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

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Herbadiet

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Major
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 30, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper 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

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper is a dietary supplement by Herbadiet with 3 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for stress and anxiety, sleep problems, fatigue and low energy.Based on those ingredients, 1,531 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Ashwagandha, Black Pepper, Mucuna. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet

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 27, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 3 of its 3 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains three active ingredients: Ashwagandha, Mucuna (also called Cowhage), and Black Pepper. Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used to support relaxation and stress resilience.

Mucuna is a plant legume that contains levodopa (L-dopa), an active compound used in neurology and sometimes researched for mood support. Black Pepper is included primarily for its piperine content, which enhances absorption of the other ingredients.

The capsule shell is made from vegetable cellulose.

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: strengthen cognitive skills, improve mood, reduce stress.
  • We looked for evidence on: Anxiety, Cognitive function, Depression, Fatigue, Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Parkinson disease — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Anxiety (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Stress.
  • Also on file: Black Pepper is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Depression, Fatigue.

For Ashwagandha, there is possibly effective evidence for insomnia, anxiety, stress, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The evidence for its use in bipolar disorder is insufficient to rate.

For Mucuna and Black Pepper, the evidence we hold shows insufficient reliable evidence to rate their effectiveness for the conditions studied—which include anxiety, Parkinson disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and several others. This does not mean they're ineffective; it means the data available to us does not establish a clear rating.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Ashwagandha Cowhage Black Pepper

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 3 of the 3 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 3 of 3.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 3 of 3.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated in the short term in healthy adults, though long-term safety data are limited. The most commonly reported side effects are mild—diarrhea, nausea, gastrointestinal upset, and vomiting—but these do not commonly occur at typical doses.

Serious adverse effects, though rare, have included liver problems. Ashwagandha is traditionally thought to risk miscarriage and should be avoided during pregnancy; there is not enough safety information to use it while breastfeeding.

Mucuna is well tolerated orally when used as directed, though diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, and dry mouth have been reported. It contains L-dopa, an active drug-like compound, so it should be used carefully and with professional guidance.

Due to its dopamine-related effects and effects on milk production, Mucuna should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Black Pepper is generally safe as a food spice; concentrated supplements should be used more cautiously.

Burning aftertaste and indigestion are the most common mild effects. Allergic reactions are rare but possible in sensitive individuals.

As a spice, black pepper appears likely safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but the safety of concentrated piperine supplements is not well studied.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Ashwagandha Cowhage Black Pepper

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?
  • 3 of the 3 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Black Pepper, Ashwagandha, Cowhage.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; lithium; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 1,532 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, ask your pharmacist or doctor to check your current medications against these drug types, starting with the most serious: methyldopa (a blood pressure medication), non-selective MAOIs (certain antidepressants), and levodopa products—all Major severity with Mucuna. Moderate interactions exist with CNS depressants, benzodiazepines, blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, immunosuppressants, thyroid hormones, liver-taxing drugs, antipsychotics, tricyclic antidepressants, certain anesthetics, and a number of other medications processed through the liver or affecting heart rhythm, seizure control, breathing, and cholesterol.

A Minor interaction with CYP1A2 substrates is also documented from ashwagandha.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

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

This three-ingredient combination is best considered under professional guidance because of Mucuna's serious interactions with blood pressure and certain antidepressants and because of the multiple Moderate interactions from all three ingredients with common medications. If you take any prescription medications—particularly for blood pressure, mood, seizures, cholesterol, diabetes, or thyroid function—talk with your own doctor or pharmacist before starting this product.

They can help you decide whether it's right for you and monitor you if you do take it.

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

Assessment coverage: 3 of 3 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Apr 11, 2022.

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 Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper, straight from the product label.

Brand Herbadiet
Barcode (UPC) 880133256617
Net contents 60 V-Cap(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Apr 11, 2022
DSLD ID 257835
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Organic, Gluten Free, Dairy Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
30
UPC/BARCODE
880133256617
IngredientAmount% DV
Ashwagandha400 mg--
Mucuna400 mg--
Black Pepper200 mg--

Other ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose Shell

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.
Formulation

Herbadiet unique blend combines most sought after herbs to strengthen cognitive skills & improve mood. Encapsulating this goodness in our quick release, easy to swallow vegan capsules, guarantees you a premium quality nutritional supplement.

