Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Based on 11 of 19 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Imperial Garden Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs

Imperial Garden label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Major
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 16, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

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

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

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Imperial Garden is a dietary supplement by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs with 19 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for general antioxidant support, eye health, immune support.Based on those ingredients, 1,624 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Chinese Ginseng root extract, Goji Berry Extract, Epimedium leaf extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs

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

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

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

What’s inside

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 0 of its 19 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Extract Formula” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (1,500 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Imperial Garden contains 19 ingredients, most of them traditional plant extracts used in Chinese herbal medicine. The checked active ingredients include goji berry extract, schisandra fruit extract, fennel seed extract, cordyceps mycelium powder, poria mushroom extract, cinnamon twig extract, and rehmannia root extract.

We could not verify interaction data for the remaining ingredients — achyranthes root, Chinese ginseng root, morinda root, eucommia bark, Chinese yam, cornus fruit, polygala root, epimedium leaf, cistanche stem, red jujube date, rubus fruit, and broussonetia fruit. The product also contains inactive ingredients: pullulan polysaccharide, rice powder, bamboo extract, and rice extract blend, which serve as fillers and capsule material.

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: Nourish jing essence and general wellness.
  • We looked for evidence on: Aging, Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), Fatigue, Vitality, Longevity, Energy — and 1 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Panax Ginseng is rated "Possibly Effective" for Multiple sclerosis-related fatigue (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Poria Mushroom is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
  • Also on file: Schisandra is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Aging.

The evidence for Imperial Garden's ingredients is sparse. Rehmannia root is rated possibly effective for chronic kidney disease (CKD), but most of the other ingredients in this formula have insufficient reliable evidence to support their claimed uses.

Fennel seed is rated possibly effective for dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), but the other ingredients — goji, schisandra, cordyceps, cinnamon, and poria — do not have established evidence of effectiveness for any condition in the data we hold. If you're considering this product for a specific health goal, talk with your pharmacist or doctor about what the evidence actually shows.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Goji Schisandra Panax Ginseng Fennel Cordyceps Ba Ji Tian American Dogwood Poria Mushroom

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

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

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 8 of the 11 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 11 of 11.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 11 of 11.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Goji berry is generally safe as a food, but concentrated supplements carry less safety data than the whole fruit. Rare cases of allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) and liver inflammation have been reported.

Schisandra is generally well tolerated short-term, though it can cause heartburn, decreased appetite, stomach upset, and a rash in some people. Fennel is well tolerated in food amounts but may rarely cause seizures or allergic reactions including asthma.

Cordyceps can cause abdominal discomfort, constipation, or diarrhea, and one case of liver inflammation has been reported. Cinnamon is safe in food amounts, but high-dose supplements carry concern for liver damage due to coumarin content; one seizure and one rash have been reported in trials.

Poria mushroom and rehmannia have limited human safety data. Avoid medicinal amounts of goji, schisandra, cordyceps, poria, and rehmannia during pregnancy, and avoid them while breastfeeding — the safety data are insufficient.

Fennel and cinnamon in food amounts are likely fine during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but medicinal or concentrated doses are not well studied.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Goji Schisandra Panax Ginseng Fennel Cordyceps Ba Ji Tian American Dogwood Poria Mushroom

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?
  • 10 of the 11 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Poria Mushroom, Fennel, Schisandra, Cordyceps, Horny Goat Weed, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications.
  • For scale: 1,625 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 Imperial Garden, check with your pharmacist if you take warfarin or other blood thinners (Major severity from goji); blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, or any drug processed through your liver's cytochrome P450 enzymes (Moderate); birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy (Moderate from fennel); immune-suppressing drugs like cyclosporine (Moderate from cordyceps); or sedatives and brain-affecting medications (Moderate from poria and schisandra). If you're on any prescription medication, use the checker below with your exact drug names.

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.

If you take any blood thinners (especially warfarin), blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, birth control, or medications processed through your liver, you need to check your specific drugs against the interaction tool on this page before using Imperial Garden. The most serious documented interaction is goji with warfarin.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your pharmacist or doctor first — there isn't enough safety data for most of the herbs in this formula.

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

Assessment coverage: 11 of 19 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Aug 22, 2024.

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 Imperial Garden, straight from the product label.

