol)

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with alcohol.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might have an additive sedative effect when combined with alcohol. Excessive sedation has been reported in an alcohol-abusing individual who took valerian and Gingko biloba. However, the potential interaction between valerian and alcohol has been disputed in other research. Limited evidence suggests that a combination of valerian 160 mg and lemon balm 80 mg (Euvegal) does not cause further deterioration in reaction ability and reaction rate when taken with alcohol as compared to the effects of alcohol alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Alprazolam (Xanax)

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used with alprazolam. Also, valerian in high doses might modestly increase alprazolam levels, though this is not likely to be clinically significant.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might cause additive sedation when combined with alprazolam. Also, a small pharmacokinetic study shows that taking valerian extract 1000 mg daily (providing 11 mg valerenic acid) might increase alprazolam levels by about 19%. This might be due to valerian's mild inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Despite being statistically significant, this increase is not likely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cns Depressants

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Theoretically, concomitant use of valerian and drugs with sedative and anesthetic properties may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Glucuronidated Drugs

Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
In vitro research shows that methanolic valerian extract and valerenic acid might competitively inhibit UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 (UGT1A1) and UGT2B7.

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

Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian affects CYP2D6, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian is unlikely to affect the CYP2D6 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days did not affect the metabolism of dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of debrisoquine, an accepted CYP2D6 probe-substrate.

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

Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian extract might inhibit or induce CYP3A4, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian does not have a clinically significant effect on the CYP3A4 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of midazolam, an accepted CYP3A4 probe-substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days modestly increases levels of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 substrate, suggesting mild inhibition of CYP3A4. However, this mild inhibition is unlikely to be clinically relevant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) root extract full monograph & interactions

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) aerial parts extract3 drug types · 836 drugs

Cns Depressants

Concomitant use of passion flower with sedative drugs might cause additive effects and side effects.
Research in animals and humans shows that passion flower has sedative effects which can be additive when used with sedative medications like lorazepam.

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

Theoretically, passion flower might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that passion flower can induce CYP3A4 enzymes, albeit to a much lower degree than rifampin, a known CYP3A4 inducer.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide Substrates (Oatp)

Theoretically, passion flower might reduce the bioavailability of OATP2B1 and OATP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that the passion flower constituents apigenin and vitexin inhibit OATP2B1 and OATP1A2. This inhibition may be dose-dependent. One specific high-flavonoid passion flower extract (Valverde) seems to inhibit OATP2B1 and OATP1A2, while another extract with a lower flavonoid concentration (Arkocaps) shows less potent inhibition. OATPs are responsible for the uptake of drugs and other compounds into the body; however, the specific activities of OATP2B1 and OATP1A2 are not well characterized.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) aerial parts extract full monograph & interactions

Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare subsp. var. dulce) seed extract6 drug types · 740 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, fennel might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.

Animal research suggests that fennel oil has antithrombotic and antiplatelet effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)

Theoretically, fennel might decrease the levels and clinical effects of ciprofloxacin.

Animal research shows that fennel reduces ciprofloxacin bioavailability by nearly 50%, possibly due to the metal cations such as calcium, iron, and magnesium contained in fennel. This study also found that fennel increased tissue distribution and slowed elimination of ciprofloxacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might decrease the effects of contraceptive drugs due to competition for estrogen receptors.

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity.

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

Theoretically, fennel might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

In vitro research suggests that fennel inhibits CYP3A4 enzyme activity. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might interfere with hormone replacement therapy due to competition for estrogen receptors.

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might decrease the antiestrogenic effect of tamoxifen.

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity, which may interfere with the antiestrogenic activity of tamoxifen.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare subsp. var. dulce) seed extract full monograph & interactions

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) herb top extract2 drug types · 264 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of lemon balm might have additive effects with CNS depressant drugs.
Lemon balm seems to have CNS depressant activity in animals and in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, lemon balm might interfere with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
In vitro, constituents of lemon balm extract bind to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), preventing TSH receptor-binding and leading to the inhibition of TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. In animals, lemon balm extract has been shown to decrease levels of circulating TSH and inhibit thyroid secretion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) herb top extract full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Herbal Calm, from the product label.

