Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Planetary Herbals

Tablet Or Pill Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Major
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg is a dietary supplement by Planetary Herbals with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for menopause symptoms, menstrual cramps and irregular periods, premenstrual syndrome (pms).Based on those ingredients, 1,335 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Ginkgo leaf extract, Dong Quai, Butcher's Broom. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg by Planetary Herbals

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

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (405 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

This tablet contains 5 active ingredients in a proprietary blend. Dong quai, witch hazel, butcher's broom, ginkgo leaf extract, and horse chestnut seed extract are combined at a total of 705 mg per dose.

The supplement also contains several inactive ingredients—sorbitol, stearic acid, silica, and magnesium stearate—which are fillers and binders used to form and hold the tablet together.

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: supports vein and capillary integrity.
  • We looked for evidence on: Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), Varicose veins, Hemorrhoids, Bruises, Postoperative swelling, leg swelling — and 2 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Witch Hazel is rated "Possibly Effective" for Hemorrhoids (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Butcher's Broom is rated "Possibly Effective" for Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
  • Also on file: Horse Chestnut is rated "Possibly Effective" for Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

The evidence for this product's main ingredients is mixed. Butcher's broom and horse chestnut seed extract both show possibly effective data for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a condition involving poor blood flow in the veins.

Ginkgo leaf extract is possibly effective for hearing loss, stroke recovery support, schizophrenia, premenstrual syndrome, dementia, and anxiety. Witch hazel is possibly effective for hemorrhoids.

However, dong quai lacks reliable evidence for the conditions listed in our data, including iron deficiency anemia, osteoporosis, heart disease, migraine, and eczema. For several other uses—such as hemorrhoids with horse chestnut, lymphedema with butcher's broom, and varicose veins with witch hazel—the evidence is insufficient to rate.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Dong Quai Witch Hazel Butcher's Broom Ginkgo Horse Chestnut

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 5 of the 5 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 5 of 5.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 5 of 5.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Several of these ingredients require caution. Dong quai may increase bleeding risk and cause photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight), and it's possibly unsafe in pregnancy and should be avoided while breastfeeding.

Ginkgo leaf extract is generally well tolerated for up to 6 years but carries a bleeding risk and should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Butcher's broom is generally well tolerated short-term but safety data for long-term use is limited; it's unsafe in pregnancy and should be avoided while breastfeeding.

Horse chestnut seed extract (properly processed) is generally well tolerated, but the raw plant parts are toxic; it's unsafe in pregnancy and should be avoided while breastfeeding. Witch hazel is generally well tolerated topically but is not intended for oral use—topical use in pregnancy and breastfeeding has limited data, so talk with your doctor before use.

Common side effects across the ingredients include gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, and headache. Ginkgo carries a rare but serious risk of cardiac arrhythmias and spontaneous bleeding.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Dong Quai Witch Hazel Butcher's Broom Ginkgo Horse Chestnut

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?
  • 4 of the 5 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Butcher's Broom, Ginkgo, Dong Quai, Horse Chestnut.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; seizure medications; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 1,336 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.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you're on any of the following: blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs like warfarin (Major risk of increased bleeding from dong quai and ginkgo), beta-blockers like talinolol, cholesterol medications like simvastatin, anti-anxiety drugs like alprazolam, antidepressants like trazodone, HIV medications like efavirenz, diabetes drugs like rosiglitazone, immunosuppressants like tacrolimus, or alpha-adrenergic medications used for blood pressure or other conditions (all Moderate risks from ginkgo and butcher's broom). No interactions are documented for witch hazel.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This product may be worth considering if you're looking for support with chronic venous insufficiency or related vein health concerns, since butcher's broom and horse chestnut have some evidence for that use. However, if you take any blood thinners, anti-anxiety medications, cholesterol drugs, diabetes medications, or blood pressure medications, you'll need to check your exact prescriptions with your doctor or pharmacist before adding this to your routine—the interactions are real and can affect how your medications work.

Similarly, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor first, as several ingredients carry safety concerns during these times. The decision to take this supplement is yours to make together with your healthcare provider.

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

Assessment coverage: 5 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jul 25, 2017.

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 Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg, straight from the product label.