Brand Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs
Barcode (UPC) 679372001429
Net contents 100 Vegetarian Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Aug 22, 2024
DSLD ID 316902
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 Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs, 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
33
UPC/BARCODE
679372001429
IngredientAmount% DV
Proprietary Extract Formula1500 mg--
Goji Berry Extract0 NP--
Schizandra fruit extract0 NP--
Achyranthes Root Extract0 NP--
Chinese Ginseng root extract0 NP--
Fennel seed extract0 NP--
Cordyceps Mycelium Extract, Powder0 NP--
Morinda root extract0 NP--
Eucommia bark extract0 NP--
Chinese Yam rhizome extract0 NP--
Cornus Fruit Extract0 NP--
Polygala root extract0 NP--
Poria sclerotium extract0 NP--
Cinnamon twig extract0 NP--
Epimedium leaf extract0 NP--
Cistanche Stem Extract0 NP--
Red Jujube Date extract0 NP--
Rubus Fruit Extract0 NP--
Broussonetia Fruit Extract0 NP--
Rehmannia Root Extract, Prepared0 NP--

Other ingredients: Pullulan Polysaccharide, Rice, Powder, Bamboo Extract, Powder, Rice extract Blend

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.
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.

Formula

Imperial Garden is a potent formula that nourishes Jing Essence. Made from the finest Chinese herbs, this formula is extremely safe and effective.

Imperial Garden 500 mg each

Pullulan caps - 100% natural, water-soluble polysaccharide produced through a fermentation process; vegetable origin; non-GMO; no starch, preservatives or chemical modifications; gluten free.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: Take 3 capsules, 2 times per day or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Formulation

Pullulan caps - 100% natural, water-soluble polysaccharide produced through a fermentation process; vegetable origin; non-GMO; no starch, preservatives or chemical modifications; gluten free.

Precautions

Keep out of the reach of children.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs Health Deserves Cultivation

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

See for yourself

Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs label

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

Imperial Garden 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 Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs

These are the 19 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size3 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container33 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 Extract Formula

1500 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Pullulan Polysaccharide, Rice, Powder, Bamboo Extract, Powder, Rice extract Blend. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Imperial Garden?

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
1,624Drugs
2 Major 1,622 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Chinese Ginseng root extract 1,130
Goji Berry Extract 1,000
Epimedium leaf extract 963
Schizandra fruit extract 803
Fennel seed extract 740

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Imperial Garden interact with 1,624 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

10 of the 19 ingredients in Imperial Garden interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Chinese Ginseng root extract Goji Berry Extract Epimedium leaf extract Schizandra fruit extract Fennel seed extract Cinnamon twig extract Poria sclerotium extract Rehmannia Root Extract, Prepared Cordyceps Mycelium Extract, Powder Morinda root extract

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Imperial Garden 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.

Chinese Ginseng root extract20 drug types · 1,130 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

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

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Caffeine

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

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

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

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

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Estrogens

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Furosemide (Lasix)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Imatinib (Gleevec)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Insulin

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Midazolam (Versed)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Nifedipine (Procardia)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Qt Interval-Prolonging Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Raltegravir (Isentress)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Selegiline (Eldepryl)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Stimulant Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

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

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Fexofenadine (Allegra)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lopinavir/Ritonavir (Kaletra)

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

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Chinese Ginseng root extract full monograph & interactions

Goji Berry Extract8 drug types · 1,000 drugs

Warfarin (Coumadin)

Goji can increase the effects of warfarin and possibly increase the risk of bleeding.
There are at least 5 case reports of increased international normalized ratio (INR) in patients stabilized on warfarin who began drinking goji juice, concentrated goji tea, or goji wine. Goji may inhibit the metabolism of warfarin by cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9).

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of goji root bark, but not goji fruit, with antihypertensive drugs might have additive effects.
Animal and in vitro research suggest that goji root bark has hypotensive effects. However, goji fruit juice does not appear to reduce systolic or diastolic blood pressure in humans.

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

Theoretically, goji berry might inhibit CYP2C19 and reduce metabolism of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro research shows that goji berry tincture and juice inhibit CYP2C19 enzymes. Concomitant use with goji may decrease metabolism and increase levels of CYP2C19 substrates. However, this has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, goji berry might inhibit CYP2C9 and reduce metabolism of CYP2C9 substrates.
In vitro research shows that goji berry tincture and juice inhibit CYP2C9 enzymes. Additionally, multiple case reports suggest that goji berry concentrated tea and juice inhibit the metabolism of warfarin, a CYP2C9 substrate. Concomitant use with goji may decrease metabolism and increase levels of CYP2C9 substrates.

