Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 7 of 11 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Shen Ling Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Health Concerns

Shen Ling label
See full label image
Tablet Or Pill Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

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

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

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Shen Ling is a dietary supplement by Health Concerns with 11 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for fatigue and low energy, digestive support and poor appetite, immune support.Based on those ingredients, 1,359 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Baked Licorice, White Atractylodes, Poria sclerotium. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Shen Ling by Health Concerns

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Shen Ling by Health Concerns — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Shen Ling by Health Concerns

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

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

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

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

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

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 0 of its 11 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (750 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Shen Ling contains 11 ingredients in a proprietary blend formula. The active components include codonopsis, white atractylodes, cardamom, Job's tears (coix), poria mushroom, baked licorice, and lotus; three additional plant ingredients (platycodon, dioscorea, and citrus) are also included.

The tablet also contains inactive ingredients—vegetable gum, silicon dioxide, stearic acid, and cellulose—which serve as binders and fillers to hold the formula together.

Does it work?

Not established
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
Not established

The graded evidence we hold for these ingredients covers different conditions than the ones this product is marketed for, so there's no established rating for its stated use.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Digestive support and general wellness tonic.
  • We looked for evidence on: Abdominal pain, Anorexia nervosa, Cachexia, Cough, Diarrhea, Dyspepsia — and 4 related terms.
  • The closest evidence on file: Lotus is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Cough (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Lotus is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Diarrhea, Insomnia, Nausea and vomiting, Halitosis.
  • Also on file: Poria Mushroom is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Diarrhea, Insomnia.

The evidence we hold rates most of Shen Ling's ingredients as having insufficient reliable evidence to support their use for specific conditions. Baked licorice is rated possibly effective for atopic dermatitis (eczema) and canker sores.

The other ingredients—codonopsis, white atractylodes, Job's tears, poria mushroom, lotus, and cardamom—lack established effectiveness for the conditions they're traditionally used for, meaning the clinical evidence isn't solid enough to confirm whether they work.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Codonopsis Atractylodes Cardamom Job's Tears Poria Mushroom Licorice Lotus

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

Baked licorice is unsafe in pregnancy due to links between its active compound glycyrrhizin and harmful fetal effects; avoid it while breastfeeding as well. Codonopsis and white atractylodes should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.

Job's tears and poria mushroom are traditionally avoided in pregnancy, and safety data for breastfeeding are lacking for both. Lotus supplements should not be used during breastfeeding.

Cardamom used in food amounts is generally well tolerated; larger medicinal doses have unknown safety. Common adverse effects are mild—licorice may cause headache, nausea, or vomiting; atractylodes may cause allergic reaction, dry mouth, or nausea.

Rare allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) have been reported with codonopsis at high doses, and allergic reactions are possible with poria and lotus. Very large doses of codonopsis (30–60 grams) may cause chest pain, heart rhythm problems, or throat pain.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Codonopsis Atractylodes Cardamom Job's Tears Poria Mushroom Licorice Lotus

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

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

Why this rating?
  • 6 of the 7 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Lotus, Poria Mushroom, Codonopsis, Licorice, Atractylodes, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications.
  • For scale: 1,360 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 Shen Ling, double-check if you use blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (major interaction), heart medications like digoxin and diltiazem, diabetes medications, sedatives and sleeping aids, cancer drugs (cisplatin, paclitaxel, abiraterone), or drugs the liver metabolizes, including midazolam. Job's tears may also affect absorption of theophylline and dextromethorphan.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Shen Ling is a traditional herbal formula with limited clinical evidence for effectiveness. If you take blood thinners, heart medications, diabetes drugs, sedatives, cancer medications, or drugs processed by your liver, you need to check your exact medications with the tool on this page before starting.

Pregnant or breastfeeding people should not use this product without a doctor's advice. Talk to your pharmacist about whether it fits your situation.

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

Assessment coverage: 7 of 11 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Apr 25, 2017.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Shen Ling, straight from the product label.

Brand Health Concerns
Net contents 90 Tablet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Apr 25, 2017
DSLD ID 73321
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Tablet Or Pill
Dietary claims / uses All Other
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Shen Ling by Health Concerns, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
3 Tablet(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
3 Tablet(s)
Servings per container
30
IngredientAmount% DV
Proprietary Blend750 mg--
Platycodon0 NP--
Dioscorea0 NP--
Dolichos0 NP--
Codonopsis0 NP--
White Atractylodes0 NP--
Cardamon0 NP--
Citrus0 NP--
Coix0 NP--
Poria sclerotium0 NP--
Baked Licorice0 NP--
Lotus0 NP--

Other ingredients: Vegetable Gum, Silicon Dioxide, Stearic Acid, Cellulose

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Use: Three tablets 3 to 4 times per day between meals.

Precautions

Notice: This product is not intended for use by pregnant women.

General Statements

Made in the U.S.A.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Chinese traditional formulas

Combining modern research and ancient wisdom

FDA Statement of Identity

Shen Ling, Bai Zhu San Codonopsis, Poria, Atractylodes Herbal Supplement

Formula

Pin Yin: Dang Shen, Bai Zhu, Fu Ling, Zhi Gan Cao, Shan Yao, Bai Bian Dou, Lian Zi, Yi Yi Ren, Sha Ren, Jie Geng, Chen Pi.

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

See for yourself

Shen Ling by Health Concerns label

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

Shen Ling 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 Shen Ling by Health Concerns

These are the 11 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size3 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill 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.