Brand Planetary Herbals
Barcode (UPC) 021078103929
Net contents 42 Tablet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jul 25, 2017
DSLD ID 76678
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Tablet Or Pill
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 Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg by Planetary Herbals, 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:
1 Tablet(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Tablet(s)
UPC/BARCODE
021078103929
IngredientAmount% DV
Proprietary Blend405 mg--
Dong Quai0 NP--
Witch Hazel0 NP--
Butcher's Broom0 NP--
Ginkgo leaf extract0 NP--
Horse Chestnut seed extract300 mg--

Other ingredients: Sorbitol, Stearic Acid, Silica, 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.
Formula

20% Aescin

Planetary Herbals Horse Chestnut Vein Strength combines an extract of horse chestnut, standardized to 20% aescin, with other herbs used to support the vascular system, including witch hazel, butcher’s broom and ginkgo.

General Statements

Supports the integrity of the veins and capillaries

Formulated by Michael Tierra L.Ac, O.M.D

Horse chestnut extracts containing aescin, a complex of saponins, have been shown in numerous clinical trials to help support the normal integrity of the vascular system and connective tissue.

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Use: 1 tablet twice daily between meals.

Precautions

Caution: If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, breastfeeding, using blood-thinning medications, or regularly using aspirin, consult your health care professional before using this product.

Do not use if either tamper-evident seal is broken or missing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

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.

General

PF0392 REV L162-A

See for yourself

Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg by Planetary Herbals label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg by Planetary Herbals

These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill 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.

Proprietary Blend

405 mg per serving

Horse Chestnut seed extract

Interacts with
122 drugs
300 mg per serving Form: Aescin

Horse chestnut seed extract is most often used for chronic venous insufficiency, where standardized products may help reduce leg swelling, pain, and h...

Horse Chestnut seed extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Sorbitol, Stearic Acid, Silica, Magnesium Stearate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg by Planetary Herbals Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg?

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
1,335Drugs
3 Major 1,332 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Dong Quai 163

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg 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.

Ginkgo leaf extract23 drug types · 1,266 drugs

Talinolol

Taking ginkgo with talinolol seems to increase blood levels of talinolol.
There is some evidence that using ginkgo leaf extract 120 mg orally three times daily for 14 days can increase levels of talinolol by 36% in healthy male individuals. However, single doses of ginkgo do not seem to affect talinolol pharmacokinetics.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Alprazolam (Xanax)

Theoretically, ginkgo might decrease the levels and clinical effects of alprazolam.
In clinical research, ginkgo extract (Ginkgold) 120 mg twice daily seems to decrease alprazolam levels by about 17%. However, ginkgo does not appear to decrease the elimination half-life of alprazolam. This suggests that ginkgo is more likely to decrease absorption of alprazolam rather than induce hepatic metabolism of alprazolam.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Ginkgo has been shown to increase the risk of bleeding in some people when taken with warfarin. Theoretically, ginkgo might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Several pharmacodynamic studies suggest that ginkgo inhibits platelet aggregation. It is thought that the ginkgo constituent, ginkgolide B, displaces platelet-activating factor (PAF) from its binding sites, decreasing blood coagulation. Several case reports have documented serious bleeding events in patients taking ginkgo. However, population and clinical studies have produced mixed results. Some evidence shows that short-term use of ginkgo leaf does not significantly reduce platelet aggregation and blood clotting. A study in healthy males who took a specific ginkgo leaf extract (EGb 761) 160 mg twice daily for 7 days found no change in prothrombin time. An analysis of a large medical record database suggests that ginkgo increases the risk of a bleeding adverse event by 38% when taken concurrently with warfarin. It has been suggested that ginkgo has to be taken for at least 2-3 weeks to have a significant effect on platelet aggregation. However, a meta-analysis of 18 studies using standardized ginkgo extracts, 80-480 mg daily for up to 32 weeks, did not find a significant effect on platelet aggregation, fibrinogen concentration, or PT/aPTT. In addition, a single dose of ginkgo plus clopidogrel or ticlopidine does not seem to significantly increase bleeding time or platelet aggregation. Also, taking ginkgo leaf extract daily for 8 days in conjunction with rivaroxaban does not affect anti-factor Xa activity; however, this study did not evaluate bleeding time.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Anticonvulsants