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

Theoretically, goji berry might inhibit CYP2D6 and reduce metabolism of CYP2D6 substrates.
In vitro research shows that goji berry juice inhibits CYP2D6 enzymes. Concomitant use with goji may decrease metabolism and increase levels of CYP2D6 substrates. However, this has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, goji berry might inhibit CYP3A4 and reduce metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that goji berry juice inhibits CYP3A4 enzymes. Concomitant use with goji may decrease metabolism and increase levels of CYP3A4 substrates. However, this has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Flecainide (Tambocor)

Theoretically, goji berry might increase the levels and clinical effects of flecainide.
In one case report, a 75-year-old patient stable on flecainide and warfarin presented to the emergency room with fainting and pleomorphic arrhythmia caused by flecainide toxicity. Flecainide toxicity was attributed to drinking 1-2 glasses of concentrated goji tea daily for 2 weeks. Theoretically, goji may have inhibited the cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) metabolism of flecainide.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of goji fruit polysaccharides or goji root bark with antidiabetes drugs might have additive effects.
Animal and in vitro research show that goji root bark and fruit polysaccharides might have hypoglycemic effects. However, clinical research has only shown that taking goji fruit polysaccharides with or without antidiabetes drugs modestly reduces postprandial glucose when compared with control, with no reports of hypoglycemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Goji Berry Extract full monograph & interactions

Epimedium leaf extract6 drug types · 963 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the risk of bleeding.
In vitro research and animal research shows that horny goat weed can inhibit platelet aggregation and thrombus formation. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the risk of hypotension.
Laboratory research suggests that horny goat weed might have hypotensive effects. This effect has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the effects and side effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro, horny goat weed leaf extract inhibits CYP1A2. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the effects and side effects of CYP2B6 substrates.
In vitro, horny goat weed leaf extract inhibits CYP2B6. This effect has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, horny goat weed might increase the effects and side effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro, horny goat weed extract inhibits CYP3A4 and suppresses CYP3A4 mRNA expression. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, concomitant use of horny goat weed with estrogens might increase their therapeutic and adverse effects.
In vitro evidence suggests that horny goat weed has estrogenic activity. In clinical research, horny goat weed has been shown to increase blood levels of estrogen in some females.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Epimedium leaf extract full monograph & interactions

Schizandra fruit extract12 drug types · 803 drugs

Cyclophosphamide

Theoretically, schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of cyclophosphamide.
In vitro research shows that schisandra increases the concentration of cyclophosphamide, likely through inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4. After multiple doses of the schisandra constituents schisandrin A and schisantherin A, the maximum concentration of cyclophosphamide was increased by 7% and 75%, respectively, while the overall exposure to cyclophosphamide was increased by 29% and 301%, respectively.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of cyclosporine.
A small observational study in children with aplastic anemia found that taking schisandra with cyclosporine increased cyclosporine trough levels by 93% without increasing the risk of adverse events. However, the dose of cyclosporine was reduced in 9% of children to maintain appropriate cyclosporine blood concentrations.

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

Theoretically, schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro research shows that schisandra inhibits CYP2C19, and animal research shows that schisandra increases the concentration of voriconazole, a CYP2C19 substrate. Theoretically, schisandra may also inhibit the metabolism of other CYP2C19 substrates. This effect has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
In vitro and animal research suggests that schisandra induces CYP2C9 enzymes. This effect has not been reported in humans.

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

Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Most clinical and laboratory research shows that schisandra, administered either as a single dose or up to twice daily for 14 days, inhibits CYP3A4 and increases the concentration of CYP3A4 substrates such as cyclophosphamide, midazolam, tacrolimus, and talinolol. Although one in vitro and animal study shows that schisandra may induce CYP3A4 metabolism, this effect appears to be overpowered by schisandra's CYP3A4 inhibitory activity and has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Midazolam (Versed)

Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of midazolam.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy adults shows that taking schisandra extract (Hezheng Pharmaceutical Co.) containing deoxyschizandrin 33.75 mg twice daily for 8 days and a single dose of midazolam 15 mg on day 8 increases the overall exposure to midazolam by about 119%, increases the peak plasma level of midazolam by 86%, and decreases midazolam clearance by about 52%. This effect has been attributed to inhibition of CYP3A4 by schisandra.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research shows that schisandra extracts and constituents such as schisandrin B inhibit P-glycoprotein mediated efflux in intestinal cells and in P-glycoprotein over-expressing cell lines. Additionally, a small clinical study shows that schisandra increases the peak concentration and overall exposure to talinolol, a P-glycoprotein probe substrate. Theoretically, schisandra might inhibit the efflux of other P-glycoprotein substrates.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Sirolimus (Rapamune)

Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of sirolimus.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking 3 capsules of schisandra (Hezheng Pharmaceutical Company) containing a total of 33.75 mg deoxyschizandrin twice daily for 13 days and then taking a single dose of sirolimus 2 mg increases the overall exposure and peak level of sirolimus by two-fold. This effect is thought to be due to inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 by schisandra, as well as possible inhibition of the P-glycoprotein drug transporter.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of tacrolimus.
Clinical research in healthy children and adults, transplant patients, and patients with nephrotic syndrome and various rheumatic immunologic disorders shows that taking schisandra with tacrolimus increases tacrolimus peak levels by 183% to 268%, prolongs or delays time to peak tacrolimus concentrations, increases overall exposure to tacrolimus by 126% to 343%, and decreases tacrolimus clearance by 19% to 73%. This effect is thought to be due to inhibition of P-glycoprotein drug transporter and CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 by schisandra. Some clinical and observational studies suggest that schisandra increases tacrolimus levels similarly in both expressors and non-expressors of CYP3A5, while other studies suggest it does so to a greater degree in CYP3A5 expressors than non-expressors. Animal research suggests that the greatest increase in tacrolimus levels occurs when schisandra is taken either concomitantly or up to 2 hours before tacrolimus, and clinical and observational research in humans suggests that schisandra may increase whole blood levels of tacrolimus and decrease clearance of tacrolimus in a dose-dependent manner.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Talinolol

Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of talinolol.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking schisandra extract 300 mg twice daily for 14 days with a single dose of talinolol 100 mg on day 14 increases the peak talinolol level by 51% and the overall exposure to talinolol by 47%. This effect is thought to be due to the possible inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 and P-glycoprotein by schisandra. tly.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Voriconazole (Vfend)

Theoretically, schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of voriconazole.
Animal research shows that oral schisandra given daily for 1 or 14 days increases levels of intravenously administered voriconazole, a cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 substrate. This effect is thought to be due to inhibition of CYP2C19 by schisandra. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of warfarin.
Animal research suggests that oral schisandra extract, given daily for 6 days, reduces levels of intravenously administered warfarin. This effect might be due to the induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 metabolism by schisandra. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Schizandra fruit extract full monograph & interactions

Fennel 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
Fennel seed extract full monograph & interactions

Cinnamon twig extract2 drug types · 442 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, cassia cinnamon may have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
Cassia cinnamon may lower blood glucose levels, and have additive effects in patients treated with antidiabetic agents. Dose adjustments to diabetes medications might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, large doses of cassia cinnamon might cause additive effects when used with hepatotoxic drugs.
There is some concern that ingesting large amounts of cassia cinnamon for an extended duration might cause hepatotoxicity in some people. Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which can cause hepatotoxicity in animal models. In humans, very high doses of coumarin from 50-7000 mg/day can result in hepatotoxicity that resolves when coumarin use is discontinued. Lower amounts might also cause liver problems in sensitive people, such as those with liver disease or those taking potentially hepatotoxic agents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cinnamon twig extract full monograph & interactions

Poria sclerotium extract3 drug types · 417 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, poria mushroom might decrease the clinical effects of anticholinergic drugs.
In animal research, poria mushroom essential oil reduces acetylcholinesterase activity. This interaction has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, poria mushroom might have additive effects when used with cholinergic drugs.
In animal research, poria mushroom essential oil reduces acetylcholinesterase activity. This interaction has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking poria mushroom extract may enhance the therapeutic and adverse effects of sedatives.
Animal research shows that poria mushroom extract has sedative properties. This interaction has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Poria sclerotium extract full monograph & interactions

Rehmannia Root Extract, Prepared2 drug types · 258 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, rehmannia might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Animal research shows that rehmannia may have hypoglycemic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, rehmannia might increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research shows that rehmannia may have hypotensive effects. Laboratory research shows that formulations of dried and processed rehmannia root inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Rehmannia Root Extract, Prepared full monograph & interactions

Cordyceps Mycelium Extract, Powder3 drug types · 249 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, cordyceps may increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
In vitro and animal research suggests that cordyceps extract inhibits platelet aggregation and function. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, concurrent use of cordyceps might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Animal and in vitro research suggests that cordyceps stimulates the immune system. However, limited clinical research suggests that taking cordyceps may lower the necessary therapeutic dose of the immunosuppressant cyclosporine, which suggests that cordyceps may have an immunosuppressive effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Testosterone

Theoretically, concurrent use of cordyceps and testosterone might have additive effects.
Animal research suggests that cordyceps can increase testosterone levels. The clinical significance of this finding is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cordyceps Mycelium Extract, Powder full monograph & interactions

Morinda root extract1 drug type · 86 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Animal research shows that taking ba ji tian extracts might increase or decrease blood glucose levels. Theoretically ba ji tian might have additive effects or attenuate the effects antidiabetes drugs. Monitor blood glucose levels closely; dose adjustments of antidiabetes drugs might be necessary. Some antidiabetes drugs include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, metformin (Glucophage), pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Morinda root extract full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Imperial Garden, from the product label.

Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs

See all Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs products
Name
Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs
City
Los Angeles
State
CA
ZipCode
90036
Phone Number
(888) 558-6642
Web Address
www.dragonherbs.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs: Common Questions

Does Imperial Garden by Ron Teeguarden's Dragon Herbs interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Imperial Garden has a known interaction with 1,624 medications, including 2 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Imperial Garden contains 19 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.
What is this formula supposed to do?
Imperial Garden is a traditional Chinese herbal blend. In the data we hold, rehmannia root is rated possibly effective for chronic kidney disease, and fennel is possibly effective for menstrual cramps. The other ingredients do not have established evidence in our records. If you're taking it for a specific health condition, ask your pharmacist what science supports that use.
Can I take Imperial Garden while I'm pregnant?
No. The safety data advises against medicinal amounts of goji berry, schisandra, cordyceps, poria mushroom, and rehmannia during pregnancy due to limited safety data and traditional reports of effects on the uterus. Fennel and cinnamon in food amounts are likely fine, but medicinal doses are not well studied. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using any of this formula while pregnant.
Can I take Imperial Garden while breastfeeding?
The safety data recommend avoiding medicinal amounts of goji berry, schisandra, cordyceps, poria mushroom, and rehmannia while breastfeeding — there isn't enough reliable information. Fennel and cinnamon in food amounts are likely safe, but medicinal doses have not been well studied. Speak with your pharmacist or doctor to decide what's best for you and your baby.
Are there any side effects I should know about?
Most ingredients in this formula are generally well tolerated, but side effects have been reported. Goji may rarely cause allergic reactions or liver inflammation. Schisandra can cause heartburn, stomach upset, or loss of appetite. Fennel may cause stomach discomfort or, very rarely, seizures or asthma. Cordyceps can cause constipation or diarrhea. Cinnamon in high doses over time carries concern for liver damage. If you notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking it and talk to your pharmacist.
What is goji berry used for in this formula?
Goji berry is a traditional Chinese tonic ingredient included in Imperial Garden for general wellness. However, the evidence we hold does not establish that it works for any specific condition — all its effectiveness ratings are insufficient evidence to rate.
Is this product safe to take long-term?
Most of these ingredients are generally well tolerated in the short term, but high-quality long-term safety data are limited. Cinnamon at high supplement doses carries concern for liver damage if used over extended periods. If you're considering this long-term, talk with your pharmacist about which ingredients, at what dose, are appropriate for you.

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

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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.

Imperial Garden label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Imperial Garden’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Goji

Interacts with 1,000 drugs

Goji berries are a nutritious fruit rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and plant polysaccharides, and they are safe for most people as a food. While they are popular for eye health, immune supp...

Read the full Goji monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Schisandra

Interacts with 803 drugs

Schisandra is a traditional Chinese medicine berry used as an adaptogen for stress, fatigue, and liver support. Human evidence is limited and most claims are not well proven, but it appears...

Read the full Schisandra monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Panax Ginseng

Interacts with 1,130 drugs

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

Read the full Panax Ginseng monograph → 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

Cordyceps

Interacts with 249 drugs

Cordyceps is a fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine for energy, exercise performance, and lung and immune support. Human research is limited and mostly low quality, so its benefits ar...

Read the full Cordyceps monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Ba Ji Tian

Interacts with 86 drugs

Ba Ji Tian is a root used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, mostly to 'tonify the kidneys' and support energy, sexual function, and bone health. Modern evidence in humans is very limited, and...

Read the full Ba Ji Tian monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

American Dogwood

American Dogwood is a North American flowering tree whose bark was used in traditional folk medicine, especially as a substitute for quinine to treat fevers. There is very little modern huma...

Read the full American Dogwood monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Poria Mushroom

Interacts with 417 drugs

Poria mushroom (Fu Ling) is a fungus long used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, mainly as a mild diuretic and digestive and calming aid. Modern scientific evidence in humans is very limited,...

Read the full Poria Mushroom monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Cassia Cinnamon

Interacts with 442 drugs

Cassia cinnamon is the common, inexpensive cinnamon used in cooking, and it is also taken as a supplement, most often for blood sugar support. The evidence for its health benefits is mixed a...

Read the full Cassia Cinnamon monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Horny Goat Weed

Interacts with 963 drugs

Horny goat weed (Epimedium) is a traditional Chinese herb most often marketed for low libido and erectile problems, but solid human evidence for these uses is lacking. While short-term use s...

Read the full Horny Goat Weed monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Rehmannia

Interacts with 258 drugs

Rehmannia is a root used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, often to 'tonify' the kidneys and support energy or blood health. Human evidence for most modern uses is limited, so i...