Proprietary Blend

750 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Vegetable Gum, Silicon Dioxide, Stearic Acid, Cellulose. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Shen Ling by Health Concerns Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Shen Ling?

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
1,359Drugs
1,329 Moderate 30 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Baked Licorice 1,040
White Atractylodes 801
Poria sclerotium 417
Lotus 212
Codonopsis 211

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Shen Ling interact with 1,359 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

6 of the 11 ingredients in Shen Ling interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Baked Licorice White Atractylodes Poria sclerotium Lotus Codonopsis Coix

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Shen Ling 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.

Baked Licorice18 drug types · 1,040 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, licorice might reduce the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
In human research, licorice increases blood pressure in a dose-dependent manner.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cisplatin (Platinol-Aq)

Theoretically, licorice might reduce the effects of cisplatin.
In animal research, licorice diminished the therapeutic efficacy of cisplatin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Corticosteroids

Theoretically, concomitant use of licorice and corticosteroids might increase the side effects of corticosteroids.
Case reports suggest that concomitant use of licorice and oral corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, can potentiate the duration of activity and increase blood levels of corticosteroids. Additionally, in one case report, a patient with neurogenic orthostatic hypertension stabilized on fludrocortisone 0.1 mg twice daily developed pseudohyperaldosteronism after recent consumption of large amounts of black licorice.

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

Theoretically, licorice might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
In vitro research shows that licorice extract and glabridin, a licorice constituent, inhibit CYP2B6 isoenzymes. Licorice extract from the species G. uralensis seems to inhibit CYP2B6 isoenzymes to a greater degree than G. glabra extract in vitro. Theoretically, these species of licorice might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6; however, these interactions have not yet been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, licorice might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro, licorice extracts from the species G. glabra and G. uralensis inhibit CYP2C19 isoenzymes in vitro. Theoretically, these species of licorice might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19; however, this interaction has not yet been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, licorice might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C8.
In vitro, licorice extract from the species G. glabra and G. uralensis inhibits CYP2C8 isoenzymes. Theoretically, these species of licorice might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C8; however, this interaction has not yet been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, licorice might increase or decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
There is conflicting evidence about the effect of licorice on CYP2C9 enzyme activity. In vitro research shows that extracts from the licorice species G. glabra and G. uralensis moderately inhibit CYP2C9 isoenzymes. However, evidence from an animal model shows that licorice extract from the species G. uralensis can induce hepatic CYP2C9 activity. Until more is known, licorice should be used cautiously in people taking CYP2C9 substrates.

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

Theoretically, licorice might increase or decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that the licorice constituent glycyrrhizin, taken in a dosage of 150 mg orally twice daily for 14 days, modestly decreases the area under the concentration-time curve of midazolam by about 20%. Midazolam is a substrate of CYP3A4, suggesting that glycyrrhizin modestly induces CYP3A4 activity. Animal research also shows that licorice extract from the species G. uralensis induces CYP3A4 activity. However, licorice extract from G. glabra species appear to inhibit CYP3A4-induced metabolism of testosterone in vitro. It is thought that the G. glabra inhibits CYP3A4 due to its constituent glabridin, which is a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor in vitro and not present in other licorice species. Until more is known, licorice should be used cautiously in people taking CYP3A4 substrates.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Theoretically, concomitant use of licorice with digoxin might increase the risk of cardiac toxicity.
Overuse or misuse of licorice with cardiac glycoside therapy might increase the risk of cardiac toxicity due to potassium loss.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of licorice with diuretic drugs might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Overuse of licorice might compound diuretic-induced potassium loss. In one case report, a 72-year-old male with a past medical history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, arrhythmia, stroke, and hepatic dysfunction was hospitalized with severe hypokalemia and uncontrolled hypertension due to pseudohyperaldosteronism. This was thought to be provoked by concomitant daily consumption of a product containing 225 mg of glycyrrhizin, a constituent of licorice, and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg for 1 month.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, licorice might increase or decrease the effects of estrogen therapy.
Theoretically, licorice might interfere with estrogen therapy due to estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Loop Diuretics

Theoretically, loop diuretics might increase the mineralocorticoid effects of licorice.
Theoretically, loop diuretics might enhance the mineralocorticoid effects of licorice by inhibiting the enzyme that converts cortisol to cortisone; however, bumetanide (Bumex) does not appear to have this effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Midazolam (Versed)

Theoretically, licorice might decrease levels of midazolam.
In humans, the licorice constituent glycyrrhizin appears to moderately induce the metabolism of midazolam. This is likely due to induction of cytochrome P450 3A4 by licorice. Until more is known, licorice should be used cautiously in people taking midazolam.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, licorice might decrease the absorption of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research shows that licorice can increase P-glycoprotein activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Paclitaxel (Abraxane, Onxol)

Theoretically, licorice might decrease plasma levels and clinical effects of paclitaxel.
Multiple doses of licorice taken concomitantly with paclitaxel might reduce the effectiveness of paclitaxel. Animal research shows that licorice 3 grams/kg given orally for 14 days before intravenous administration of paclitaxel decreases the exposure to paclitaxel and increases its clearance. Theoretically, this occurs because licorice induces cytochrome P450 3A4 enzymes, which metabolize paclitaxel. Notably, a single dose of licorice did not affect exposure or clearance of paclitaxel.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, licorice might decrease plasma levels and clinical effects of warfarin.
Licorice seems to increase metabolism and decrease levels of warfarin in animal models. This is likely due to induction of cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) metabolism by licorice. Advise patients taking warfarin to avoid taking licorice.