Theoretically, ginkgo might reduce the effectiveness of anticonvulsants.
Ginkgo seeds contain ginkgotoxin. Large amounts of ginkgotoxin can cause neurotoxicity and seizure. Ginkgotoxin is present in much larger amounts in ginkgo seeds than leaves. Ginkgo leaf extract contains trace amounts of ginkgotoxin. The amount of ginkgotoxin in ginkgo leaf and leaf extract seems unlikely to cause toxicity. However, there are anecdotal reports of seizure occurring after use of ginkgo leaf both in patients without a history of seizure disorder and in those with previously well-controlled epilepsy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking ginkgo with antidiabetes drugs might alter the response to antidiabetes drugs.
Ginkgo leaf extract seems to alter insulin secretion and metabolism, and might affect blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The effect of ginkgo seems to differ depending on the insulin and treatment status of the patient. In diet-controlled diabetes patients with hyperinsulinemia, taking ginkgo does not seem to significantly affect insulin or blood glucose levels. In patients with hyperinsulinemia who are treated with oral hypoglycemic agents, taking ginkgo seems to decrease insulin levels and increase blood glucose following an oral glucose tolerance test. Researchers speculate that this could be due to ginkgo-enhanced hepatic metabolism of insulin. In patients with pancreatic exhaustion, taking ginkgo seems to stimulate pancreatic beta-cells, resulting in increased insulin and C-peptide levels, but with no significant change in blood glucose levels in response to an oral glucose tolerance test.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Atorvastatin (Lipitor)

Theoretically, ginkgo might decrease the levels and clinical effects of atorvastatin.
In humans, intake of ginkgo extract appears to increase atorvastatin clearance, reducing the area under the curve of atorvastatin by 10% to 14% and the maximum concentration by 29%. However, this interaction does not appear to affect cholesterol synthesis and absorption. Further, a model in rats with hyperlipidemia suggests that administering ginkgo extract does not impact blood levels of atorvastatin and leads to lower total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides when compared with rats given atorvastatin alone.

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

Theoretically, ginkgo might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Laboratory research suggests that ginkgo leaf extract can mildly inhibit CYP1A2 enzymes. However, clinical research suggests ginkgo might not affect CYP1A2. Until more is known, use ginkgo cautiously in patients taking drugs metabolized by these enzymes.

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

Theoretically, ginkgo might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Some clinical research shows that a specific ginkgo leaf extract (Remembrance, Herbs Product LTD) 140 mg twice daily can induce CYP2C19 enzymes and potentially decrease levels of drugs metabolized by these enzymes. However, other clinical research shows that taking ginkgo 120 mg twice daily for 12 days has no effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.

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

Theoretically, ginkgo might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro, a specific standardized extract of ginkgo leaf (EGb 761) inhibits CYP2C9 activity . The terpenoid (ginkgolides) and flavonoid (quercetin, kaempferol, etc.) constituents seem to be responsible for this effect. Most ginkgo extracts contain some amount of these constituents. Therefore, other ginkgo leaf extracts might also inhibit the CYP2C9 enzyme. However, clinical research suggests that ginkgo might not have a significant effect on CYP2C9 in humans. Ginkgo does not seem to significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of CYP2C9 substrates diclofenac or tolbutamide.

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

Theoretically, ginkgo might decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
There is conflicting evidence about whether ginkgo induces or inhibits CYP3A4. Ginkgo does not appear to affect hepatic CYP3A4. However, it is not known if ginkgo affects intestinal CYP3A4. Preliminary clinical research suggests that taking ginkgo does not significantly affect levels of donepezil, lopinavir, or ritonavir, which are all CYP3A4 substrates. Other clinical research also suggests ginkgo does not significantly affect CYP3A4 activity. However, there are two case reports of decreased efavirenz concentrations and increased viral load in patients taking ginkgo. It is suspected that terpenoids from the ginkgo extract reduced drug levels by inducing cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4).