Genestra Brands

Name
Seroyal USA
City
Pittsburgh
State
PA
ZipCode
15275
Phone Number
1-888-737-6925
Web Address
seroyal.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands: Common Questions

Does Herbal Calm by Genestra Brands interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Herbal Calm has a known interaction with 1,025 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Herbal Calm contains 4 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.
Is Herbal Calm safe during pregnancy?
The safety data advises against fennel and passionflower during pregnancy due to limited safety information and possible hormone-like effects. Lemon balm and valerian lack enough data to say either way. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Herbal Calm if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can I take Herbal Calm while breastfeeding?
Fennel at medicinal doses and passionflower are not well studied while breastfeeding. Lemon balm and valerian also have limited safety information at medicinal doses. Food amounts of fennel are likely fine, but the concentrated supplement form isn't well established for nursing. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist before use.
What are the most common side effects?
Drowsiness, dizziness, and mild stomach discomfort are the most frequently reported side effects. Fennel may cause sun sensitivity in some people, and valerian can cause vivid dreams or mental slowness. Most people tolerate the blend well for short-term use.
Will Herbal Calm make me too drowsy to drive or work?
These ingredients are designed to promote relaxation and sleep, so drowsiness is common. Don't drive, operate machinery, or do hazardous tasks until you know how this product affects you personally. If you're taking other sedating medications, the drowsiness could be more pronounced.
Can I take Herbal Calm long-term?
Long-term safety for this blend is not well studied. Short-term use in healthy adults is generally well tolerated. If you stop valerian after extended use, taper your dose slowly rather than stopping abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and insomnia. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether long-term use is right for you.
What is fennel in this product used for?
Fennel seed extract is included primarily for digestive comfort and has the strongest evidence for helping with menstrual cramping. It's also traditionally used to support a calm digestive system.

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

Not sure if Herbal Calm 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.

Herbal Calm label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Herbal Calm’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Fennel

Interacts with 740 drugs

Fennel is a Mediterranean herb widely used as a food and spice, and traditionally taken for digestive complaints, colic, and menstrual cramps. Some small studies suggest possible benefit for...

Read the full Fennel monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Lemon Balm

Interacts with 264 drugs

Lemon balm is a gentle, lemon-scented mint-family herb traditionally used to ease stress, support sleep, and calm digestion, and topically for cold sores. Early studies are promising but gen...

Read the full Lemon Balm monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Passion Flower

Interacts with 836 drugs

Passion flower is a traditional calming herb that many people use for anxiety and sleep. Early studies hint it may help with mild anxiety and restlessness, but the evidence is limited and mo...

Read the full Passion Flower monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Valerian

Interacts with 902 drugs

Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some people sleep but does not work reliably...

Read the full Valerian monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Herbal Calm'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 85 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.