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

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Methotrexate (Trexall, Others)

Theoretically, licorice might increase levels of methotrexate.
Animal research suggests that intravenous administration of glycyrrhizin, a licorice constituent, and high-dose methotrexate may delay methotrexate excretion and increase systemic exposure, leading to transient elevations in liver enzymes and total bilirubin. This interaction has not yet been reported in humans.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Baked Licorice full monograph & interactions

White Atractylodes5 drug types · 801 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, atractylodes might increase the risk of bleeding when used concomitantly with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs.
Laboratory research suggests that atractylenolides II and III, constituents of atractylodes, reduce platelet activation. So far, this has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Aromatase Inhibitors

Theoretically, atractylodes may have an additive effect when used with other aromatase inhibitors.
Laboratory research suggests that atractylodes and its constituents exhibit aromatase inhibitor effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hexobarbital

Theoretically, taking atractylodes may prolong the therapeutic and adverse effects of hexobarbital.
In animals, atractylodes has been shown to prolong the effects of hexobarbital. These effects have not been shown in humans.

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

Theoretically, atractylodes might decrease the levels of CYP1A2 substrates.
In animals, atractylodes administered at high doses has been shown to induce CYP1A2 activity. This effect has not been shown in humans.

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

Theoretically, atractylodes might increase the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.
In animals, atractylodes administered at high doses has been shown to inhibit CYP3A1 activity, which is a homolog to the human CYP3A4 enzyme. This effect has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
White Atractylodes full monograph & interactions

Poria sclerotium3 drug types · 417 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Poria sclerotium full monograph & interactions

Lotus3 drug types · 212 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, concurrent use of lotus with other antiplatelet drugs might reduce platelet aggregation and increase the risk of bleeding.
Neferine and isoliensinine, constituents of lotus, have been shown to inhibit platelet aggregation, in vitro. These constituents can inhibit the production of pro-aggregating factors like prostaglandins.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, lotus might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Animal research shows that the ethanolic extract of lotus reduces blood glucose levels and potentiates the effects of injected insulin. Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

Theoretically, taking lotus concomitantly with pentobarbital might increase sedation.
Animal research shows that lotus extract increases pentobarbitone-induced sleeping time. It is not known if this occurs in humans or if this effect occurs with other barbiturates or sedatives.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lotus full monograph & interactions

Codonopsis3 drug types · 211 drugs

Abiraterone (Zytiga)

Theoretically, taking codonopsis root with abiraterone might reduce the levels and therapeutic effects of abiraterone.
Animal research in rats shows that intragastric administration of codonopsis root along with abiraterone every 2 days for 2 weeks seems to increase the clearance of abiraterone and reduce the overall exposure and time to maximum concentration. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, codonopsis liquor might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
A small clinical study in adults with coronary heart disease shows that consuming Codonopsis pilosula liquor for 4 weeks inhibits platelet aggregation but does not affect tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) or plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI).

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, codonopsis might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Laboratory and animal research suggest that codonopsis has antidiabetic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Codonopsis full monograph & interactions

Coix5 drug types · 128 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Preliminary evidence shows that constituents of Job's tears might have hypoglycemic effects. Theoretically, concomitant use with drugs that decrease blood glucose levels might increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Some antidiabetes drugs include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), glipizide (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Chlorzoxazone (Parafon Forte, Paraflex)

Animal research suggests that Job's tears might enhance absorption of chlorzoxazone in the small intestine. Single dose and short-term oral administration of Job's tears bran ethanolic extract along with oral administration of a five-drug cocktail containing chlorzoxazone increases chlorzoxazone peak plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) without altering major cytochrome P450 activities in the liver. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)

Animal research suggests that Job's tears might enhance absorption of dextromethorphan in the small intestine. Single dose oral administration of Job's tears bran ethanolic extract along with oral administration of a five-drug cocktail containing dextromethorphan increases dextromethorphan area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) without altering major cytochrome P450 activities in the liver. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Others)

Animal research suggests that Job's tears might enhance absorption of diltiazem in the small intestine. Single dose oral administration of Job's tears bran ethanolic extract along with oral administration of a five-drug cocktail containing diltiazem increases diltiazem peak plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) without altering major cytochrome P450 activities in the liver. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Theophylline

Animal research suggests that Job's tears might enhance absorption of theophylline in the small intestine. Single dose and short-term oral administration of Job's tears bran ethanolic extract along with oral administration of a five-drug cocktail containing theophylline increases theophylline peak plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) without altering major cytochrome P450 activities in the liver. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Coix full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Shen Ling, from the product label.

Health Concerns

See all Health Concerns products
Name
Health Concerns
Street Address
8001 Capwell Drive
City
Oakland
State
CA
ZipCode
94621
Phone Number
(800) 233-9355
Web Address
www.healthconcerns.com/pro
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Shen Ling by Health Concerns: Common Questions