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Efavirenz (Sustiva)

Theoretically, ginkgo might decrease the levels and clinical effects of efavirenz.
There are two case reports of decreased efavirenz concentrations and increased viral load in patients taking ginkgo. In one case, an HIV-positive male experienced over a 50% decrease in efavirenz levels over the course of 14 months while taking ginkgo extract. HIV-1 RNA copies also increased substantially, from less than 50 to more than 1500. It is suspected that terpenoids from the ginkgo extract reduced drug levels by inducing cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). In another case report, a patient stable on antiviral therapy including efavirenz for 10 years, had an increase in viral load from <50 copies/mL to 1350 copies/mL after 2 months of taking a combination of supplements including ginkgo. After stopping ginkgo, the viral load was again controlled with the same antiviral therapy regimen.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Ibuprofen (Advil, Others)

Theoretically, ginkgo might increase the risk of bleeding when used with ibuprofen.
Ginkgo might have antiplatelet effects and has been associated with several case reports of spontaneous bleeding. In one case, a 71-year-old male had taken a specific ginkgo extract (Gingium, Biocur) 40 mg twice daily for 2.5 years. About 4 weeks after starting ibuprofen 600 mg daily he experienced a fatal intracerebral hemorrhage. However, the antiplatelet effects of ginkgo have been questioned. A meta-analysis and other studies have not found a significant antiplatelet effect with standardized ginkgo extracts, 80 mg to 480 mg taken daily for up to 32 weeks.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, taking ginkgo with P-glycoprotein substrates might increase the levels and adverse effects of these substrates.
A small clinical study in healthy volunteers shows that using ginkgo leaf extract 120 mg orally three times daily for 14 days can increase levels of the P-glycoprotein substrate, talinolol, by 36% in healthy male individuals. However, single doses of ginkgo do not have the same effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Risperidone (Risperdal)

Theoretically, taking ginkgo with risperidone might increase the levels and adverse effects of risperidone.
A single case of priapism has been reported for a 26-year-old male with schizophrenia who used risperidone 3 mg daily along with ginkgo extract 160 mg daily. Risperidone is metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and CYP3A4. CYP3A4 activity might be affected by ginkgo. Theoretically, ginkgo may inhibit the metabolism of risperidone and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Rosiglitazone (Avandia)

Theoretically, ginkgo might decrease the levels and clinical effects of rosiglitazone.
Animal research shows that ginkgo leaf extract orally 100 or 200 mg/kg daily for 10 days alters the pharmacodynamics of rosiglitazone in a dose-dependent manner. The 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg doses reduce the area under the concentration time curve (AUC) of rosiglitazone by 39% and 52%, respectively, and the half-life by 28% and 39%, respectively. It is hypothesized that these changes may be due to induction of cytochrome P450 2C8 by ginkgo.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Seizure Threshold Lowering Drugs

Theoretically, taking ginkgo with drugs that lower the seizure threshold might increase the risk for convulsions.
Ginkgo seeds contain ginkgotoxin. Large amounts of ginkgotoxin can cause neurotoxicity and seizure. Ginkgotoxin is present in much larger amounts in ginkgo seeds than leaves. Ginkgo leaf extract contains trace amounts of ginkgotoxin. The amount of ginkgotoxin in ginkgo leaf and leaf extract seems unlikely to cause toxicity. However, there are anecdotal reports of seizure occurring after use of ginkgo leaf both in patients without a history of seizure disorder and in those with previously well-controlled epilepsy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Simvastatin (Zocor)

Theoretically, ginkgo might decrease the levels and clinical effects of simvastatin.
Clinical research shows that taking ginkgo extract can reduce the area under the curve and maximum concentration of simvastatin by 32% to 39%. However, ginkgo extract does not seem to affect the cholesterol-lowering ability of simvastatin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Sofosbuvir (Sovaldi)

Theoretically, ginkgo might increase the levels and clinical effects of sofosbuvir.
Animal research in rats shows that giving a ginkgo extract 25 mg/kg orally daily for 14 days increases the area under the concentration time curve (AUC) after a single sofosbuvir dose of 40 mg/kg by 11%, increases the half-life by 60%, and increases the plasma concentration at 4 hours by 38%. This interaction appears to be related to the inhibition of intestinal P-glycoprotein by ginkgo.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