Read the full Rehmannia monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Imperial Garden'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 177 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.

Goji 14 references
  1. Huang KC. The Pharmacology of Chinese Herbs. 2nd ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1999.
  2. Lam AY, Elmer GW, Mohutsky MA. Possible interaction between warfarin and Lycium Barbarum. Ann Pharmacother 2001;35:1199-201.
  3. Leung H, Hung A, Hui AC, Chan TY. Warfarin overdose due to the possible effects of Lycium barbarum L. Food Chem Toxicol 2008;46:1860-2. PubMed
  4. Amagase H, Nance DM. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical study of the general effects of a standardized Lycium barbarum (goji) juice, GoChi. J Altern Complement Med 2008;14:403-12.
  5. Rivera, C. A., Ferro, C. L., Bursua, A. J., and Gerber, B. S. Probable interaction between Lycium barbarum (goji) and warfarin. Pharmacotherapy 2012;32(3):e50-e53.
  6. Monzon, Ballarin S., Lopez-Matas, M. A., Saenz, Abad D., Perez-Cinto, N., and Carnes, J. Anaphylaxis associated with the ingestion of Goji berries (Lycium barbarum). J.Investig.Allergol.Clin.Immunol. 2011;21(7):567-570.
  7. Franco, M., Monmany, J., Domingo, P., and Turbau, M. [Autoimmune hepatitis triggered by consumption of Goji berries]. Med.Clin.(Barc.) 9-22-2012;139(7):320-321.
  8. Jiménez-Encarnación E, Ríos G, Muñoz-Mirabal A, Vilá LM. Euforia-induced acute hepatitis in a patient with scleroderma. BMJ Case Rep 2012;2012. PubMed
  9. Larramendi CH, García-Abujeta JL, Vicario S, García-Endrino A, López-Matas MA, García-Sedeño MD, et al. Goji berries (Lycium barbarum): Risk of allergic reactions in individuals with food allergy. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2012;22(5):345-50.
  10. Cai H, Liu F, Zuo P, Huang G, Song Z, Wang T, et al. Practical application of antidiabetic efficacy of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide in patients with type 2 diabetes. Med Chem. 2015;11(4):383-90.
  11. Potterat O. Goji (Lycium barbarum and L. chinense): Phytochemistry, pharmacology and safety in the perspective of traditional uses and recent popularity. Planta Med 2010;76(1):7-19.
  12. Guzmán CE, Guzmán-Moreno CG, Assad-Morell JL, Edgar Francisco Carrizales-Sepúlveda EF. Flecainide toxicity associated with the use of goji berries: a case report. Eur Heart J Case Rep. 2021;5(6):ytab204. PubMed
  13. Liu R, Tam TW, Mao J, et al. In vitro activity of Lycium barbarum (Goji) against major human phase I metabolism enzymes. Complement Integr Med. 2016;13(3):257-265.
  14. Zhang J, Tian L, Xie B. Bleeding due to a probable interaction between warfarin and Gouqizi (Lycium Barbarum L.). Toxicol Rep. 2015;2:1209-1212. PubMed

