Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Based on 8 of 10 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Intestinal Drawing Formula Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by HealthForce

Intestinal Drawing Formula label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Major
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Intestinal Drawing Formula 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

Intestinal Drawing Formula is a dietary supplement by HealthForce with 10 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for thyroid support, iodine source, weight management.Based on those ingredients, 2,200 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Marshmallow, activated Charcoal, Plantain. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce

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

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Aug 13, 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 10 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label doesn't break down how much of each component you get.

Intestinal Drawing Formula contains 10 ingredients, most of them herbal: kelp (also called Fucus vesiculosus), marshmallow, activated charcoal, carob powder, plantain (a type of psyllium), slippery elm bark, nopal cactus, natural zeolite clay, flaxseed meal, and volcanic bentonite clay. The blend is listed as proprietary, meaning the exact amount of each isn't disclosed on the label.

There are no inactive fillers or binders listed—the formula is delivered in capsule form.

Does it work?

Strong 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
Strong

Clinical evidence supports at least one of this product's ingredients for its stated purpose.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: intestinal cleanse and digestive health.
  • We looked for evidence on: Constipation, Diarrhea, Dyspepsia, Flatulence, Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Black Psyllium is rated "Effective" for Constipation (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Carob is rated "Possibly Effective" for Diarrhea.
  • Also on file: Flaxseed is rated "Possibly Effective" for Constipation.

The evidence supporting this formula's uses is limited. Plantain (psyllium) is effective for constipation and shows likely effectiveness for heart health; carob and flaxseed are each possibly effective for constipation; and flaxseed is possibly effective for high cholesterol, blood sugar control, breast pain, and blood pressure.

For most of the other ingredients—kelp, marshmallow, activated charcoal (aside from poisoning, where it's possibly effective), nopal cactus, slippery elm, zeolite, and bentonite—the evidence we hold is insufficient to rate their effectiveness for any claimed use. Several ingredients lack any effectiveness ratings in our data altogether.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Fucus Vesiculosus Marshmallow Activated Charcoal Carob Black Psyllium Slippery Elm Prickly Pear Cactus Flaxseed

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 7 of the 8 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 8 of 8.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 8 of 8.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Kelp is the biggest safety concern here. Because of its high and variable iodine content, it may disrupt thyroid function and concentrate heavy metals; the facts advise against its use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Activated charcoal is generally well tolerated for short-term use but commonly causes constipation, black stools, bloating, and gas; rarely, it can cause bowel obstruction. Plantain (psyllium) is generally safe with adequate fluids but can cause bloating and flatulence that usually fade, and it carries a rare risk of bowel or esophageal blockage if taken with too little water.

Flaxseed may have hormone-like effects at supplement doses and isn't well studied during breastfeeding; the facts advise caution. Marshmallow, slippery elm, carob powder, and nopal cactus are generally well tolerated but have limited human safety data at supplement doses.

Natural zeolite clay and volcanic bentonite clay have no safety data on file.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Fucus Vesiculosus Marshmallow Activated Charcoal Carob Black Psyllium Slippery Elm Prickly Pear Cactus Flaxseed

Meds to double-check

Major interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Major identified

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

Why this rating?
  • 8 of the 8 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Black Psyllium, Activated Charcoal, Carob, Fucus Vesiculosus, Marshmallow, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications; lithium.
  • For scale: 2,201 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, double-check with your pharmacist or doctor if you take any oral medications—activated charcoal can significantly reduce how many drugs work. If you're on lithium, antithyroid drugs, thyroid hormone replacement, or diabetes medications (especially metformin), watch for these interactions: kelp may disrupt thyroid control; plantain may reduce metformin or diabetes drug absorption; and nopal cactus may lower blood sugar too far.

Moderate risks also apply to blood pressure medications (flaxseed), blood thinners (flaxseed, kelp, marshmallow), carbamazepine, olanzapine, estrogens, and antibiotics (flaxseed, plantain). Minor risks involve drug-metabolizing enzymes and several other oral medications.

If no interactions are listed for an ingredient we could check, no interactions are documented in our data—though that is not a guarantee none exist.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

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

This formula combines several traditional digestive and detoxification herbs with activated charcoal. If you're managing constipation or looking for general digestive support and don't take medications that interact with kelp, charcoal, psyllium, or flaxseed, it may be worth a trial—though evidence for most ingredients is thin.

Anyone on thyroid medication, lithium, diabetes drugs, blood pressure pills, blood thinners, or any regular oral medication should check their specific prescriptions against the interaction data before starting, since the risks here are real. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid it due to kelp's iodine content and insufficient data for most other ingredients.

Talk it over with your own doctor or pharmacist before adding this to your routine.

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

Assessment coverage: 8 of 10 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jul 25, 2014.

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 Intestinal Drawing Formula, straight from the product label.

Brand HealthForce
Net contents 0 Not Present
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jul 25, 2014
DSLD ID 35783
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegan, Vegetarian, 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 Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce, 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:
12 VeganCap(s)(TM), 6.6 Gram(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
12 VeganCap(s)(TM), 6.6 Gram(s)
Servings per container
9
IngredientAmount% DV
Proprietary Blend0 NP--
Kelp0 NP--
Marshmallow0 NP--
activated Charcoal0 NP--
Carob powder0 NP--
Plantain0 NP--
wildcrafted Slippery Elm0 NP--
Nopal Cactus0 NP--
natural Zeolite Clay0 NP--
Flax seed Meal0 NP--
volcanic Bentonite Clay0 NP--

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.
Brand IP Statement(s)

Of the Earth(TM)

100% TruGanic(TM)

Weekend Power Cleanse(TM)

Everything is in VeganCaps(TM)

Vitamineral(TM) Green

Probiotics: Massive array of implantable species and Natural Soil Organinisms(TM) (NSOs).