Theoretically, ginkgo might increase the blood levels of tacrolimus.
In vitro evidence suggests that certain biflavonoids in ginkgo leaves (i.e. amentoflavone, ginkgetin, bilobetin) may inhibit the metabolism of tacrolimus by up to 50%. This interaction appears to be time-dependent and due to inhibition of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 by these bioflavonoids. In rats given tacrolimus 1 mg/kg orally, amentoflavone was shown to increase the area under the concentration time curve (AUC) of tacrolimus by 3.8-fold.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Trazodone (Desyrel)

Theoretically, ginkgo might increase the levels and clinical effects of trazodone.
In a case report, an Alzheimer patient taking trazodone 20 mg twice daily and ginkgo leaf extract 80 mg twice daily for four doses became comatose. The coma was reversed by administration of flumazenil (Romazicon). Coma might have been induced by excessive GABA-ergic activity. Ginkgo flavonoids are thought to have GABA-ergic activity and act directly on benzodiazepine receptors. Ginkgo might also increase metabolism of trazodone to active GABA-ergic metabolites, possibly by inducing cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolism.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Ginkgo has been shown to increase the risk of bleeding in some people when taken with warfarin.
Several pharmacodynamic studies suggest that ginkgo inhibits platelet aggregation. It is thought that the ginkgo constituent, ginkgolide B, displaces platelet-activating factor (PAF) from its binding sites, decreasing blood coagulation. Several case reports have documented serious bleeding events in patients taking ginkgo. Information from a medical database suggests that when taken concurrently with warfarin, ginkgo increases the risk of a bleeding adverse event by 38%. There is also some evidence that ginkgo leaf extract can inhibit cytochrome P450 2C9, an enzyme that metabolizes warfarin. This could result in increased warfarin levels. However, population and clinical research has produced mixed results. Clinical research in healthy people suggests that ginkgo has no effect on INR, or the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of warfarin. A meta-analysis of 18 studies using standardized ginkgo extracts, 80 mg to 480 mg daily for up to 32 weeks, did not find a significant effect on platelet aggregation, fibrinogen concentration, or PT/aPTT. There is also some preliminary clinical research that suggests ginkgo might not significantly increase the effects of warfarin in patients that have a stable INR.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Nifedipine (Procardia)

Theoretically, taking ginkgo with oral, but not intravenous, nifedipine might increase levels and adverse effects of nifedipine.
Animal research and some clinical evidence suggests that taking ginkgo leaf extract orally in combination with oral nifedipine might increase nifedipine levels and cause increased side effects, such as headaches, dizziness, and hot flushes. However, taking ginkgo orally does not seem to affect the pharmacokinetics of intravenous nifedipine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Omeprazole (Prilosec)

Theoretically, taking ginkgo with omeprazole might decrease the levels and clinical effects of omeprazole.
Clinical research shows that a specific ginkgo leaf extract (Remembrance, Herbs Product LTD) 140 mg twice daily can induce cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 enzymes and decrease levels of omeprazole by about 27% to 42%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Dong Quai3 drug types · 163 drugs

Warfarin (Coumadin)

Dong quai may increase the risk of bleeding when used with warfarin.
Case reports suggest that concomitant use of dong quai with warfarin can increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding. In one case, after 4 weeks of taking dong quai 565 mg once or twice daily, the international normalized ratio (INR) increased to 4.9. The INR normalized 4 weeks after discontinuation of dong quai.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, dong quai may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs; however, research is conflicting.
Animal studies suggest that dong quai has antithrombin activity and inhibits platelet aggregation due to its coumarin components. Additionally, some case reports in humans suggest that dong quai can increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin. However, clinical research in healthy adults shows that taking 1 gram of dong quai root daily for 3 weeks does not significantly inhibit platelet aggregation or cause bleeding. Until more is known, use dong quai with caution in patients taking antiplatelet/anticoagulant drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, dong quai may reduce the effects of estrogens.
Dong quai has estrogenic effects. Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of dong quai might interfere with hormone replacement therapy due to competition for estrogen receptors.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Butcher's Broom2 drug types · 158 drugs

Alpha-Adrenergic Agonists

Theoretically, butcher's broom might increase the effects and adverse effects of alpha-adrenergic agonists.
Animal and in vitro studies show that butcher's broom has alpha-adrenergic agonist effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Alpha-Adrenergic Antagonists

Theoretically, butcher's broom might reduce the effects of alpha-adrenergic antagonists.
Animal and in vitro studies show that butcher's broom has alpha-adrenergic agonist effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Horse Chestnut seed extract1 drug type · 122 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Horse chestnut may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Horse chestnut contains the constituent esculin which has been shown to have antithrombotic effects. Therefore, horse chestnut might have antiplatelet effects. This has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg, from the product label.