Anti-stress Improves mood & sense of well-being Boosts energy levels

Natural color variation may occur in this product

USDA Organic

100% natural Brain support

Non-GMO

Suitable for vegetarians and vegans

Free Of preservatives, binders, gluten, artificial ingredients, dairy, soy, wheat, yeast

Every batch 3rd party lab tested

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

Precautions

Do not use if seal under the cap is broken or missing. Dietary supplement shouldn't be used as a substitute for a varied diet

Caution: If you are pregnant, breast feeding, or taking medications, consult your doctor before use.

Discontinue use and consult your doctor if any adverse reactions occur.

Keep out of reach of children.

Not for medicinal use

Storage

Store in cool, dry place

Seals/Symbols

fssai Lic. No.: 20817018000147 Vcaps Plus GMP Good Manufacturing Practice Quality Product

USDA Organic

General Statements

1% for the planet

License Number: 10018064001315

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions for Use: Take 2 capsules twice a day, preferably with meals or as directed by your physician.

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

See for yourself

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet label

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

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper 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 Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet

These are the 3 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container30 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.

Ashwagandha

Interacts with
1,372 drugs
400 mg per serving

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

Ashwagandha monograph & interactions

Mucuna

Interacts with
193 drugs
400 mg per serving

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

Mucuna monograph & interactions

Black Pepper

Interacts with
1,019 drugs
200 mg per serving

Black pepper is a common kitchen spice that is generally safe in the amounts used in food. Its extract, piperine, is mostly added to supplements to he...

Black Pepper monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose Shell. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper?

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
1,531Drugs
17 Major 1,474 Moderate 40 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Ashwagandha 1,372
Black Pepper 1,019
Mucuna 193

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper interact with 1,531 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

3 of the 3 ingredients in Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Ashwagandha Black Pepper Mucuna

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper 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.

Ashwagandha10 drug types · 1,372 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Benzodiazepines

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

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

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

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

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

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence C
Ashwagandha full monograph & interactions

Black Pepper17 drug types · 1,019 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to inhibit platelet aggregation. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Animal research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, can reduce blood glucose levels. Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Atorvastatin (Lipitor)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of atorvastatin.
Animal research shows that taking piperine, a constituent of black pepper, 35 mg/kg can increase the maximum serum concentration of atorvastatin three-fold. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of cyclosporine.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases the bioavailability of cyclosporine. This has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research suggests that some constituents of black pepper inhibit CYP2D6. This has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research and pharmacokinetic simulation data suggest that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, as well as the pepper fruit seem to inhibit CYP3A4. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of lithium due to its diuretic effects. The dose of lithium might need to be reduced.
Black pepper is thought to have diuretic properties.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Nevirapine (Viramune)

Black pepper might increase blood levels of nevirapine.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases the plasma concentration of nevirapine. However, no adverse effects were observed in this study.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to inhibit P-glycoprotein.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.
Animal research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases pentobarbital-induced sleeping time.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Black pepper might increase blood levels of phenytoin.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption, slow elimination, and increase levels of phenytoin. Taking a single dose of black pepper 1 gram along with phenytoin seems to double the serum concentration of phenytoin. Consuming a soup with black pepper providing piperine 44 mg/200 mL of soup along with phenytoin also seems to increase phenytoin levels when compared with consuming the same soup without black pepper.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Propranolol (Inderal)

Black pepper might increase blood levels of propranolol.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and slow elimination of propranolol.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Rifampin (Rifadin)

Black pepper might increase blood levels of rifampin.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and serum levels of rifampin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Theophylline

Black pepper might increase blood levels of theophylline.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and slow elimination of theophylline.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of amoxicillin.
Animal research shows that taking piperine, a constituent of black pepper, with amoxicillin increases plasma levels of amoxicillin. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of carbamazepine, potentially increasing the effects and side effects of carbamazepine.
One clinical study in patients taking carbamazepine 300 mg or 500 mg twice daily shows that taking a single 20 mg dose of purified piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases carbamazepine levels. Piperine may increase carbamazepine absorption by increasing blood flow to the GI tract, increasing the surface area of the small intestine, or inhibiting cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) in the gut wall. Absorption was significantly increased by 7-10 mcg/mL/hour. The time to eliminate carbamazepine was also increased by 4-8 hours. Although carbamazepine levels were increased, this did not appear to increase side effects. In vitro research also shows that piperine can increase carbamazepine levels by 11% in a time-dependent manner.