Does Shen Ling by Health Concerns interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Shen Ling has a known interaction with 1,359 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Shen Ling contains 11 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 Shen Ling if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Baked licorice is unsafe in pregnancy. Codonopsis, white atractylodes, Job's tears, and poria mushroom should be avoided during pregnancy, and multiple ingredients lack reliable safety data while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using any herbal product during pregnancy or lactation.
What does licorice do in this formula?
Baked licorice in Shen Ling may help with eczema and canker sores based on traditional use, though evidence is limited. It can also affect how your body processes many medications and interact with blood thinners and heart drugs, so it requires careful consideration if you're on any prescription medications.
Is there any ingredient in Shen Ling that's been proven to work?
Baked licorice has possibly effective evidence for eczema and canker sores. The other ingredients lack reliable evidence, so we can't confirm they work for any specific condition.
What are the most common side effects?
Licorice may cause headache, nausea, or vomiting with oral use. Atractylodes may trigger allergic reaction, dry mouth, or nausea. Rare allergic reactions, including severe ones, have been reported with codonopsis. Most people tolerate these ingredients without side effects.
Can I take Shen Ling with my diabetes medication?
You should check with your pharmacist first. Codonopsis, Job's tears, and lotus theoretically increase the risk of low blood sugar when combined with diabetes drugs, which means your blood sugar could drop too low. Your dose may need adjustment.
What are the inactive ingredients?
The tablet contains vegetable gum, silicon dioxide, stearic acid, and cellulose—all common binders and fillers that hold the formula together but don't serve as active ingredients.

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.

Shen Ling label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Shen Ling’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Codonopsis

Interacts with 211 drugs

Codonopsis (often called 'dang shen') is a root long used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a gentle energy and digestive tonic, frequently as a milder substitute for ginseng. Human researc...

Read the full Codonopsis monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Atractylodes

Interacts with 801 drugs

Atractylodes is a root used for centuries in traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Thai medicine, mostly for digestive complaints and fatigue, often as part of multi-herb formulas. Modern resea...

Read the full Atractylodes monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Cardamom

Cardamom is a popular cooking spice that has long been used in traditional medicine for digestion and fresh breath. As a food, it is generally safe for most people, but high-dose supplements...

Read the full Cardamom monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Job's Tears

Interacts with 128 drugs

Job's Tears is a grain-like seed long used as a food and in traditional medicine, especially in East Asia. While it is generally safe as a food and is being studied for possible effects on m...

Read the full Job's Tears monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Poria Mushroom

Interacts with 417 drugs

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

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Licorice

Interacts with 1,040 drugs

Licorice root is a traditional remedy used for sore throats, coughs, and digestive complaints, but solid human evidence is limited for most uses. Regular licorice contains glycyrrhizin, whic...

Read the full Licorice monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Lotus

Interacts with 212 drugs

Lotus is an edible aquatic plant used in food and traditional medicine across Asia, with parts like the seeds, leaves, and flowers taken for digestion, calm, and overall wellness. Most healt...

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Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Shen Ling'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 116 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.

Codonopsis 5 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. Xu, X., Wang, S. R., and Lin, Q. [Clinical and experimental study on codonopsis pilosula oral liquor in treating coronary heart disease with blood stasis]. Zhongguo Zhong.Xi.Yi.Jie.He.Za Zhi. 1995;15(7):398-400.
  3. Hur GY, Choi GS, Park HJ, Ye YM, Park HS. Anaphylactic shock induced by Codonopsis lanceolata, traditional Chinese medicine in a patient with allergic rhinitis. Allergy. 2008;63(10):1406-7.
  4. Zhang ZB, Ip SP, Cho WCS, et al. Herb-drug interactions between androgenic Chinese herbal medicines and androgen receptor antagonist on tumor growth: Studies on two xenograft prostate cancer animal models. Phytother Res. 2021.
  5. Jia W, Bi Q, Jiang S, et al. Hypoglycemic activity of Codonopsis pilosula (Franch.) Nannf. in vitro and in vivo and its chemical composition identification by UPLC-Triple-TOF-MS/MS. Food Funct 2022;13(5):2456-2464.

See these in context on the Codonopsis monograph →

Atractylodes 6 references
  1. Liu Y, Jia Z, Dong L, et al. A randomized pilot study of atractylenolide I on gastric cancer cachexia patients. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2008;5:337-44. PubMed
  2. Chen Y, Yang W, Guo L, Wu X, Zhang T, Liu J, Zhang J. Atractylodes lactone compounds inhibit platelet activation. Platelets. 2017 Mar;28(2):194-202. PubMed
  3. Jiang H, Shi J, Li Y. Screening for compounds with aromatase inhibiting activities from Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. Molecules. 2011 Apr 14;16(4):3146-51. PubMed
  4. Koonrungsesomboon N, Na-Bangchang K, Karbwang J. Therapeutic potential and pharmacological activities of Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. Asian Pac J Trop Med. 2014 Jun;7(6):421-8. PubMed
  5. Li L, Tang LY, Man GC, Yeung BH, Lau CB, Leung PC, Wang CC. Potential reproductive toxicity of Largehead Atractylodes Rhizome, the most commonly used Chinese medicine for threatened miscarriage. Hum Reprod. 2011 Dec;26(12):3280-8. PubMed
  6. Muhamad N, Plengsuriyakarn T, Na-Bangchang K. Atractylodes lancea for cholangiocarcinoma: Modulatory effects on CYP1A2 and CYP3A1 and pharmacokinetics in rats and biodistribution in mice. PLoS One 2022;17(11):e0277614. PubMed

See these in context on the Atractylodes monograph →

Cardamom 2 references
  1. Mobacken, H. and Fregert, S. Allergic contact dermatitis from cardamom. Contact Dermatitis 1975;1(3):175-176. PubMed
  2. Aghasi M, Koohdani F, Qorbani M, et al. Beneficial effects of green cardamom on serum SIRT1, glycemic indices and triglyceride levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial. J Sci Food Agri PubMed