See these in context on the Goji monograph →

Schisandra 26 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. Iwata H, Tezuka Y, Kadota S, et al. Identification and characterization of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors in Schisandra fruit extract. Drug Metab Dispos 2004;32:1351-8. PubMed
  3. Mu Y, Zhang J, Zhang S, et al. Traditional Chinese medicines Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra chinensis Baill) and Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch) activate pregnane X receptor and increase warfarin clearance in rats. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2006;316:1369-77. PubMed
  4. Xin HW, Wu XC, Li Q, et al. Effects of Schisandra sphenanthera extract on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in healthy volunteers. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2007;64:469-75.
  5. Qin XL, Bi HC, Wang XD, et al. Mechanistic understanding of the different effects of Wuhzi Tablet (Schisandra sphenanthera extract) on the absorption and first-pass intestinal and hepatic metabolism of tacrolimus (FK506). Int J Pharm 2010;389:114-21.
  6. Makino, T., Mizuno, F., and Mizukami, H. Does a kampo medicine containing schisandra fruit affect pharmacokinetics of nifedipine like grapefruit juice? Biol.Pharm.Bull. 2006;29(10):2065-2069. PubMed
  7. Fan L, Mao XQ, Tao GY, Wang G, Jiang F, Chen Y, Li Q, Zhang W, Lei HP, Hu DL, Huang YF, Wang D, Zhou HH. Effect of Schisandra chinensis extract and Ginkgo biloba extract on the pharmacokinetics of talinolol in healthy volunteers. Xenobiotica. 2009 Mar;39(
  8. Jiang W, Wang X, Xu X, Kong L. Effect of Schisandra sphenanthera extract on the concentration of tacrolimus in the blood of liver transplant patients. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2010 Mar;48(3):224-9. PubMed
  9. Xin HW, Wu XC, Li Q, Yu AR, Xiong L. Effects of Schisandra sphenanthera extract on the pharmacokinetics of midazolam in healthy volunteers. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2009 May;67(5):541-6.
  10. Li J, Chen S, Qin X, et at. Wuzhi Tablet (<i>Schisandra sphenanthera</i> Extract) is a Promising Tacrolimus-Sparing Agent for Renal Transplant Recipients Who are CYP3A5 Expressers: a Two-Phase Prospective Study. Drug Metab Dispos. 2017;45(11):1114-1119.
  11. Qin XL, Li JL, Wang SH, Chen X, Huang M, Bi HC. Co-administration of Wuzhi tablet (Schisandra sphenanthera extract) alters tacrolimus pharmacokinetics in a dose- and time-dependent manner in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2020;263:113233. PubMed
  12. Yuan F, Liang X, Chen X, Qin X, Tan C, Wang L. CYP2C19 is involved in the effect of Wuzhi tablet (Schisandra sphenanthera extract) and its constituents on the pharmacokinetics of intravenous voriconazole. Pharmazie. 2020;75(11):559-564. DOI
  13. Zhang Z, Lu X, Dong L, Ma J, Fan X. Clinical observation on the effect of Wuzhi soft capsule on FK506 concentration in membranous nephropathy patients. Medicine (Baltimore). 2019;98(48):e18150. PubMed
  14. Yoo HH, Lee M, Lee MW, Lim SY, Shin J, Kim DH. Effects of Schisandra lignans on P-glycoprotein-mediated drug efflux in human intestinal Caco-2. Planta Med. 2007;73(5):444-50.
  15. Qiangrong P, Wang T, Lu Q, Hu X. Schisandrin B--a novel inhibitor of P-glycoprotein. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2005;335(2):406-11. PubMed
  16. Chen L, Ji N, Zhang M, Chen W. The influence of Wuzhi capsule on the pharmacokinetics of cyclophosphamide. Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2021. PubMed
  17. Cheng X, Ma J, Xu X, Zhang L, Wang X, Wu R. Effect of Wuzhi capsules on cyclosporine A concentration in children with aplastic anemia immunotherapy: a single-center observational study. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2022:1-5. PubMed
  18. Cheng F, Li Q, Wang J, Zeng F, Zhang Y. Effects and safety evaluation of Wuzhi capsules combined with tacrolimus for the treatment of kidney transplantation recipients. J Clin Pharm Ther 2021;46(6):1636-49. PubMed
  19. Teng F, Wang W, Zhang W, et al. Effect of hepar-protecting Wuzhi capsule on pharmacokinetics and dose-effect character of tacrolimus in healthy volunteers. Biopharm Drug Dispos 2022.
  20. Kou K, Sun X, Li M, et al. Beneficial effects of Wuzhi capsule on tacrolimus blood concentrations in liver transplant patients with different donor-recipient CYP3A5 genotypes. J Clin Pharm Ther 2022;47(2):200-10. PubMed
  21. Peng Y, Jiang F, Zhou R, et al. Clinical evaluation of the efficacy and safety of co-administration of Wuzhi capsule and tacrolimus in adult Chinese patients with myasthenia gravis. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2021;17:2281-9. PubMed
  22. Chen P, Dai R, She Y, et al. Prediction of tacrolimus and Wuzhi tablet pharmacokinetic interaction magnitude in renal transplant recipients. Clin Transplant 2022;36(12):e14807. PubMed
  23. Qu J, Bian R, Liu B, et al. The pharmacokinetic study of tacrolimus and Wuzhi capsule in Chinese liver transplant patients. Front Pharmacol 2022;13:956166. PubMed
  24. Zhou Y, Huang X, Liu L, et al. Effect of Wuzhi preparations on tacrolimus in CYP3A5 expressers during the early period after transplantation: A real-life experience from heart transplant recipients. Transpl Immunol 2023;76:101748. PubMed
  25. Huang Q, Lin X, Wang Y, et al. Tacrolimus pharmacokinetics in pediatric nephrotic syndrome: A combination of population pharmacokinetic modelling and machine learning approaches to improve individual prediction. Front Pharmacol 2022;13:942129. PubMed
  26. Wang CB, Zhang YJ, Zhao MM, Zhao LM. Population pharmacokinetic analyses of tacrolimus in non-transplant patients: a systematic review. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2023;79(7):897-913. PubMed