100% Actual Food(TM)

HealthForce Healing Cleanse(TM) Level 1. A Real Cleanse!

3 day Weekend Power Cleanse(TM) or 30 day Gentle Cleanse.

General Statements

This is an Actual Real Cleanse!

3 day INTENSIVE or up to 30 day GENTLE Cleanse

EASY TO FOLLOW ROUTINE WITH RESULTS!

Why the brown box! Fancy retail packing costs more money, which is passed on to you, the consumer. They can also contain harmful chlorine bleaches, dioxins and other toxic dyes. Because we hard-core care about your money and the environment, this box is 100% natural.

Green foods are perhaps the single most important addition you can make to your diet. They are foundational. For over 20 years, I have deeply immersed myself into providing the best possible foundation. Mother Nature gave us the substances we need for healing. It is my life path duty and great honor to assemble them for you.

100% Hard-Core

INGREDIENTS: V4.8 100% SUPERFOODS

From the Land ~Nettle Leaf ~Shavegrass (Horsetail) ~Alfalfa Leaf juice ~Dandelion Leaf juice ~Barley Grass juice ~Oat GRass juice ~Barley Grass ~Wheat Grass ~American Basil ~Holy Basil/tulsi ~Moringa Leaf ~Yacon Leaf ~Nopal Cactus ~Chickweed ~Ginger Root ~Broccoli juice ~Kale juice ~Spinach juice ~Parsley juice ~Carob Pod ~Amla Berry From the Waters ~Spirulina ~Chlorella From the Oceans ~Icelandic Kelp ~Dulse ~Nori ~Alaria ~Bladderwrack Enzymes (optimum absorption +) ~Protease ~Amylase ~Lipase ~Cellulase ~Bromelain ~Papain ~Alpha-Galactosidase Energitics ~Shilajit ~Magnetic ~Homeopathic ~Energetic ~Vibrational

Laboratory grown: 10,000,000,000+ hardy probiotics per 24 Capsules.

Magnetically Sanitized and Energized

Raw Food

The colon is one of our main detoxification routes. A sluggish bowel breeds toxicity that seriously adversely affects the health of the entire body. Regular bowel movements and a clean colon are foundational to better health. Even an apparently non-sluggish bowel that is full of anything other than largely whole plant foods (vegan) with their fiber intact can be a significant source of poor health (fresh, raw juices are purified, structured water are obvious exceptions and highly encouraged). This superior formulation has been designed to draw-in and absorb poisons from the bowel, (it "sucks" big time) allowing you to eliminate them and not re-absorb these poisons (an extremely common, everyday occurrence for most) - essential to take during a fast to avoid auto-intoxication. It also adds fibrous bulk (without psyllium that can irritate and bloat.) Nourishes, soothes and lubricates the intestines as it moves through.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not designed to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

Seals/Symbols

VEGAN V Earth Health Compassion

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

See for yourself

Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce label

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

Intestinal Drawing Formula 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 Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce

These are the 10 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size12 VeganCap(s)(TM) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container9 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

0 NP per serving
Interaction report

Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Intestinal Drawing Formula?

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
2,200Drugs
2,022 Major 116 Moderate 62 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Marshmallow 2,040
activated Charcoal 2,027
Plantain 2,025
Carob powder 2,022
wildcrafted Slippery Elm 2,022

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Intestinal Drawing Formula interact with 2,200 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

8 of the 10 ingredients in Intestinal Drawing Formula interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Marshmallow activated Charcoal Plantain Carob powder wildcrafted Slippery Elm Kelp Flax seed Meal Nopal Cactus

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Intestinal Drawing Formula 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.

Marshmallow3 drug types · 2,040 drugs

Lithium

Theoretically, due to potential diuretic effects, marshmallow might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.
Marshmallow is thought to have diuretic properties. To avoid lithium toxicity, the dose of lithium might need to be decreased when used with marshmallow.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, marshmallow flower might have antiplatelet effects.
Animal research suggests that marshmallow flower extract has antiplatelet effects. However, the root and leaf of marshmallow, not the flower, are the plant parts most commonly found in dietary supplements. Theoretically, use of marshmallow flower with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs can have additive effects, and might increase the risk for bleeding in some patients.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Oral Drugs

Theoretically, mucilage in marshmallow might impair absorption of oral drugs.
Marshmallow contains mucilage which can affect oral drug absorption. To avoid changes in absorption, take marshmallow 30-60 minutes after oral medications.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Marshmallow full monograph & interactions

activated Charcoal3 drug types · 2,027 drugs

Oral Drugs

Activated charcoal reduces systemic exposure to many drugs, including those that undergo enterohepatic recirculation, regardless of the route of administration.
Activated charcoal adsorbs various drugs and may reduce their absorption and/or half-life. Examples of affected drugs include acetaminophen, aminophylline, amiodarone, atenolol, carbamazepine, dapsone, digoxin, disopyramide, fluoxetine, indomethacin, moxifloxacin, nadolol, phenytoin, phenobarbital, piroxicam, quinine, sotalol, theophylline, tricyclic antidepressants, valproate, and verapamil. Avoid co-administration, except after drug overdose.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Alcohol (Ethanol)

The binding action of activated charcoal may be reduced by alcohol.
Alcohol may lower the adsorptive capacity of activated charcoal.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Activated charcoal may reduce the clinical effects of oral contraceptives.
Activated charcoal, taken in a dose of 5 grams four times daily for 3 days, may bind to, and reduce the absorption of, oral contraceptives, thereby limiting their effectiveness and increasing the risk of contraceptive failure. However, some clinical research shows that the risk for this interaction is minimal when activated charcoal is taken either 3 hours after or at least 12 hours before oral contraceptives.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
activated Charcoal full monograph & interactions