Fennel 17 references
  1. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  2. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  3. Zhu M, Wong PY, Li RC. Effect of oral administration of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) on ciprofloxacin absorption and disposition in the rat. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:1391-6.
  4. Gral N, Beani JC, Bonnot D, et al. [Plasma levels of psoralens after celery ingestion]. Ann Dermatol Venereol 1993;120:599-603.
  5. Burkhard PR, Burkhardt K, Haenggeli CA, Landis T. Plant-induced seizures: reappearance of an old problem. J Neurol 1999;246:667-70. PubMed
  6. Rosti L, Nardini A, Bettinelli ME, Rosti D. Toxic effects of a herbal tea mixture in two newborns. Acta Paediatrica 1994;83:683. PubMed
  7. Cuzzolin L, Zaffani S, and Benoni G. Safety implications regarding use of phytomedicines. Eur.J Clin Pharmacol. 2006;62:37-42. PubMed
  8. Tognolini, M., Ballabeni, V., Bertoni, S., Bruni, R., Impicciatore, M., and Barocelli, E. Protective effect of Foeniculum vulgare essential oil and anethole in an experimental model of thrombosis. Pharmacol.Res 2007;56(3):254-260. PubMed
  9. Subehan, Usia, T., Iwata, H., Kadota, S., and Tezuka, Y. Mechanism-based inhibition of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 by Indonesian medicinal plants. J Ethnopharmacol. 5-24-2006;105(3):449-455. PubMed
  10. Tognolini, M., Barocelli, E., Ballabeni, V., Bruni, R., Bianchi, A., Chiavarini, M., and Impicciatore, M. Comparative screening of plant essential oils: phenylpropanoid moiety as basic core for antiplatelet activity. Life Sci. 2-23-2006;78(13):1419-1432. PubMed
  11. Subehan, Zaidi, S. F., Kadota, S., and Tezuka, Y. Inhibition on human liver cytochrome P450 3A4 by constituents of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): identification and characterization of a mechanism-based inactivator. J Agric.Food Chem. 12-12-2007;55(25):101 PubMed
  12. LEVY, S. B. Bronchial asthma due to ingestion of fennel and fennel seed. Ann.Allergy 1948;6(4):415.
  13. Ottolenghi, A., De Chiara, A., Arrigoni, S., Terracciano, L., and De Amici, M. [Diagnosis of food allergy caused by fruit and vegetables in children with atopic dermatitis]. Pediatr Med Chir 1995;17(6):525-530.
  14. Trabace L, Tucci P, Ciuffreda L, et al. "Natural" relief of pregnancy-related symptoms and neonatal outcomes: above all do no harm. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;174:396-402. PubMed
  15. Denaxa D, Arkwright PD. Fennel as a cause of immediate hypersensitivity to toothpaste. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2020;125(1):99-100. PubMed
  16. Lee HW, Ang L, Lee MS, Alimoradi Z, Kim E. Fennel for reducing pain in primary dysmenorrhea: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrients 2020;12(11):3438. PubMed
  17. Mathew T, John SK, Javali M, Vasireddy M, Nadig R, Sarma GRK. Substance use related cluster headache: A case series. Headache 2022;62(7):908-910. PubMed

See these in context on the Fennel monograph →

Lemon Balm 12 references
  1. Wolbling RH, Leonhardt K. Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. Phytomedicine 1994;1:25-31.
  2. Akhondzadeh S, Noroozian M, Mohammadi M, et al. Melissa officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a double blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2003;74:863-6. PubMed
  3. Kennedy DO, Scholey AB, Tildesley NT, et al. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm). Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2002;72:953-64. PubMed
  4. Albrecht M, Berger W, Laux P, Schmidt U, et al. Psychopharmaka und Verkehrssicherheit. Der Einfluß von Euvegal® - Dragees forte auf die Fahrtüchtigkeit und Kombinationswirkungen mit Alkohol Z Allg Med 1995;71:1215-25.
  5. Herberg, KW. Nebenwirkungen pflanzlicher Beruhigungsmittel/ Leistung und Befinden nach Einnahme einer Baldrian-Hopfen-Kombination. Z.Allg Med 1996;72:234-240.
  6. Soulimani R, Fleurentin J, Mortier F, et al. Neurotropic action of the hydroalcoholic extract of Melissa officinalis in the mouse. Planta Med. 1991 Apr;57:105-9.
  7. Sourgens H, Winterhoff H, Gumbinger HG, et al. Antihormonal effects of plant extracts. TSH- and prolactin-suppressing properties of Lithospermum officinale and other plants. Planta Med. 1982 Jun;45:78-86. DOI
  8. Auf'mkolk M, Ingbar JC, Amir SM, et al. Inhibition by certain plant extracts of the binding and adenylate cyclase stimulatory effect of bovine thyrotropin in human thyroid membranes. Endocrinology. 1984 Aug;115:527-34. PubMed
  9. Santini F, Vitti P, Ceccarini G, et al. In vitro assay of thyroid disruptors affecting TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. J Endocrinol Invest. 2003 Oct;26:950-5. PubMed
  10. Alijaniha F, et al. Heart palpitation relief with Melissa officinalis leaf extract: double blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial of efficacy and safety. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;164:378-384. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.02.007. Epub 2015 Feb 11. PubMed
  11. Araj-Khodaei M, Noorbala AA, Yarani R, et al. A double-blind, randomized pilot study for comparison of Melissa officinalis L. and Lavandula angustifolia Mill. with Fluoxetine for the treatment of depression. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2020;20(1):207. PubMed
  12. Kucuk U, Pham M, Raza Raja MH, Saad Shaukat MH, Clark R. Transient complete atrioventricular block associated with herbal supplement use. S D Med 2023;76(7):311-313.