See these in context on the Cardamom monograph →

Job's Tears 3 references
  1. Chiang W, Cheng C, Chiang M, Chung KT. Effects of dehulled adlay on the culture count of some microbiota and their metabolism in the gastrointestinal tract of rats. J Agric Food Chem 2000;48:829-32. PubMed
  2. Yu YM, Chang WC, Liu CS, Tsai CM. Effect of young barley leaf extract and adlay on plasma lipids and LDL oxidation in hyperlipidemic smokers. Biol Pharm Bull 2004;27:802-5. PubMed
  3. Yao HT, Lin JH, Liu YT, Li ML, Chiang W. Food-Drug Interaction between the Adlay Bran Oil and Drugs in Rats. Nutrients 2019;11(10):2473. PubMed

See these in context on the Job's Tears monograph →

Poria Mushroom 3 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. Kim H, Park I, Park K, Park S, Kim YI, Park BG. The positive effects of Poria cocos extract on quality of sleep in insomnia rat models. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022;19(11):6629. PubMed
  3. Lv Q, Di X, Bian B, Li K, Guo J. Neuroprotective effects of Poria cocos (Agaricomycetes) essential oil on Aß1-40-induced learning and memory deficit in rats. Int J Med Mushrooms 2022;24(10):73-82.

See these in context on the Poria Mushroom monograph →

Licorice 92 references
  1. Farese RV Jr, Biglieri EG, Shackleton CH, et al. Licorice-induced hypermineralocorticoidism. N Engl J Med 1991;325:1223-7. PubMed
  2. Sigurjonsdottir HA, Ragnarsson J, Franzson L, Sigurdsson G. Is blood pressure commonly raised by moderate consumption of liquorice? J Hum Hypertens 1995;9:345-8.
  3. Armanini D, Lewicka S, Pratesi C, et al. Further studies on the mechanism of the mineralocorticoid action of licorice in humans. J Endocrinol Invest 1996;19:624-9. PubMed
  4. Zhang YD, Lorenzo B, Reidenberg MM. Inhibition of 11 beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase obtained from guinea pig kidney by furosemide, naringenin and some other compounds. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1994;49:81-5.
  5. Strandberg TE, Jarvenpaa AL, Vanhanen H, McKeigue PM. Birth outcome in relation to licorice consumption during pregnancy. Am J Epidemiol 2001;153:1085-8. PubMed
  6. Sigurjonsdottir HA, Franzson L, Manhem K, et al. Liquorice-induced rise in blood pressure: a linear dose-response relationship. J Hum Hypertens 2001;15:549-52. PubMed
  7. Amato P, Christophe S, Mellon PL. Estrogenic activity of herbs commonly used as remedies for menopausal symptoms. Menopause 2002;9:145-50. PubMed
  8. Kent UM, Aviram M, Rosenblat M, Hollenberg PF. The licorice root derived isoflavan glabridin inhibits the activities of human cytochrome P450S 3A4, 2B6, and 2C9. Drug Metab Dispos 2002;30:709-15.. PubMed
  9. Yoshida S, Takayama Y. Licorice-induced hypokalemia as a treatable cause of dropped head syndrome. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2003;105:286-7.. PubMed
  10. Strandberg TE, Andersson S, Jarvenpaa AL, et al. Preterm birth and licorice consumption during pregnancy. Am J Epidemiol 2002;156:803-5.. PubMed
  11. Hussain RM. The sweet cake that reaches parts other cakes can't! Postgrad Med J 2003;79:115-6.. PubMed
  12. Morris DJ, Davis E, Latif SA. Licorice, tobacco chewing, and hypertension. N Engl J Med 1990;322:849-50. PubMed
  13. Quinkler M, Stewart PM. Hypertension and the cortisol-cortisone shuttle. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2003;88:2384-92. PubMed
  14. Westman EC, Guthrie GP. Licorice, tobacco chewing, and hypertension. N Engl J Med 1990;322:850. PubMed
  15. Mu Y, Zhang J, Zhang S, et al. Traditional Chinese medicines Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra chinensis Baill) and Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch) activate pregnane X receptor and increase warfarin clearance in rats. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2006;316:1369-77. PubMed
  16. Yasue H, Itoh T, Mizuno Y, Harada E. Severe hypokalemia, rhabdomyolysis, muscle paralysis, and respiratory impairment in a hypertensive patient taking herbal medicines containing licorice. Intern Med 2007;46:575-8. PubMed
  17. Brayley J, Jones J. Life-threatening hypokalemia associated with excessive licorice ingestion (letter). Am J Psychiatry 1994;151:617-8. PubMed
  18. de Klerk GJ, Nieuwenhuis G, Beutler JJ. Hypokalaemia and hypertension associated with use of liquorice flavoured chewing gum. BMJ 1997;314:731-2.
  19. Dellow EL, Unwin RJ, Honour JW. Pontefract cakes can be bad for you: refractory hypertension and liquorice excess. Nephol Dial Transplant 1999;14:218-20. PubMed
  20. Elinav E, Chajek-Shaul T. Licorice consumption causing severe hypokalemic paralysis. Mayo Clin Proc 2003;78:767-8. PubMed
  21. Eriksson JW, Carlberg B, Hillom V. Life-threatening ventricular tachycardia due to liquorice-induced hypokalemia. J Intern Med 1999;245:307-10.