Plantain7 drug types · 2,025 drugs

Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Theoretically, black psyllium might reduce the effects of carbamazepine and increase the risk for convulsions.
Theoretically, black psyllium might reduce carbamazepine absorption. A preliminary study using blond psyllium reported decreased carbamazepine bioavailability due to binding of the drug to psyllium, as well as reduction of available fluid in the gut for dissolution of the drug. This interaction may also occur with black psyllium.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, taking black psyllium at the same time as lithium might reduce lithium absorption.
The fiber in black psyllium might reduce lithium absorption and plasma levels. Some case reports describe a reduction in plasma lithium levels with concomitant administration of blond psyllium. This was reversed when psyllium was stopped. This interaction may also occur with black psyllium.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Metformin (Glucophage)

Theoretically, black psyllium might increase the therapeutic and adverse effects of metformin.
Animal research shows that concurrent consumption of blond psyllium with metformin slows and increases the absorption of metformin. This interaction may also occur with black psyllium. To avoid changes in absorption, take psyllium 30-60 minutes after metformin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)

Theoretically, taking black psyllium at the same time as olanzapine might reduce olanzapine absorption.
The fiber in black psyllium might decrease the absorption of olanzapine. A single case report describes a reduction in the effectiveness of olanzapine when it was concomitantly administered with an unspecified type of psyllium 3 grams orally twice daily. This effect was reversed when psyllium was stopped.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Theoretically, taking black psyllium at the same time as digoxin might reduce digoxin absorption and decrease digoxin levels.
Psyllium might bind digoxin in the gut. However, some clinical evidence suggests that psyllium does not impact digoxin absorption.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Ethinyl Estradiol

Theoretically, taking black psyllium at the same time as ethinyl estradiol might alter levels of estradiol.
Concurrent use of blond psyllium with ethinyl estradiol results in a slight increase in the extent of ethinyl estradiol absorption and a slower rate of absorption. This is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Oral Drugs

Theoretically, psyllium might increase, decrease, or have no effect on the absorption of oral drugs.
Psyllium seems to have variable effects on drug absorption. To avoid changes in absorption, take psyllium 30-60 minutes after oral medications. Animal research shows that blond psyllium delays and increases the absorption of metformin and ethinyl estradiol. Case reports and animal research suggest that blond psyllium might reduce absorption of lithium, digoxin, olanzapine, and carbamazepine. Finally, some pharmacokinetic studies show that psyllium does not affect the absorption of levothyroxine or warfarin. Although many of these studies evaluated blond psyllium, the fiber content in black psyllium may have similar effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Plantain full monograph & interactions

Carob powder1 drug type · 2,022 drugs

Oral Drugs

Theoretically, carob might also impair the absorption of oral drugs.
Laboratory research shows that carob, when consumed as part of the diet or used as a thickening agent in infant formula, reduces the absorption of certain minerals. Take carob 30-60 minutes after oral medications.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Carob powder full monograph & interactions

wildcrafted Slippery Elm1 drug type · 2,022 drugs

Oral Drugs

Theoretically, slippery elm may slow the absorption and reduce serum levels of oral drugs.
Slippery elm inner bark contains mucilage, which may interfere with the absorption of orally administered drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
wildcrafted Slippery Elm full monograph & interactions

Kelp9 drug types · 891 drugs

Amiodarone (Cordarone)

Theoretically, combining Fucus vesiculosus with amiodarone might cause excessively high iodine levels.
Fucus vesiculosus contains high concentrations of iodine. Amiodarone contains 37.3% iodine and can increase iodine levels. Concomitant use might increase the risk of having excessive iodine levels and adversely affecting thyroid function. Monitor thyroid function.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Antithyroid Drugs

Due to its iodine content, Fucus vesiculosus might alter the effects of antithyroid drugs.
Fucus vesiculosus contains high concentrations of iodine. Iodine in high doses has been reported to cause both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, depending on the individual's past medical history. Taking Fucus vesiculosus while using antithyroid drugs could alter the effects of the antithyroid drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Concomitant use of Fucus vesiculosus and lithium has resulted in hyperthyroidism.
There is a case of hyperthyroidism occurring in a patient taking Fucus vesiculosus and lithium. Monitor thyroid hormones closely in patients taking lithium and Fucus vesiculosus concomitantly.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Due to its iodine content, Fucus vesiculosus might alter the effects of thyroid hormone.
Fucus vesiculosus contains high concentrations of iodine. Iodine in high doses has been reported to cause both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, depending on the individual's past medical history. Taking Fucus vesiculosus while using thyroid hormone could alter the effects of thyroid hormone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking Fucus vesiculosus with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
In vitro evidence suggests that a constituent of Fucus vesiculosus, known as fucoidan, has anticoagulant effects. However, in clinical research, fucoidan does not seem to have significant anticoagulant activity when taken orally, possibly due to poor absorption.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C8 (Cyp2C8) Substrates

Theoretically, concomitant use of Fucus vesiculosus with CYP2C8 substrates might increase the risk for adverse effects.
In vitro research shows that fucoidan, a constituent of Fucus vesiculosus, inhibits CYP2C8. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, concomitant use of Fucus vesiculosus with CYP2C9 substrates might increase the risk for adverse effects.
In vitro research shows that fucoidan, a constituent of Fucus vesiculosus, inhibits CYP2C9. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, concomitant use of Fucus vesiculosus with CYP2D6 substrates might alter the effects of these substrates.
In vitro research shows that fucoidan, a constituent of Fucus vesiculosus, both inhibits and induces CYP2D6. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, concomitant use of Fucus vesiculosus with CYP3A4 substrates might increase the risk for adverse effects.
In vitro research shows that fucoidan, a constituent of Fucus vesiculosus, inhibits CYP3A4. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Kelp full monograph & interactions