See these in context on the Lemon Balm monograph →

Passion Flower 19 references
  1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
  2. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  3. Fisher AA, Purcell P, Le Couteur DG. Toxicity of Passiflora incarnata L. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 2000;38:63-6.
  4. Akhondzadeh S, Naghavi HR, Shayeganpour A, et al. Passionflower in the treatment of generalized anxiety: a pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial with oxazepam. J Clin Pharm Ther 2001;26:363-7. PubMed
  5. Farnsworth N, Bingel A, Cordell G, et al. Potential value of plants as sources of new antifertility agents I. J Pharm Sci 1975;64:535-98. DOI
  6. Mori A, Hasegawa K, Murasaki M, et al. Clinical evaluation of Passiflamin (passiflora extract) on neurosis - multicenter double blind study in comparison with mexazolam. Rinsho Hyoka (Clinical Evaluation) 1993;21:383-440.
  7. Miyasaka LS, Atallah AN, Soares BG. Passiflora for anxiety disorder. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007;(1):CD004518. DOI
  8. Speroni E., Minghetti A. Neuropharmacological activity of extracts from Passiflora incarnata. Planta Med. 1988;54:488-91.
  9. Capasso A., Sorrentino L. Pharmacological studies on the sedative and hypnotic effect of Kava kava and Passiflora extracts combination. Phytomedicine. 2005;12:39-45. PubMed
  10. Carrasco MC, Vallejo JR, Pardo-de-Santayana M, et al. Interactions of Valeriana officinalis L. and Passiflora incarnata L. in a patient treated with lorazepam. Phytother Res. 2009 Dec;23:1795-6.
  11. Smith, G. W., Chalmers, T. M., and Nuki, G. Vasculitis associated with herbal preparation containing Passiflora extract. Br J Rheumatol. 1993;32(1):87-88.
  12. Soulimani, R., Younos, C., Jarmouni, S., Bousta, D., Misslin, R., and Mortier, F. Behavioural effects of Passiflora incarnata L. and its indole alkaloid and flavonoid derivatives and maltol in the mouse. J Ethnopharmacol. 1997;57(1):11-20. PubMed
  13. Nojoumi M, Ghaeli P, Salimi S, Sharifi A, Raisi F. Effects of Passion Flower Extract, as an Add-On Treatment to Sertraline, on Reaction Time in Patients ?with Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study. Iran J Psychiatry. 2016;1
  14. Rokhtabnak F, Ghodraty MR, Kholdebarin A, et al. Comparing the Effect of Preoperative Administration of Melatonin and Passiflora incarnata on Postoperative Cognitive Disorders in Adult Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery. Anesth Pain Med. 2016;7(1):e4123 PubMed
  15. Dantas LP, de Oliveira-Ribeiro A, de Almeida-Souza LM, Groppo FC. Effects of passiflora incarnata and midazolam for control of anxiety in patients undergoing dental extraction. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2017;22(1):e95-e101. PubMed
  16. Ozturk Z, Kalayci CC. Pregnancy outcomes in psychiatric patients treated with passiflora incarnata. Complement Ther Med. 2018 Feb;36:30-32. PubMed
  17. da Cunha RS, Amorim KS, Gercina AC, et al. Herbal medicines as anxiolytics prior to third molar surgical extraction. A randomized controlled clinical trial. Clin Oral Investig. 2020. PubMed
  18. Schäfer AM, Gilgen PM, Spirgi C, et al. Constituents of Passiflora incarnata, but Not of Valeriana officinalis, Interact with the Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptides (OATP)2B1 and OATP1A2. Planta Med. 2021. PubMed
  19. Mazzari ALDA, Lacerda MG, Milton FA, et al. In vitro effects of European and Latin-American medicinal plants in CYP3A4 gene expression, glutathione levels, and P-glycoprotein activity. Front Pharmacol 2022;13:826395. PubMed