  22. Janse A, van Iersel M, Hoefnagels WH, Olde Rikker MG. The old lady who liked liquorice: hypertension due to chronic intoxication in a memory-impaired patient. Neth J Med 2005;63:149-50.
  23. Lin SH, Yang SS, Chau T, Halperin ML. An unusual cause of hypokalemic paralysis: chronic licorice ingestion. Am J Med Sci 2003;325:153-6. PubMed
  24. van den Bosch AE, van der Klooster JM, Zuidgeest DM, et al. Severe hypokalemic paralysis and rhabdomyolysis due to ingestion of liquorice. Neth J Med 2005;63:146-8.
  25. van Uum SH. Liquorice and hypertension. Neth J Med 2005;63:119-20.
  26. Russo S, Mastropasqua M, Mosetti MA, et al. Low doses of liquorice can induce hypertension encephalopathy. Am J Nephrol 2000;20:145-8. PubMed
  27. Stormer FC, Reistad R, Alexander J. Glycyrrhizic acid in liquorice - evaluation of health hazard. Food Chem Toxicol 1993;31:303-12. PubMed
  28. Sontia B, Mooney J, Gaudet L, Touyz RM. Pseudohyperaldosteronism, liquorice, and hypertension. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2008;10:153-7. PubMed
  29. Francini-Pesenti F, Puato M, Piccoli A, Brocadello F. Liquorice-induced hypokalaemia and water retention in the absence of hypertension. Phytother Res 2008;22:563-5. PubMed
  30. Lapi F, Gallo E, Bernasconi S, et al. Myopathies associated with red yeast rice and liquorice: spontaneous reports from the Italian Surveillance System of Natural Health Products. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2008;66:572-4. PubMed
  31. Chen MF, Shimada F, Kato H, Yano S, Kanaoka M. Effect of glycyrrhizin on the pharmacokinetics of prednisolone following low dosage of prednisolone hemisuccinate. Endocrinol Jpn 1990;37:331-41. PubMed
  32. Teelucksingh S, Mackie AD, Burt D, McIntyre MA, Brett L, Edwards CR. Potentiation of hydrocortisone activity in skin by glycyrrhetinic acid. Lancet 1990;335(8697):1060-3. PubMed
  33. Heidemann HT, Kreuzfelder E. Hypokalemic rhabdomyolysis with myoglobinuria due to licorice ingestion and diuretic treatment. Klin Wochenschr 1983;61:303-5. PubMed
  34. Hukkanen J, Ukkola O, Savolainen MJ. Effects of low-dose liquorice alone or in combination with hydrochlorothiazide on the plasma potassium in healthy volunteers. Blood Press 2009;18:192-5. PubMed
  35. Bisogni V, Rossi GP, Calò LA. Apparent mineralcorticoid excess syndrome, an often forgotten or unrecognized cause of hypokalemia and hypertension: case report and appraisal of the pathophysiology. Blood Press. 2014 Jun;23(3):189-92. PubMed
  36. Dehours E, Vallé B, Rougé-Bugat ME, Florent B, Bounes V, Franchitto N. Suspected hypokalaemia following liquorice ingestion on board ship. J Telemed Telecare. 2013 Jun;19(4):227-8. PubMed
  37. Kormann R, Languille E, Amiot HM, Hertig A. Dying for a cup of tea. BMJ Case Rep. 2012 Oct 19;2012. PubMed
  38. Panduranga P, Al-Rawahi N. Licorice-induced severe hypokalemia with recurrent torsade de pointes. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol. 2013 Nov;18(6):593-6. PubMed
  39. Räikkönen K, Seckl JR, Heinonen K, Pyhälä R, Feldt K, Jones A, Pesonen AK, Phillips DI, Lahti J, Järvenpää AL, Eriksson JG, Matthews KA, Strandberg TE, Kajantie E. Maternal prenatal licorice consumption alters hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis fu
  40. Robles BJ, Sandoval AR, Dardon JD, Blas CA. Lethal liquorice lollies (liquorice abuse causing pseudohyperaldosteronism). BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Sep 19;2013. PubMed
  41. Chamberlain, J. J. and Abolnik, I. Z. Pulmonary edema following a licorice binge. West J Med 1997;167(3):184-185.
  42. Barrella, M., Lauria, G., Quatrale, R., and Paolino, E. Hypokaliemic rhabdomyolysis associated with liquorice ingestion: report of an atypical case. Ital.J Neurol.Sci 1997;18(4):217-220. PubMed
  43. Fugh-Berman, A. Herb-drug interactions. Lancet 2000;355(9198):134-138. PubMed
  44. Hasegawa, J., Suyama, Y., Kinugawa, T., Morisawa, T., and Kishimoto, Y. Echocardiographic findings of the heart resembling dilated cardiomyopathy during hypokalemic myopathy due to licorice-induced pseudoaldosteronism. Cardiovasc.Drugs Ther 1998;12(6):59 PubMed
  45. van Rossum, T. G., Vulto, A. G., Hop, W. C., Brouwer, J. T., Niesters, H. G., and Schalm, S. W. Intravenous glycyrrhizin for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase I/II trial. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 199 PubMed
  46. Lozano, P., Flores, D., Martinez, S., Artigues, I., Rimbau, E. M., and Gomez, F. Upper limb ischemia induced by chronic licorice ingestion. J Cardiovasc.Surg (Torino) 2000;41(4):631-632.
  47. Brouwers, A. J. and van der, Meulen J. ['Licorice hypertension' also caused by licorice tea]. Ned.Tijdschr Geneeskd. 4-14-2001;145(15):744-747.