Flax seed Meal5 drug types · 597 drugs

Antibiotic Drugs

Theoretically, antibiotics might interfere with the metabolism of flaxseed constituents, which could potentially alter the effects of flaxseed.
Some potential benefits of flaxseed are thought to be due to its lignan content. Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), a major lignan precursor, is found in high concentrations in flaxseed. SDG is converted by bacteria in the colon to the lignans enterolactone and enterodiol. Antibiotics alter the flora of the colon, which could theoretically alter the metabolism of flaxseed.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, using flaxseed in combination with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding.
Some clinical evidence suggests that the oil contained in flaxseed can decrease platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, flaxseed might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk for hypoglycemia.
Some clinical research suggests that flaxseed can lower blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, flaxseed might have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.
Clinical research shows that daily flaxseed consumption, especially for longer than 12 weeks, modestly reduces blood pressure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, taking flaxseed might decrease the effects of estrogens.
Flaxseed contains lignans with mild estrogenic and possible antiestrogenic effects. The lignans seem to compete with circulating endogenous estrogen and might reduce estrogen binding to estrogen receptors, resulting in an anti-estrogen effect. It is unclear if this effect transfers to exogenously administered estrogens.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Flax seed Meal full monograph & interactions

Nopal Cactus1 drug type · 86 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Combining prickly pear cactus with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Case reports show that combining prickly pear cactus with antidiabetes drugs such as chlorpropamide, glyburide, glipizide, and metformin can increase the risk of hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes. Advise patients to monitor glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments may be necessary.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Nopal Cactus full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Intestinal Drawing Formula, from the product label.

HealthForce

See all HealthForce products
Phone Number
800-357-2717
Web Address
HealthForce.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce: Common Questions

Does Intestinal Drawing Formula by HealthForce interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Intestinal Drawing Formula has a known interaction with 2,200 medications, including 2022 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Intestinal Drawing Formula contains 10 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Is this formula safe to use while I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Kelp in this formula has high iodine that can disrupt the baby's thyroid during breastfeeding and poses safety concerns in pregnancy, so it should be avoided. For most of the other ingredients, there isn't enough reliable safety data during pregnancy or nursing either. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
What's the activated charcoal in here supposed to do?
Activated charcoal is used for its binding action in the digestive tract—the idea is that it binds to unwanted substances. It's been shown to work for accidental poisoning (possibly effective), but for other digestive uses listed in this formula, the evidence is limited or lacking. Keep in mind it also binds to many medications, which is why you need to check interactions.
I've heard plantain (psyllium) is good for constipation. Is it effective in this formula?
Yes, plantain is effective for constipation and shows likely benefit for heart health. But take it with plenty of water—without enough fluids, it can actually block your bowel or esophagus. You'll also notice bloating and gas at first, which usually goes away as your body adjusts.
Will this interact with my thyroid medication?
Possibly, yes. The kelp in this formula has very high iodine content, which can interfere with how your thyroid medication works and may cause both overactive and underactive thyroid problems. Before you start, show your exact thyroid medication to your pharmacist and ask them to check it against this formula's ingredients.
Can I take this with my blood pressure or diabetes medication?
That depends on which specific medication you take. Flaxseed may lower blood pressure and blood sugar further, and plantain can reduce absorption of some diabetes drugs like metformin. Nopal cactus also carries a risk of low blood sugar with diabetes medications. Check your exact prescriptions with your pharmacist before starting—don't skip this step.
What's nopal cactus in here, and does it work?
Nopal cactus (prickly pear) is possibly effective for blood sugar control, which is why it's included in a digestive formula. But evidence for its other claimed uses is insufficient. Common side effects are mild bloating, diarrhea, and nausea—and if you take diabetes medication, there's a risk your blood sugar could drop too low.

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.

Intestinal Drawing Formula label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Intestinal Drawing Formula’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Fucus Vesiculosus

Interacts with 891 drugs

Fucus vesiculosus (bladderwrack) is a brown seaweed rich in iodine that has been used traditionally for thyroid concerns, weight, and skin. There is little solid human evidence to support mo...

Read the full Fucus Vesiculosus monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Marshmallow

Interacts with 2,040 drugs

Marshmallow root is a traditional herb rich in soothing, gel-like fibers called mucilage, which is why it has long been used for coughs, sore throats, and stomach irritation. Evidence for th...

Read the full Marshmallow monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Activated Charcoal

Interacts with 2,027 drugs

Activated charcoal is a highly porous form of carbon that can bind certain substances in the gut, and it is used in hospitals to treat some poisonings and overdoses. For everyday uses like g...

Read the full Activated Charcoal monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Carob

Interacts with 2,022 drugs

Carob is a Mediterranean tree whose pods are widely used as a caffeine-free, naturally sweet cocoa alternative and as a thickener (carob gum). It is mostly eaten as a food and is generally w...

Read the full Carob monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Black Psyllium

Interacts with 2,025 drugs

Black psyllium is a soluble-fiber supplement made from the seeds of a Plantago plant, used mostly to ease constipation and support digestive health. It is best known and most studied for rel...

Read the full Black Psyllium monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Slippery Elm

Interacts with 2,022 drugs

Slippery elm is a traditional herbal remedy made from the inner bark of a North American elm tree, used mainly to soothe sore throats and irritated digestive tracts. Its mucilage can coat an...