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

Theoretically, black pepper might decrease levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research suggests that black pepper induces CYP1A2. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Black Pepper full monograph & interactions

Mucuna8 drug types · 193 drugs

Levodopa

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

Likelihood Likely Evidence D
Methyldopa (Aldomet)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anesthesia

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antipsychotic Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Guanethidine (Ismelin)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Tricyclic Antidepressants (Tcas)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Mucuna full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper, from the product label.

Herbadiet

See all Herbadiet products
Name
Arkure Health Care
City
Haryana
State
India
Web Address
www.herbadiet.in
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet: Common Questions

Does Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper by Herbadiet interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper has a known interaction with 1,531 medications, including 17 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper contains 3 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take this while I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy because it's traditionally thought to risk miscarriage, and there's not enough safety data for breastfeeding. Mucuna should also be avoided in both pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its dopamine effects and effects on milk supply. Black Pepper as a food spice appears likely safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but safety data for concentrated piperine supplements is limited. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
What are the most common side effects?
Ashwagandha may cause diarrhea, nausea, gastrointestinal upset, and vomiting, though these are uncommon at typical doses. Mucuna may cause diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, and dry mouth. Black Pepper may cause a burning aftertaste and indigestion. Overall, this product is generally well tolerated, but long-term safety data are limited.
Does this product actually help with anxiety and sleep?
Ashwagandha—one of the three ingredients—has possibly effective evidence for anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, stress, and insomnia. The evidence for Mucuna and Black Pepper for anxiety or sleep is insufficient to rate based on the data we hold. How the combination works together isn't addressed in our data.
What is Mucuna and why is it in this product?
Mucuna is a legume that contains levodopa (L-dopa), an active drug-like compound. It's included here likely to work alongside ashwagandha, though the data on its specific effectiveness for anxiety or stress is insufficient to rate. Because it contains L-dopa, Mucuna should be used carefully and with professional guidance.
Why does this product contain Black Pepper?
Black Pepper is included for its piperine content, which enhances the absorption of the other ingredients. However, this same piperine can increase blood levels of certain medications, which is why it interacts with several drug types.
Is there any risk of liver damage from this product?
Ashwagandha has been linked in rare cases to liver problems including acute hepatitis and liver failure. While serious liver effects are rare, this is why the product should be used cautiously and under professional guidance, especially if you're taking other medications that stress the liver or have existing liver concerns.

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.

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Ashwagandha

Interacts with 1,372 drugs

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

Read the full Ashwagandha monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Cowhage

Interacts with 193 drugs

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

Read the full Cowhage monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Black Pepper

Interacts with 1,019 drugs

Black pepper is a common kitchen spice that is generally safe in the amounts used in food. Its extract, piperine, is mostly added to supplements to help the body absorb other ingredients (li...

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Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Organic Ashwagandha + Mucuna + Black Pepper'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 73 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.