Planetary Herbals

See all Planetary Herbals products
Name
Planetary Herbals, LLC
Street Address
P.O. Box 1760
City
Soquel
State
CA
ZipCode
95073
Web Address
www.planetaryherbals.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg by Planetary Herbals: Common Questions

Does Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg by Planetary Herbals interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg has a known interaction with 1,335 medications, including 3 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg contains 5 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.
Can I take this if I'm on warfarin or another blood thinner?
Not without talking to your doctor first. Dong quai and ginkgo in this product both increase bleeding risk when combined with blood thinners like warfarin, and the effect can be significant. Your doctor needs to know before you start this supplement.
Is it safe to use this while pregnant?
Dong quai and ginkgo are possibly unsafe in pregnancy, and butcher's broom and horse chestnut are unsafe. Witch hazel has limited safety data for pregnancy. Talk with your doctor before use if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can I breastfeed while taking this supplement?
Several of these ingredients—dong quai, ginkgo, butcher's broom, and horse chestnut—should be avoided while breastfeeding because there isn't enough safety information. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist to be sure.
What are the most common side effects?
Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn), dizziness, and headache are the most commonly reported. Dong quai can also cause burping and flatulence, and ginkgo may occasionally cause cardiac arrhythmias or bleeding, though these are rare.
Does this product actually work for vein health and varicose veins?
Butcher's broom and horse chestnut seed extract have possibly effective evidence for chronic venous insufficiency. For varicose veins specifically and for hemorrhoids, the evidence is insufficient to rate, so we can't say it's proven to work for those uses based on the data we hold.
What is horse chestnut seed extract and is it safe?
Horse chestnut seed extract is a processed form of the horse chestnut seed with the toxic compound esculin removed, making it reasonably well tolerated when used orally. The raw seed or bark is toxic and should be avoided. Common side effects from the extract include dizziness, gastrointestinal upset, headache, and itching.

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Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg label
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The Full Monographs Behind Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg’s Ingredients

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

Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Horse Chestnut Vein Strength 705 mg'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 152 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.

Dong Quai 19 references
  1. Hirata JD, Swiersz LM, Zell B, et al. Does dong quai have estrogenic effects in postmenopausal women? A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Fertil Steril 1997;68:981-6. PubMed
  2. Page RL II, Lawrence JD. Potentiation of warfarin by dong quai. Pharmacotherapy 1999;19:870-6. PubMed
  3. Heck AM, DeWitt BA, Lukes AL. Potential interactions between alternative therapies and warfarin. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2000;57:1221-7. DOI
  4. 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.
  5. Dr. Duke's Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases. Available at: http://www.ars-grin.gov/duke/.
  6. Amato P, Christophe S, Mellon PL. Estrogenic activity of herbs commonly used as remedies for menopausal symptoms. Menopause 2002;9:145-50. PubMed
  7. Shi M, Chang L, He G. [Stimulating action of Carthamus tinctorius L., Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels and Leonurus sibiricus L. on the uterus]. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 1995;20:173-5, 192.
  8. Hoult JR, Paya M. Pharmacological and biochemical actions of simple coumarins: natural products with therapeutic potential. Gen Pharmacol 1996;27:713-22.. PubMed
  9. Cheong JL, Bucknall R. Retinal vein thrombosis associated with a herbal phytoestrogen preparation in a susceptible patient. Postgrad Med J 2005;81:266-7.. PubMed
  10. Chang CJ, Chiu JH, Tseng LM, et al. Modulation of HER2 expression by ferulic acid on human breast cancer MCF7 cells. Eur J Clin Invest 2006;36:588-96. PubMed
  11. Chuang CH, Doyle P, Wang JD, et al. Herbal medicines used during the first trimester and major congenital malformations: an analysis of data from a pregnancy cohort study. Drug Saf 2006;29:537-48. PubMed
  12. Lau CBS, Ho TCY, Chan TWL, Kim SCF. Use of dong quai (Angelica sinensis) to treat peri- and postmenopausal symptoms in women with breast cancer: is it appropriate? Menopause 2005;12:734-40.
  13. Ellis GR, Stephens MR. Untitled (photograph and a brief case report). BMJ 1999;319:650.
  14. Nambiar, S., Schwartz, R. H., and Constantino, A. Hypertension in mother and baby linked to ingestion of Chinese herbal medicine. West J Med 1999;171(3):152.
  15. Lee, S. K., Cho, H. K., Cho, S. H., Kim, S. S., Nahm, D. H., and Park, H. S. Occupational asthma and rhinitis caused by multiple herbal agents in a pharmacist. Ann.Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2001;86(4):469-474. PubMed
  16. Xu, J. and Li, G. [Observation on short-term effects of Angelica injection on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with pulmonary hypertension]. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 2000;20(3):187-189.
  17. Scott, G. N. and Elmer, G. W. Update on natural product--drug interactions. Am J Health Syst.Pharm 2-15-2002;59(4):339-347. PubMed
  18. Circosta, C., Pasquale, R. D., Palumbo, D. R., Samperi, S., and Occhiuto, F. Estrogenic activity of standardized extract of Angelica sinensis. Phytother.Res. 2006;20(8):665-669.
  19. Fung FY, Wong WH, Ang SK, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo- controlled study on the anti-haemostatic effects of Curcuma longa, Angelica sinensis and Panax ginseng. Phytomedicine. 2017;32:88-96. PubMed