Read the full Slippery Elm monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Prickly Pear Cactus

Interacts with 86 drugs

Prickly pear cactus is a desert plant whose pads and fruit are eaten as food and taken as a supplement, mainly for blood sugar, cholesterol, and hangover symptoms. Some small studies suggest...

Read the full Prickly Pear Cactus monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Flaxseed

Interacts with 597 drugs

Flaxseed is a nutritious food rich in fiber, omega-3 fats (ALA), and plant compounds called lignans. It is most reliably helpful for constipation and may modestly lower cholesterol, but evid...

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Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Intestinal Drawing Formula'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 110 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.

Fucus Vesiculosus 15 references
  1. Goodman GA, Rall TW, Nies AS, Taylor P. The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 9th ed.
  2. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
  3. Phaneuf D, Cote I, Dumas P, et al. Evaluation of the contamination of marine algae (Seaweed) from the St. Lawrence River and likely to be consumed by humans. Environ Res 1999;80:S175-S182. PubMed
  4. Durig J, Bruhn T, Zurborn KH, et al. Anticoagulant fucoidan fractions from Fucus vesiculosus induce platelet activation in vitro. Thromb Res 1997;85:479-91. PubMed
  5. Conz PA, La Greca G, Benedetti P, et al. Fucus vesiculosus: a nephrotoxic alga? Nephrol Dial Transplant 1998;13:526-7.
  6. Ohye H, Fukata S, Kanoh M, et al. Thyrotoxicosis caused by weight-reducing herbal medicines. Arch Intern Med 2005;165:831-4. PubMed
  7. Okamura K, Inoue K, Omae T. A case of Hashimoto's thyroiditis with thyroid immunological abnormality manifested after habitual ingestion of seaweed. Acta Endocrinol (Copenh) 1978;88:703-12. PubMed
  8. Agarwal SC, Crook JR, Pepper CB. Herbal remedies -- how safe are they? A case report of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation induced by herbal medication used for obesity. Int J Cardiol 2006;106:260-1. PubMed
  9. Sterling JB, Heymann WR. Potassium iodide in dermatology: a 19th century drug for the 21st century-uses, pharmacology, adverse effects, and contraindications. J Am Acad Dermatol 2000;43:691-7. PubMed
  10. Catania, M. A., Oteri, A., Caiello, P., Russo, A., Salvo, F., Giustini, E. S., Caputi, A. P., and Polimeni, G. Hemorrhagic cystitis induced by an herbal mixture. South.Med.J. 2010;103(1):90-92. PubMed
  11. Cumashi, A., Ushakova, N. A., Preobrazhenskaya, M. E., D'Incecco, A., Piccoli, A., Totani, L., Tinari, N., Morozevich, G. E., Berman, A. E., Bilan, M. I., Usov, A. I., Ustyuzhanina, N. E., Grachev, A. A., Sanderson, C. J., Kelly, M., Rabinovich, G. A., I
  12. Irhimeh, M. R., Fitton, J. H., and Lowenthal, R. M. Pilot clinical study to evaluate the anticoagulant activity of fucoidan. Blood Coagul.Fibrinolysis 2009;20(7):607-610. PubMed
  13. Arbaizar, B. and Llorca, J. [Fucus vesiculosus induced hyperthyroidism in a patient undergoing concomitant treatment with lithium]. Actas Esp.Psiquiatr. 2011;39(6):401-403.
  14. Church FC, Meade JB, Treanor RE, and et al. Antithrombin activity of fucoidan. The interaction of fucoidan with heparin cofactor II, antithrombin III, and thrombin. J Biol Chem 2-25-1989;264(6):3618-3623. DOI
  15. Mathew L, Burney M, Gaikwad A, et al. Preclinical evaluation of safety of fucoidan extracts from Undaria pinnatifida and Fucus vesiculosus for use in cancer treatment. Integr Cancer Ther 2017;16(4):572-84.

See these in context on the Fucus Vesiculosus monograph →

Marshmallow 5 references
  1. Monographs on the medicinal uses of plant drugs. Exeter, UK: European Scientific Co-op Phytother, 1997.
  2. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  3. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  4. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  5. Hage-Sleiman R, Mroueh M, Daher CF. Pharmacological evaluation of aqueous extract of Althaea officinalis flower grown in Lebanon. Pharm Biol 2011;49(3):327-33.