  48. van Rossum, T. G., Vulto, A. G., Hop, W. C., and Schalm, S. W. Glycyrrhizin-induced reduction of ALT in European patients with chronic hepatitis C. Am J Gastroenterol 2001;96(8):2432-2437. PubMed
  49. Sigurjonsdottir, H. A., Manhem, K., Axelson, M., and Wallerstedt, S. Subjects with essential hypertension are more sensitive to the inhibition of 11 beta-HSD by liquorice. J Hum Hypertens 2003;17(2):125-131.
  50. Shintani, S., Murase, H., Tsukagoshi, H., and Shiigai, T. Glycyrrhizin (licorice)-induced hypokalemic myopathy. Report of 2 cases and review of the literature. Eur Neurol 1992;32(1):44-51. PubMed
  51. Chen, M. F., Shimada, F., Kato, H., Yano, S., and Kanaoka, M. Effect of oral administration of glycyrrhizin on the pharmacokinetics of prednisolone. Endocrinol Jpn 1991;38(2):167-174. PubMed
  52. Lee, C. K., Park, K. K., Lim, S. S., Park, J. H., and Chung, W. Y. Effects of the licorice extract against tumor growth and cisplatin-induced toxicity in a mouse xenograft model of colon cancer. Biol Pharm Bull 2007;30(11):2191-2195. PubMed
  53. Isaia, G. C., Pellissetto, C., Ravazzoli, M., and Tamone, C. Acute adrenal crisis and hypercalcemia in a patient assuming high liquorice doses. Minerva Med 2008;99(1):91-94.
  54. Bocker, D. and Breithardt, G. [Induction of arrhythmia by licorice abuse]. Z Kardiol 1991;80(6):389-391.
  55. Tacconi, P., Paribello, A., Cannas, A., and Marrosu, M. G. Carpal tunnel syndrome triggered by excessive licorice consumption. J Peripher.Nerv.Syst. 2009;14(1):64-65. PubMed
  56. Tu, J. H., He, Y. J., Chen, Y., Fan, L., Zhang, W., Tan, Z. R., Huang, Y. F., Guo, D., Hu, D. L., Wang, D., and Hong-Hao Zhou. Effect of glycyrrhizin on the activity of CYP3A enzyme in humans. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2010;66(8):805-810. PubMed
  57. Goultschin, J., Palmon, S., Shapira, L., Brayer, L., and Gedalia, I. Effect of glycyrrhizin-containing toothpaste on dental plaque reduction and gingival health in humans. A pilot study. J Clin Periodontol 1991;18(3):210-212. PubMed
  58. Scali, M., Pratesi, C., Zennaro, M. C., Zampollo, V., and Armanini, D. Pseudohyperaldosteronism from liquorice-containing laxatives. J Endocrinol Invest 1990;13(10):847-848. PubMed
  59. Chatterjee, N., Domoto-Reilly, K., Fecci, P. E., Schwamm, L. H., and Singhal, A. B. Licorice-associated reversible cerebral vasoconstriction with PRES. Neurology 2010;75(21):1939-1941. PubMed
  60. Imtiaz, K. E. Sweet root, bitter pill: liquorice-induced hyperaldosteronism. QJM 2011;104(12):1093-1095. PubMed
  61. van Beers, E. J., Stam, J., and van den Bergh, W. M. Licorice consumption as a cause of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: a case report. Crit Care 2011;15(1):R64. PubMed
  62. MacKenzie, M. A., Hoefnagels, W. H., Jansen, R. W., Benraad, T. J., and Kloppenborg, P. W. The influence of glycyrrhetinic acid on plasma cortisol and cortisone in healthy young volunteers. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1990;70(6):1637-1643. PubMed
  63. Bardhan, K. D., Cumberland, D. C., Dixon, R. A., and Holdsworth, C. D. Clinical trial of deglycyrrhizinised liquorice in gastric ulcer. Gut 1978;19(9):779-782. PubMed
  64. Koster, M. and David, G. K. Reversible severe hypertension due to licorice ingestion. N Engl J Med 1968;278(25):1381-1383. PubMed
  65. Corse, F. M., Galgani, S., Gasparini, C., Giacanelli, M., and Piazza, G. Acute hypokalemic myopathy due to chronic licorice ingestion: report of a case. Ital J Neurol Sci 1983;4(4):493-497. PubMed
  66. Berlango Jimenez A., Jimenez Murillo L., Montero Perez F. J., Munoz Avila J. A., Torres Murillo J., and Calderon de la Barca Gazquez J. M. [Acute rhabdomyolysis and tetraparesis secondary to hypokalemia due to ingested licorice]. An Med Interna 1995;12(1)
  67. Bernardi, M., D'Intino, P. E., Trevisani, F., Cantelli-Forti, G., Raggi, M. A., Turchetto, E., and Gasbarrini, G. Effects of prolonged ingestion of graded doses of licorice by healthy volunteers. Life Sci 1994;55(11):863-872. PubMed
  68. van der Zwan A. Hypertension encephalopathy after liquorice ingestion. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 1993;95(1):35-37. PubMed
  69. Werner, S., Brismar, K., and Olsson, S. Hyperprolactinaemia and liquorice. Lancet 2-10-1979;1(8111):319.
  70. Nishioka, K. and Seguchi, T. Contact allergy due to oil-soluble licorice extracts in cosmetic products. Contact Dermatitis 1999;40(1):56. PubMed
  71. Yoshino T, Yanagawa T, Watanabe K. Risk factors for pseudoaldosteronism with rhabdomyolysis caused by consumption of drugs containing licorice and differences between incidence of these conditions in Japan and other countries: case report and literature r