See these in context on the Dong Quai monograph →

Witch Hazel 7 references
  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  2. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  3. Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler's Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. New York, NY: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
  4. Hormann HP, Korting HC. Evidence for the efficacy and safety of topical herbal drugs in dermatology: part I: anti-inflammatory agents. Phytomedicine 1994;1:161-71. PubMed
  5. Wolff, H. H. and Kieser, M. Hamamelis in children with skin disorders and skin injuries: results of an observational study. Eur.J.Pediatr. 2007;166(9):943-948. PubMed
  6. Khanna, N. and Datta, Gupta S. Rejuvenating facial massage--a bane or boon? Int J Dermatol. 2002;41(7):407-410. PubMed
  7. Theisen LL, Erdelmeier CA, Spoden GA, Boukhallouk F, Sausy A, Florin L, Muller CP. Tannins from Hamamelis virginiana bark extract: characterization and improvement of the antiviral efficacy against influenza A virus and human papillomavirus. PLoS One. 201 PubMed

See these in context on the Witch Hazel monograph →

Butcher's Broom 8 references
  1. Beltramino R, Penenory A, Buceta AM. An open-label, randomized multicenter study comparing the efficacy and safety of Cyclo 3 Fort versus hydroxyethyl rutoside in chronic venous lymphatic insufficiency. Angiology 2000;51:535-44.. PubMed
  2. Redman DA. Ruscus aculeatus (butcher's broom) as a potential treatment for orthostatic hypotension, with a case report. J Altern Complement Med 2000;6:539-49..
  3. Landa, N., Aguirre, A., Goday, J., Raton, J. A., and Diaz-Perez, J. L. Allergic contact dermatitis from a vasoconstrictor cream. Contact Dermatitis 1990;22(5):290-291. PubMed
  4. Cluzan, R. V., Alliot, F., Ghabboun, S., and Pascot, M. Treatment of secondary lymphedema of the upper limb with CYCLO 3 FORT. Lymphology 1996;29(1):29-35.
  5. Parrado F, Buzzi A. A study of the efficacy and tolerability of a preparation containing Ruscus aculeatus in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency of the lower limbs. Clin Drug Invest 1999;18(4):255-61. DOI
  6. Sadarmin PP, Timperley J. An unusual case of Butcher's Broom precipitating diabetic ketoacidosis. J Emerg Med 2013;45(3):e63-e65. PubMed
  7. Ramirez-Hernandez M, Garcia-Selles J, Merida-Fernandez C, Martinez-Escribano JA. Allergic contact dermatitis to ruscogenins. Contact Dermatitis 2006;54(1):60. PubMed
  8. European Medicines Agency. Assessment report on Ruscus Aculeatus L rhizome. EMEA/HMPC/261939/2007. London, September 4, 2008. Available at: http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_library/Herbal_-_HMPC_assessment_report/2009/12/WC500018288.pdf. Acces