See these in context on the Schisandra monograph →

Panax Ginseng 66 references
  1. Scaglione F, Cattaneo G, Alessandria M, Cogo R. Efficacy and safety of the standardized Ginseng extract G115 for potentiating vaccination against the influenza syndrome and protection against the common cold. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1996;22:65-72.
  2. Palmer BV, Montgomery AC, Monteiro JC, et al. Gin Seng and mastalgia [letter]. BMJ 1978;1:1284. PubMed
  3. Hopkins MP, Androff L, Benninghoff AS. Ginseng face cream and unexplained vaginal bleeding. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1988;159:1121-2. PubMed
  4. Greenspan EM. Ginseng and vaginal bleeding [letter]. JAMA 1983;249:2018.
  5. Gonzalez-Seijo JC, Ramos YM, Lastra I. Manic episode and ginseng: Report of a possible case. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1995;15:447-8.
  6. Dega H, Laporte JL, Frances C, et al. Ginseng as a cause of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Lancet 1996;347:1344.
  7. Hamid S, Rojter S, Vierling J. Protracted cholestatic hepatitis after the use of Prostata. Ann Intern Med 1997;127:169-70.
  8. Shader RI, Greenblatt DJ. Phenelzine and the dream machine-ramblings and reflections. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1985;5:65. PubMed
  9. Jones BD, Runikis AM. Interaction of ginseng with phenelzine. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1987;7:201-2. PubMed
  10. Janetzky K, Morreale AP. Probable interaction between warfarin and ginseng. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1997;54:692-3. PubMed
  11. Becker BN. Ginseng-induced diuretic resistance. JAMA 1996;276:606-7. PubMed
  12. Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA. Clinical assessment of potential cytochrome P450-mediated herb-drug interactions. AAPS Ann Mtg & Expo Indianapolis, IN: 2000; Oct 29 - Nov 2:presentation #3460.
  13. Park HJ, Lee JH, Song YB, Park KH. Effects of dietary supplementation of lipophilic fraction from Panax ginseng on cGMP and cAMP in rat platelets and on blood coagulation. Biol Pharm Bull 1996;19:1434-9. PubMed
  14. Zhu M, Chan KW, Ng LS, et al. Possible influences of ginseng on the pharmacodynamics of warfarin in rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:175-80.
  15. Choi HK, Jung GW, Moon KH, et al. Clinical study of SS-Cream in patients with lifelong premature ejaculation. Urology 2000;55:257-61. PubMed
  16. Shin HR, Kim JY, Yun TK, et al. The cancer-preventive potential of Panax ginseng: a review of human and experimental evidence. Cancer Causes Control 2000;11:565-76. PubMed
  17. Siegel RK. Ginseng Abuse Syndrome. JAMA 1979;241:1614-5. DOI
  18. Palop-Larrea V, Gonzalvez-Perales JL, Catalan-Oliver C, et al. Metrorrhagia and ginseng. Ann Pharmacother 2000;34:1347-8. PubMed
  19. Caron MF, Hotsko AL, Robertson S, et al. Electrocardiographic and hemodynamic effects of Panax ginseng. Ann Pharmacother 2002;36:758-63..
  20. Eagon PK, Elm MS, Hunter DS, et al. Medicinal herbs: modulation of estrogen action. Era of Hope Mtg, Dept Defense; Breast Cancer Res Prog, Atlanta, GA 2000;Jun 8-11.
  21. Chan LY, Chiu PY, Lau TK. An in-vitro study of ginsenoside Rb(1)-induced teratogenicity using a whole rat embryo culture model. Hum Reprod 2003;18:2166-8..
  22. Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA, et al. Cytochrome P450 phenotypic ratios for predicting herb-drug interactions in humans. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2002;72:276-87.. PubMed
  23. Wiklund IK, Mattsson LA, Lindgren R, et al. Effects of a standardized ginseng extract on quality of life and physiological parameters in symptomatic postmenopausal women: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res 1999;19:89-99..
  24. Hammond TG, Whitworth JA. Adverse reactions to ginseng [letter]. Med J Aust 1981;1:492.. PubMed
  25. Punnonen R, Lukola A. Oestrogen-like effect of ginseng. Br Med J 1980;281:1110.. PubMed
  26. Lee YJ, Jin YR, Lim WC, et al. Ginsenoside-Rb1 acts as a weak phytoestrogen in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Arch Pharm Res 2003;26:58-63.. PubMed
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Cordyceps 14 references
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Ba Ji Tian 2 references
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American Dogwood 1 reference
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Poria Mushroom 3 references
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Cassia Cinnamon 20 references
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Horny Goat Weed 11 references
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Rehmannia 3 references
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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

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