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

See these in context on the Ashwagandha monograph →

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

See these in context on the Cowhage monograph →

Black Pepper 29 references
  1. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  2. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  3. Bano G, Amla V, Raina RK, et al. The effect of piperine on pharmacokinetics of phenytoin in healthy volunteers. Planta Med 1987;53:568-9. PubMed
  4. Bano G, et al. Effect of piperine on bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of propranolol and theophylline in healthy volunteers. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1991;41;615-7. PubMed
  5. Cohle SD, Trestrail JD III, Graham MA, et al. Fatal pepper aspiration. Am J Dis Child 1988;142:633-6. PubMed
  6. Bhardwaj RK, Glaeser H, Becquemont L, et al. Piperine, a major constituent of black pepper, inhibits human P-glycoprotein and CYP3A4. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2002;302:645-50. PubMed
  7. Velpandian T, Jasuja R, Bhardwaj RK, et al. Piperine in food: interference in the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2001;26:241-7. PubMed
  8. Pattanaik S, Hota D, Prabhakar S, et al. Pharmacokinetic interaction of a single dose of piperine with steady-state carbamazepine in epilepsy patients. Phytother Res 2009;23:1281-6.
  9. Munakata, M., Kobayashi, K., Niisato-Nezu, J., Tanaka, S., Kakisaka, Y., Ebihara, T., Ebihara, S., Haginoya, K., Tsuchiya, S., and Onuma, A. Olfactory stimulation using black pepper oil facilitates oral feeding in pediatric patients receiving long-term en
  10. Myers, B. M., Smith, J. L., and Graham, D. Y. Effect of red pepper and black pepper on the stomach. Am J Gastroenterol 1987;82(3):211-214.
  11. Raghavendra, R. H. and Naidu, K. A. Spice active principles as the inhibitors of human platelet aggregation and thromboxane biosynthesis. Prostaglandins Leukot.Essent.Fatty Acids 2009;81(1):73-78. PubMed
  12. Subehan, Usia, T., Kadota, S., and Tezuka, Y. Mechanism-based inhibition of human liver microsomal cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) by alkamides of Piper nigrum. Planta Med 2006;72(6):527-532.
  13. Kasibhatta, R. and Naidu, M. U. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of nevirapine under fasting conditions: a randomised, crossover, placebo-controlled study. Drugs R.D. 2007;8(6):383-391. PubMed
  14. Usia, T., Iwata, H., Hiratsuka, A., Watabe, T., Kadota, S., and Tezuka, Y. CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitory activities of Indonesian medicinal plants. Phytomedicine. 2006;13(1-2):67-73. PubMed
  15. Mujumdar, A. M., Dhuley, J. N., Deshmukh, V. K., Raman, P. H., Thorat, S. L., and Naik, S. R. Effect of piperine on pentobarbitone induced hypnosis in rats. Indian J Exp.Biol. 1990;28(5):486-487.
  16. Panda, S. and Kar, A. Piperine lowers the serum concentrations of thyroid hormones, glucose and hepatic 5'D activity in adult male mice. Horm.Metab Res. 2003;35(9):523-526. PubMed
  17. Lawless, H. and Stevens, D. A. Effects of oral chemical irritation on taste. Physiol Behav. 1984;32(6):995-998. PubMed
  18. Hiwale, A. R., Dhuley, J. N., and Naik, S. R. Effect of co-administration of piperine on pharmacokinetics of beta-lactam antibiotics in rats. Indian J Exp.Biol. 2002;40(3):277-281.
  19. Han, Y., Chin Tan, T. M., and Lim, L. Y. In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the effects of piperine on P-gp function and expression. Toxicol.Appl.Pharmacol. 8-1-2008;230(3):283-289. PubMed
  20. Sharma, P., Varma, M. V., Chawla, H. P., and Panchagnula, R. In situ and in vivo efficacy of peroral absorption enhancers in rats and correlation to in vitro mechanistic studies. Farmaco 2005;60(11-12):874-883. PubMed
  21. Aher, S., Biradar, S., Gopu, C. L., and Paradkar, A. Novel pepper extract for enhanced P-glycoprotein inhibition. J Pharm.Pharmacol. 2009;61(9):1179-1186. PubMed
  22. Zutshi, R. K., Singh, R., Zutshi, U., Johri, R. K., and Atal, C. K. Influence of piperine on rifampicin blood levels in patients of pulmonary tuberculosis. J Assoc.Physicians India 1985;33(3):223-224.
  23. Marotta, R. B. and Floch, M. H. Diet and nutrition in ulcer disease. Med Clin North Am 1991;75(4):967-979. PubMed
  24. Subehan, Usia, T., Iwata, H., Kadota, S., and Tezuka, Y. Mechanism-based inhibition of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 by Indonesian medicinal plants. J Ethnopharmacol. 5-24-2006;105(3):449-455. PubMed
  25. Gimenez L, Zacharisen M. Severe pepper allergy in a young child. WMJ. 2011 Jun;110(3):138-9.
  26. Ren T, Yang M, Xiao M, Zhu J, Xie W, Zuo Z. Time-dependent inhibition of carbamazepine metabolism by piperine in anti-epileptic treatment. Life Sci. 2019;218:314-323. PubMed
  27. Thomas AB, Choudhary DC, Raje A, Nagrik SS. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic herb-drug interaction of piperine with atorvastatin in rats. J Chromatogr Sci 2021;59(4):371-80. PubMed
  28. Haron MH, Dale O, Martin K, et al. Evaluation of the Herb-Drug Interaction Potential of Commonly Used Botanicals on the US Market with Regard to PXR- and AhR-Mediated Influences on CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. J Diet Suppl 2022. PubMed
  29. Lin F, Hu Y, Zhang Y, Zhao L, Zhong D, Liu J. Predicting Food-Drug Interactions between Piperine and CYP3A4 Substrate Drugs Using PBPK Modeling. Int J Mol Sci 2024;25(20):10955. PubMed

See these in context on the Black Pepper monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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