See these in context on the Passion Flower monograph →

Valerian 37 references
  1. Willey LB, Mady SP, Cobaugh DJ, Wax PM. Valerian overdose: a case report. Vet Hum Toxicol 1995;37:364-5.
  2. Kuhlmann J, Berger W, Podzuweit H, Schmidt U. The influence of valerian treatment on "reaction time, alertness and concentration" in volunteers. Pharmacopsychiatry 1999;32:235-41. PubMed
  3. Klepser TB, Klepser ME. Unsafe and potentially safe herbal therapies. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1999;56:125-38. PubMed
  4. Houghton PJ. The scientific basis for the reputed activity of Valerian. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:505-12. PubMed
  5. Garges HP, Varia I, Doraiswamy PM. Cardiac complications and delirium associated with Valerian root withdrawal. [Letter to the Editor]. JAMA 1998;280:1566-7. PubMed
  6. Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
  7. MacGregor FB, Abernethy VE, Dahabra S, et al. Hepatotoxicity of herbal remedies. BMJ 1989;299:1156-7. PubMed
  8. Leathwood PD, Chauffard F. Aqueous extract of valerian reduces latency to fall asleep in man. Planta Med 1985;2:144-8. PubMed
  9. Hadley S, Petry JJ. Valerian. Am Fam Physician 2003;67:1755-8..
  10. Glass JR, Sproule BA, Herrmann N, et al. Acute pharmacological effects of temazepam, diphenhydramine, and valerian in healthy elderly subjects. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2003;23:260-8. PubMed
  11. Lefebvre T, Foster BC, Drouin CE, et al. In vitro activity of commercial valerian root extracts against human cytochrome P450 3A4. J Pharm Pharmaceut Sci 2004;7:265-73.
  12. Yuan CS, Mehendale S, Xiao Y, et al. The gamma-aminobutyric acidergic effects of valerian and valerenic acid on rat brainstem neuronal activity. Anesth Analg 2004;98:353-8. PubMed
  13. Donovan JL, DeVane CL, Chavin KD, et al. Multiple night-time doses of valerian (Valeriana officinalis) had minimal effects on CYP3A4 activity and no effect on CYP2D6 activity in healthy volunteers. Drug Metab Dispos 2004;32:1333-6. PubMed
  14. Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA, et al. In vivo effects of goldenseal, kava kava, black cohosh, and valerian on human cytochrome P450 1A2, 2D6, 2E1, and 3A4/5 phenotypes. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2005;77:415-26. PubMed
  15. Gutierrez S, Ang-Lee MK, Walker DJ, Zacny JP. Assessing subjective and psychomotor effects of the herbal medication valerian in healthy volunteers. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2004;78:57-64. PubMed
  16. Jacobs BP, Bent S, Tice JA, et al. An internet-based randomized, placebo-controlled trial of kava and valerian for anxiety and insomnia. Medicine (Baltimore) 2005;84:197-207. PubMed
  17. National Toxicology Program, US Department of Health and Human Services. Chemical Information Review Document for Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) [CAS No. 8057-49-6] and Oils [CAS No. 8008-88-6]. Supporting Nomination for Toxicological Evaluation by t
  18. Fernández-San-Martín MI, Masa-Font R, Palacios-Soler L, et al. Effectiveness of Valerian on insomnia: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Sleep Med. 2010 Jun;11:505-11. PubMed
  19. Coxeter PD, Schluter PJ, Eastwood HL, et al. Valerian does not appear to reduce symptoms for patients with chronic insomnia in general practice using a series of randomised n-of-1 trials. Complement Ther Med. 2003 Dec;11:215-22. PubMed