See these in context on the Marshmallow monograph →

Activated Charcoal 14 references
  1. Kaaja RJ, Kontula KK, Raiha A, Laatikainen T. Treatment of cholestasis of pregnancy with peroral activated charcoal. A preliminary study. Scand J Gastroenterol 1994;29:178-81.
  2. Anon. Position statement and practice guidelines on the use of multi-dose activated charcoal in the treatment of acute poisoning. American Academy of Clinical Toxicology; European Association of Poisons Centres and Clinical Toxicologists. J Toxicol Clin T
  3. Park GD, Spector R, Kitt TM. Superactivated charcoal versus cholestyramine for cholesterol lowering: a randomized cross-over trial. J Clin Pharmacol 1988;28:416-9. PubMed
  4. Hoegberg LC, Angelo HR, Christophersen AB, Christensen HR. Effect of ethanol and pH on the adsorption of acetaminophen (paracetamol) to high surface activated charcoal, in vitro studies. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 2002;40:59-67. PubMed
  5. Brahmi N, Kouraichi N, Thabet H, Amamou M. Influence of activated charcoal on the pharmacokinetics and the clinical features of carbamazepine poisoning. Am J Emerg Med 2006;24(4):440-3. PubMed
  6. Gude AB, Hoegberg LC, Angelo HR, Christensen HR. Dose-dependent adsorptive capacity of activated charcoal for gastrointestinal decontamination of a simulated paracetamol overdose in human volunteers. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2010;106(5)406-10. PubMed
  7. Wananukul W, Klaikleun S, Sriapha C, Tongpoo A. Effect of activated charcoal in reducing paracetamol absorption at supra-therapeutic dose. J Med Assoc Thai 2010;93(10):1145-9.
  8. Wang Z, Cui M, Tang L, et al. Oral activated charcoal suppresses hyperphosphataemia in haemodialysis patients. Nephrology (Carlton) 2012;17(7):616-20. PubMed
  9. Wang X, Mondal S, Wang J, et al. Effect of activated charcoal on apixaban pharmacokinetics in healthy subjects. Am J Cardiovasc Drugs 2014;14(2):147-54. PubMed
  10. Chyka PA, Seger D, Krenzelok EP, et al. Position paper: single-dose activated charcoal. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2005;43(2):61-87. PubMed
  11. Chiew AL, Gluud C, Brok J, Buckley NA. Interventions for paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018;2:CD003328. PubMed
  12. Elomaa K, Ranta S, Tuominen J, Lähteenmäki P. Charcoal treatment and risk of escape ovulation in oral contraceptive users. Hum Reprod. 2001;16(1):76-81. PubMed
  13. Gao Y, Wang G, Li Y, Lv C, Wang Z. Effects of oral activated charcoal on hyperphosphatemia and vascular calcification in Chinese patients with stage 3-4 chronic kidney disease. J Nephrol. 2019;32(2):265-72. PubMed
  14. Skov K, Graudal NA, Jürgens G. The effect of activated charcoal on drug exposure following intravenous administration: A meta-analysis. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2021;128(4):568-578. PubMed

See these in context on the Activated Charcoal monograph →

Carob 9 references
  1. Savino, F., Muratore, M. C., Silvestro, L., Oggero, R., and Mostert, M. Allergy to carob gum in an infant. J.Pediatr.Gastroenterol.Nutr. 1999;29(4):475-476. DOI
  2. Bosscher, D., Caillie-Bertrand, M., and Deelstra, H. Effect of thickening agents, based on soluble dietary fiber, on the availability of calcium, iron, and zinc from infant formulas. Nutrition 2001;17(7-8):614-618. PubMed
  3. van, der Brempt, X, Ledent, C., and Mairesse, M. Rhinitis and asthma caused by occupational exposure to carob bean flour. J.Allergy Clin.Immunol. 1992;90(6 Pt 1):1008-1010. PubMed
  4. Clarke, P. and Robinson, M. J. Thickening milk feeds may cause necrotising enterocolitis. Arch Dis.Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2004;89(3):F280. PubMed
  5. Harmuth-Hoene, A. E. and Schelenz, R. Effect of dietary fiber on mineral absorption in growing rats. J Nutr 1980;110(9):1774-1784. PubMed
  6. Scoditti, A., Peluso, P., Pezzuto, R., Giordano, T., and Melica, A. Asthma to carob bean flour. Ann.Allergy Asthma Immunol. 1996;77(1):81. PubMed
  7. Komericki P, Kränke B. Immediate hypersensitivity to carob pods. Contact Dermatitis. 2009;61(4):239-40. PubMed
  8. Bosscher D, Van Caillie-Bertrand M, Van Cauwenbergh R, Deelstra H. Availabilities of calcium, iron, and zinc from dairy infant formulas is affected by soluble dietary fibers and modified starch fractions. Nutrition. 2003;19(7-8):641-5. PubMed
  9. Jedrzejczyk M, Bartnik K, Funkowicz M, Toporowska-Kowalska E. FPIES Induced by Locust Bean Gum in an Infant. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2020;30(3):197-199. PubMed

See these in context on the Carob monograph →

Black Psyllium 18 references
  1. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  2. Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
  3. Covington TR, et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
  4. Etman M. Effect of a bulk forming laxative on the bioavailablility of carbamazepine in man. Drug Dev Ind Pharm 1995;21:1901-6.
  5. Perlman BB. Interaction between lithium salts and ispaghula husk. Lancet 1990;335:416.
  6. Vaswani SK, Hamilton RG, Valentine MD, Adkinson NF. Psyllium laxative-induced anaphylaxis, asthma, and rhinitis. Allergy 1996;51:266-8. PubMed
  7. Lantner RR, Espiritu BR, Zumerchik P, Tobin MC. Anaphylaxis following ingestion of a psyllium-containing cereal. JAMA 1990;264:2534-6. DOI
  8. Kaplan MJ. Anaphylactic reaction to "Heartwise." N Engl J Med 1990;323:1072-3. DOI
  9. Nordstrom M, Melander A, Robertsson E, Steen B. Influence of wheat bran and of a bulk-forming ispaghula cathartic on the bioavailability of digoxin in geriatric in-patients. Drug Nutr Interact 1987;5:67-9..
  10. Robinson DS, Benjamin DM, McCormack JJ. Interaction of warfarin and nonsystemic gastrointestinal drugs. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1971;12:491-5. PubMed
  11. Garcia JJ, Fernandez N, Diez MJ, et al. Influence of two dietary fibers in the oral bioavailability and other pharmacokinetic parameters of ethinyloestradiol. Contraception 2000;62:253-7. PubMed
  12. Fernandez N, Lopez C, Díez R, et al. Drug interactions with the dietary fiber Plantago ovata husk. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2012;8(11):1377-86.
  13. Semen plantaginis in: WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, volume 1. World Health Organization, Geneva, 1999. Available at http://apps.who.int/medicinedocs/en/d/Js2200e/. Accessed November 26, 1026.
  14. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21 (21CFR 101.17). Food labeling warning, notice, and safe handling statements. Available at www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=20f647d3b74161501f46564b915b4048&mc=true&node=se21.2.101_117&rgn=div8. Accessed December 3, 2
  15. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21 (21CFR 201.319). Specific labeling requirements - water-soluble gums, hydrophilic gums, and hydrophilic mucilloids. Available at www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=201.319. Accessed Dece
  16. Diez R, Garcia JJ, Diez MJ, Sierra M, Sahagun AM, Fernandez N. Influence of Plantago ovata husk (dietary fiber) on the bioavailability and other pharmacokinetic parameters of metformin in diabetic rabbits. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2017 Jun 7;17(1):298. PubMed
  17. Chiu AC, Sherman SI. Effects of pharmacological fiber supplements on levothyroxine absorption. Thyroid. 1998;8(8):667-71. PubMed
  18. Merrick C, Madden CA, Capurso NA. A Case of Blunted Orally Disintegrating Olanzapine Effect Due to Coadministered Psyllium. J Clin Psychiatry 2021;82(2):20cr13633. PubMed