  72. Li G, Simmler C, Chen L, et al. Cytochrome P450 inhibition by three licorice species and fourteen licorice constituents. Eur J Pharm Sci. 2017;109:182-190. PubMed
  73. Li J, Fan X, Wang Q. Hypertensive crisis with 2 target organ impairment induced by glycyrrhizin: a case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018;97(11):e0073. PubMed
  74. Foster CA, Church KS, Poddar M, Van Uum SH, Spaic T. Licorice-induced hypertension: a case of pseudohyperaldosteronism due to jelly bean ingestion. Postgrad Med 2017;129(3):329-31. PubMed
  75. Gallacher SD, Tsokolas G, Dimitropoulos I. Liquorice-induced apparent mineralocorticoid excess presenting in the emergency department. Clin Med (Lond) 2017;17(1):43-5. PubMed
  76. Dai DW, Singh I, Hershman JM. Lozenge-induced hypermineralcorticoid state--a unique case of licorice lozenges resulting in hypertension and hypokalemia. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2016;18(2):159-60.
  77. O'Connell K, Kinsella J, McMahon C, Holian J, O'Riordan S. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) associated with liquorice consumption. Ir J Med Sci 2016;185(4):945-7. PubMed
  78. Hataya Y, Oba A, Yamashita T, Komatsu Y. Hyponatremia in an elderly patient due to isolated hypoaldosteronism occurring after licorice withdrawal. Intern Med 2017;56(2):175-9. PubMed
  79. Ha Y, Wang T, Li J, et al. Herb-Drug Interaction Potential of Licorice Extract and Paclitaxel: A Pharmacokinetic Study in Rats. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 2020;45(2):257-264. PubMed
  80. Edelman ER, Butala NM, Avery LL, Lundquist AL, Dighe AS. Case 30-2020: A 54-Year-Old Man with Sudden Cardiac Arrest. N Engl J Med. 2020;383(13):1263-1275. PubMed
  81. Wang H, Dong L, Qu F, et al. Effects of glycyrrhizin on the pharmacokinetics of nobiletin in rats and its potential mechanism. Pharm Biol. 2020 Dec;58(1):352-356. PubMed
  82. Attou R, Redant S, Honore PM, Preseau T, Hantson P, De Bels D. Liquorice intoxication can lead to cardiac arrest! Case Rep Emerg Med. 2020;2020:3727682. PubMed
  83. Benge E, Shah P, Yamaguchi L, Josef V. Trick or Treat? Licorice-Induced Hypokalemia: A Case Report. Cureus 2020;12(11):e11656. PubMed
  84. Abe K, Higurashi T, Takahashi M, et al. Concomitant Use of High-dose Methotrexate and Glycyrrhizin Affects Pharmacokinetics of Methotrexate, Resulting in Hepatic Toxicity. In Vivo 2021;35(4):2163-2169. PubMed
  85. Awad N, Makar G, Burroughs V, Ravi P, Burroughs SR. Licorice-induced apparent mineralocorticoid excess causing persistent hypertension and hypokalemia. Acta Endocrinol (Buchar) 2020;16(4):508-510. PubMed
  86. Patel P, Aknouk M, Dawson A, et al. How Much Is Too Much? Exploring Pseudohyperaldosteronism in Glycyrrhizic Acid Toxicity From Chronic Licorice Root Consumption. Cureus 2021;13(7):e16454. PubMed
  87. Fan ZJ, Liu JM, Li XX, et al. Glycyrrhizin-Induced Pseudohyperaldosteronism: A Case Report. Chin J Integr Med 2022. PubMed
  88. Gatica-Ortega ME, Pastor-Nieto MA. Allergic contact dermatitis to Glycyrrhiza inflata root extract in an anti-acne cosmetic product. Contact Dermatitis 2021;85(4):454-455.
  89. Wang JB, Huang A, Wang Y, et al. Corticosteroid plus glycyrrhizin therapy for chronic drug- or herb-induced liver injury achieves biochemical and histological improvements: a randomised open-label trial. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022;55(10):1297-1310. PubMed
  90. Puaratanaarunkon T, Washrawirul C, Chuenboonngarm N, Noppakun N, Asawanonda P, Kumtornrut C. Efficacy and safety of a facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glaba root extract in the treatment of maskne: A
  91. 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
  92. Han EJ, Park JS. Lethal Arrhythmia Induced by Licorice. J Korean Med Sci 2023;38(12):e107. PubMed

See these in context on the Licorice monograph →

Lotus 5 references
  1. Yu, J. and Hu, W. S. [Effects of neferine on platelet aggregation in rabbits]. Yao Xue.Xue.Bao. 1997;32(1):1-4.
  2. Yang, J. and Zhou, K. NMR spectroscopic analysis of neferine and isoliensinine. Magn Reson.Chem 2004;42(11):994-997. PubMed
  3. Mukherjee, P. K., Saha, K., Balasubramanian, R., Pal, M., and Saha, B. P. Studies on psychopharmacological effects of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. rhizome extract. J Ethnopharmacol. 1996;54(2-3):63-67. PubMed
  4. Mukherjee, P. K., Saha, K., Pal, M., and Saha, B. P. Effect of Nelumbo nucifera rhizome extract on blood sugar level in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 1997;58(3):207-213. PubMed
  5. Hiraguchi Y, Tokuda R, Gen M, et al. Identification of a novel food allergen in lotus root. Allergol Int. 2018;67(1):141-143. PubMed

See these in context on the Lotus 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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