  20. Diaper A, Hindmarch I. A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of two doses of a valerian preparation on the sleep, cognitive and psychomotor function of sleep-disturbed older adults. Phytother Res. 2004 Oct;18:831-6. PubMed
  21. Cuellar NG, Ratcliffe SJ. Does valerian improve sleepiness and symptom severity in people with restless legs syndrome? Altern Ther Health Med 2009;15:22-8.
  22. Chen D, Klesmer J, Giovanniello A, et al. Mental status changes in an alcohol abuser taking valerian and gingko biloba. Am J Addict. 2002 Winter;11:75-7. PubMed
  23. Albrecht M, Berger W, Laux P, Schmidt U, et al. Psychopharmaka und Verkehrssicherheit. Der Einfluß von Euvegal® - Dragees forte auf die Fahrtüchtigkeit und Kombinationswirkungen mit Alkohol Z Allg Med 1995;71:1215-25.
  24. Carrasco MC, Vallejo JR, Pardo-de-Santayana M, et al. Interactions of Valeriana officinalis L. and Passiflora incarnata L. in a patient treated with lorazepam. Phytother Res. 2009 Dec;23:1795-6.
  25. Hellum BH, Nilsen OG. The in vitro inhibitory potential of trade herbal products on human CYP2D6-mediated metabolism and the influence of ethanol. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2007 Nov;101:350-8.
  26. Hellum BH, Hu Z, Nilsen OG. The induction of CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 by six trade herbal products in cultured primary human hepatocytes. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2007 Jan;100:23-30. PubMed
  27. Alkharfy, K. M. and Frye, R. F. Effect of valerian, valerian/hops extracts, and valerenic acid on glucuronidation in vitro. Xenobiotica 2007;37(2):113-123.
  28. Vassiliadis, T., Anagnostis, P., Patsiaoura, K., Giouleme, O., Katsinelos, P., Mpoumponaris, A., and Eugenidis, N. Valeriana hepatotoxicity. Sleep Med 2009;10(8):935. PubMed
  29. Muller, Z., Sarkany, A., Altorjay, A., Szilagyi, A., Tura, T., and Ozsvar, Z. [Liver failure a la Eastern Europe]. Orv.Hetil. 3-22-2009;150(12):555-557. PubMed
  30. National Toxicology Program, US Department of Health and Human Services. Chemical Information Review Document for Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) [CAS No. 8057-49-6] and Oils [CAS No. 8008-88-6]. 2009;
  31. Wells SR. International intravenous administration of a crude valerian root extract. NACCT 1995;33:542.
  32. Aydinoglu U, Özcan H, Yücel A, Yücel N, Mutlu M. Valerian induced hypomania: a case report. Bull Clin Psychopharma 2012;22(Suppl. 1):S63.
  33. Mirabi P, Mojab F. The effects of valerian root on hot flashes in menopausal women. Iran J Pharm Res 2013;12(1):217-22.
  34. Thomas K, Canedo J, Perry PJ, et al. Effects of valerian on subjective sedation, field sobriety testing and driving simulator performance. Accid Anal Prev. 2016 Jul;92:240-4. PubMed
  35. Kia YH, Alexander S, Dowling D, Standish R. A case of steroid-responsive valerian-associated hepatitis. Intern Med J. 2016 Jan;46(1):118-9. PubMed
  36. Burke H, Jiang S, Chatham P, Stern TA. Delirium After Withdrawal From Valerian Root: A Case Report. Psychosomatics. 2020;61(6):787-790. PubMed
  37. Hajizadeh I, Jamshidi M, Kazemi M, Kargar H, Sadeghi T. Comparison the effect of valerian and gabapentin on RLS and sleep quality in hemodialysis patients: A randomized clinical trial. Ther Apher Dial 2023.

See these in context on the Valerian 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