See these in context on the Butcher's Broom monograph →

Ginkgo 97 references
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  2. Benjamin J, Muir T, Briggs K, Pentland B. A case of cerebral haemorrhage-can Ginkgo biloba be implicated? Postgrad Med J 2001;77:112-3.
  3. Matthews, MK. Association of Ginkgo biloba with intracerebral hemorrhage. Neurology 1998;50:1934.
  4. Rowin J, Lewis SL. Spontaneous bilateral subdural hemotomas with chronic Ginkgo biloba ingestion. Neurology 1996;46:1775-6.
  5. Rosenblatt M, Mindel T. Spontaneous hyphema associated with ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract. N Engl J Med 1997;336:1108.
  6. Fessenden JM, Wittenborn W, Clarke L. Gingko biloba: a case report of herbal medicine and bleeding postoperatively from a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Am Surg 2001;67:33-5. DOI
  7. 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.
  8. Cohen AJ, Bartlik B. Ginkgo biloba for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. J Sex Marital Ther 1998;24:139-43. PubMed
  9. Kudolo GB. The effect of 3-month ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract on pancreatic beta-cell function in response to glucose loading in normal glucose tolerant individuals. J Clin Pharmacol 2000;40:647-54.
  10. Heck AM, DeWitt BA, Lukes AL. Potential interactions between alternative therapies and warfarin. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2000;57:1221-7. DOI
  11. Cesarani A, Meloni F, Alpini D, et al. Ginkgo biloba (EGb 761) in the treatment of equilibrium disorders. Adv Ther 1998;15:291-304.
  12. Galluzzi S, Zanetti O, Binetti G, et al. Coma in a patient with Alzheimer's disease taking low dose trazodone and Ginkgo biloba. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2000;68:679-80. DOI
  13. 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
  14. Gregory PJ. Seizure associated with Ginkgo biloba? Ann Intern Med 2001;134:344.
  15. Granger AS. Ginkgo biloba precipitating epileptic seizures. Age Ageing 2001;30:523-5. PubMed
  16. Kajiyama Y, Fujii K, Takeuchi H, Manabe Y. Ginkgo seed poisoning. Pediatrics 2002;109:325-7. PubMed
  17. Miwa H, Iijima M, Tanaka S, Mizuno Y. Generalized convulsions after consuming a large amount of gingko nuts. Epilepsia 2001;42:280-1. DOI
  18. Burschka MA, Hassan HA, Reineke T, et al. Effect of treatment with Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 (oral) on unilateral idiopathic sudden hearing loss in a prospective randomized double-blind study of 106 outpatients. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2001;258:213- PubMed
  19. Miller LG, Freeman B. Possible subdural hematoma associated with Ginkgo biloba. J Herb Pharmacother 2002;2:57-63.
  20. Kudolo GB, Dorsey S, Blodgett J. Effect of the ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract on platelet aggregation and urinary prostanoid excretion in healthy and Type 2 diabetic subjects. Thromb Res 2002;108:151-60.. PubMed
  21. Fong KC, Kinnear PE. Retrobulbar haemorrhage associated with chronic Ginkgo biloba ingestion. Postgrad Med J 2003;79:531-2..
  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. Kang BJ, Lee SJ, Kim MD, Cho MJ. A placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of Ginkgo biloba for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. Hum Psychopharmacol 2002;17:279-84.
  24. Yale SH, Glurich I. Analysis of the inhibitory potential of Ginkgo biloba, Echinacea purpurea, and Serenoa repens on the metabolic activity of cytochrome P450 3A4, 2D6, and 2C9. J Altern Complement Med 2005;11:433-9.
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  68. Russo, V., Stella, A., Appezzati, L., Barone, A., Stagni, E., Roszkowska, A., and Delle, Noci N. Clinical efficacy of a Ginkgo biloba extract in the topical treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. Eur J Ophthalmol. 2009;19(3):331-336. PubMed
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Horse Chestnut 21 references
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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.

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