See these in context on the Black Psyllium monograph →

Slippery Elm 3 references
  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  2. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  3. Czarnecki D, Nixon R, Bekhor P, and et al. Delayed prolonged contact urticaria from the elm tree. Contact Dermatitis 1993;28:196-197. PubMed

See these in context on the Slippery Elm monograph →

Prickly Pear Cactus 9 references
  1. Meckes-Lozyoa M, Roman-Ramos R. Opuntia streptacantha; a coadjutor in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Am J Chin Med 1986;14:116-8.
  2. Rayburn K, Martinez R, Escobedo M, et al. Glycemic effects of various species of nopal (Opuntia sp.) in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Texas J Rural Health 1998;26:68-76.
  3. Bush TM, Rayburn KS, Holloway SW, et al. Adverse interactions between herbal and dietary substances and prescription medications: a clinical survey. Altern Ther Health Med 2007;13:30-5.
  4. Sobieraj DM, Freyer CW. Probable hypoglycemic adverse drug reaction associated with prickly pear cactus, glipizide, and metformin in a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Ann Pharmacother 2010;44:1334-7. PubMed
  5. Kleiner, O., Cohen, Z., and Mares, A. J. Low colonic obstruction due to Opuntia ficus indica seeds: the aftermath of enjoying delicious cactus fruits. Acta Paediatr. 2002;91(5):606-607.
  6. Steinberg, J. M. and Eitan, A. Prickly pear fruit bezoar presenting as rectal perforation in an elderly patient. Int J Colorectal Dis. 2003;18(4):365-367. PubMed
  7. Meckes-Lozyoa, M. and Roman-Ramos, R. Opuntia streptacantha: a coadjutor in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Am J Chin Med 1986;14(3-4):116-118.
  8. Onakpoya IJ, O'Sullivan J, Heneghan CJ. The effect of cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) on body weight and cardiovascular risk factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Nutrition. 2015;31(5):640-6. PubMed
  9. Han EH, Lim MK, Lee S, et al. Efficacy of Ethanolic Extract of Opuntia ficus-indica var. saboten Stems for Improving Cognitive Function in Elderly Subjects 55-85 Years of Age: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. J Med Food 2020;23(11):11

See these in context on the Prickly Pear Cactus monograph →

Flaxseed 37 references
  1. Kolonel LN, Nomura AM, Cooney RV. Dietary fat and prostate cancer: current status. J Natl Cancer Inst 1999;91:414-28. PubMed
  2. Ramon JM, Bou R, Romea S, et al. Dietary fat intake and prostate cancer risk: a case-control study in Spain. Cancer Causes Control 2000;11:679-85. PubMed
  3. Thompson LU, Rickard SE, Cheung F, et al. Variability in anticancer lignan levels in flaxseed. Nutr Cancer 1997;27:26-30. PubMed
  4. Nordstrom DC, Honkanen VE, Nasu Y, et al. Alpha-linolenic acid in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized study: flaxseed vs. safflower seed. Rheumatol Int 1995;14:231-4. PubMed
  5. Cunnane SC, Ganguli S, Menard C, et al. High alpha-linolenic acid flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum): some nutritional properties in humans. Br J Nutr 1993;69:443-53.
  6. Clark WF, Parbtani A, Huff MW, et al. Flaxseed: a potential treatment for lupus nephritis. Kidney Int 1995;48:475-80. PubMed
  7. Cunnane SC, Hamadeh MJ, Liede AC, et al. Nutritional attributes of traditional flaxseed in healthy young adults. Am J Clin Nutr 1995;61:62-8. PubMed
  8. De Stefani E, Deneo-Pellegrini H, Boffetta P, et al. Alpha-linolenic acid and risk of prostate cancer: a case-control study in Uruguay. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2000;9:335-8.
  9. Giovannucci E, Rimm EB, Colditz GA, et al. A prospective study of dietary fat and risk of prostate cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 1993;85:1571-9. PubMed
  10. Clark WF, Kortas C, Heidenheim P, et al. Flaxseed in lupus nephritis: a two-year nonplacebo-controlled crossover study. J Am Coll Nutr 2001;20:143-8. PubMed
  11. Serraino M, Thompson LU. The effect of flaxseed supplementation on early risk markers for mammary carcinogenesis. Cancer Lett 1991;60:135-42. PubMed
  12. Rickard SE, Yuan YV, Thompson LU. Plasma insulin-like growth factor I levels in rats are reduced by dietary supplementation of flaxseed or its lignan secoisolariciresinol diglycoside. Cancer Lett 2000;161:47-55. PubMed
  13. Mousavi Y, Adlercreutz H. Enterolactone and estradiol inhibit each other's proliferative effect on MCF-7 breast cancer cells in culture. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1992;41:615-9.. PubMed
  14. Adlercreutz H, Fotsis T, Bannwart C, et al. Determination of urinary lignans and phytoestrogen metabolites, potential antiestrogens and anticarcinogens, in urine of women on various habitual diets. J Steroid Biochem 1986;25:791-7.. PubMed
  15. Rose DP. Dietary fiber and breast cancer. Nutr Cancer 1990;13:1-8.. PubMed
  16. Lemay A, Dodin S, Kadri N, et al. Flaxseed dietary supplement versus hormone replacement therapy in hypercholesterolemic menopausal women. Obstet Gynecol 2002;100:495-504.. DOI
  17. Brooks JD, Ward WE, Lewis JE, et al. Supplementation with flaxseed alters estrogen metabolism in postmenopausal women to a greater extent than does supplementation with an equal amount of soy. Am J Clin Nutr 2004;79:318-25.. PubMed
  18. Laaksonen DE, Laukkanen JA, Niskanen L, et al. Serum linoleic and total polyunsaturated fatty acids in relation to prostate and other cancers: a population-based cohort study. Int J Cancer 2004;111:444-50.. PubMed
  19. Dodin S, Lemay A, Jacques H, et al. The effects of flaxseed dietary supplement on lipid profile, bone mineral density, and symptoms in menopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, wheat germ placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2005 PubMed
  20. Brouwer IA, Katan MB, Zock PL. Dietary alpha-linolenic acid is associated with reduced risk of fatal coronary heart disease, but increased prostate cancer risk: a meta-analysis. J Nutr 2004;134:919-22.
  21. Demark-Wahnefried W, Polascik TJ, George SL, et al. Flaxseed supplementation (not dietary fat restriction) reduces prostate cancer proliferation rates in men presurgery. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2008;17:3577-87. PubMed
  22. Thompson LU, Chen JM, Li T, et al. Dietary flaxseed alters tumor biological markers in postmenopausal breast cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2005;11:3828-35. PubMed
  23. Mani UV, Mani I, Biswas M, Kumar SN. An open-label study on the effect of flax seed powder (Linum usitatissimum) supplementation in the management of diabetes mellitus. J Diet Suppl 2011;8:257-65.
  24. Rhee Y, Brunt A. Flaxseed supplementation improved insulin resistance in obese glucose intolerant people: a randomized crossover design. Nutr J 2011;10:44. PubMed
  25. Cornish SM, Chilibeck PD, Paus-Jennsen L, et al. A randomized controlled trial of the effects of flaxseed lignan complex on metabolic syndrome composite score and bone mineral in older adults. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2009;34:89-98. PubMed
  26. Cockerell KM, Watkins AS, Reeves LB, et al. Effects of linseeds on the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot randomised controlled trial. J Hum Nutr Diet 2012;25:435-43. PubMed
  27. Colli MC, Bracht A, Soares AA, et al. Evaluation of the efficacy of flaxseed meal and flaxseed extract in reducing menopausal symptoms. J Med Food 2012;15:840-5. PubMed
  28. Allman, M. A., Pena, M. M., and Pang, D. Supplementation with flaxseed oil versus sunflowerseed oil in healthy young men consuming a low fat diet: effects on platelet composition and function. Eur.J Clin.Nutr. 1995;49(3):169-178.
  29. Simbalista RL, Sauerbronn AV, Aldrighi JM, Areas JA. Consumption of a flaxseed-rich food is not more effective than a placebo in alleviating the climacteric symptoms of postmenopausal women. J Nutr 2010;140:293-7. PubMed
  30. Patade A, Devareddy L, Lucas EA, et al. Flaxseed reduces total and LDL cholesterol concentrations in Native American postmenopausal women. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2008;17:355-66. PubMed
  31. Rodriguez-Leyva D, Weighell W, Edel AL, LaVallee R, Dibrov E, Pinneker R, Maddaford TG, Ramjiawan B, Aliani M, Guzman R, Pierce GN. Potent antihypertensive action of dietary flaxseed in hypertensive patients. Hypertension. 2013 Dec;62(6):1081-9. PubMed
  32. Bloedon LT, Balikai S, Chittams J, et al. Flaxseed and cardiovascular risk factors: results from a double blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial. J Am Coll Nutr 2008;27:65-74. PubMed
  33. Ursoniu S, Sahebkar A, Andrica F, Serban C, Banach M; Lipid and Blood Pressure Meta-analysis Collaboration Group. Effects of flaxseed supplements on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trial. Clin Nutr. 2016 Jun;3 PubMed
  34. Mohammadi-Sartang M, Sohrabi Z, Barati-Bodaji R, Raeisi-Dehkordi H, Mazloom Z. Flaxseed supplementation on glucose control and insulin sensitivity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Nutr Rev. 2018 Feb 1;76( PubMed
  35. Haidari F, Banaei-Jahromi N, Zakerkish M, Ahmadi K. The effects of flaxseed supplementation on metabolic status in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized open-labeled controlled clinical trial. Nutr J. 2020;19(1):8. PubMed
  36. Villarreal-Renteria AI, Herrera-Echauri DD, Rodríguez-Rocha NP, et al. Effect of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) supplementation on glycemic control and insulin resistance in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomi
  37. Li L, Li H, Gao Y, Vafaei S, Zhang X, Yang M. Effect of flaxseed supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review, and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Food Funct 2023;14(2):675-690. PubMed

See these in context on the Flaxseed monograph →

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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.

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