Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 6 of 9 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Sleep & Relax Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Gaia Herbs

Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Sleep & Relax is a dietary supplement by Gaia Herbs with 9 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for anxiety and stress, sleep problems, relaxation and calming.Based on those ingredients, 1,115 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are organic Valerian, organic Passionflower leaf freeze-dried extract, Sweet Marjoram aerial parts essential oil. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Sleep & Relax by Gaia Herbs

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

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

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 3 of its 9 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (290 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Sleep & Relax contains 9 active ingredients. The herb blend includes English lavender flower essential oil, passionflower leaf (freeze-dried extract), two forms of valerian (the whole herb and a freeze-dried extract), two preparations of lemon balm (the herb and a freeze-dried extract), California poppy (both the aerial parts and a freeze-dried extract), and sweet marjoram essential oil.

These ingredients are all traditional herbs used to support relaxation and sleep. The capsule itself is vegan.

Beyond these active ingredients, the product contains only a vegan capsule as an inactive ingredient.

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: Sleep and relaxation.
  • We looked for evidence on: Anxiety, Insomnia, Restless legs syndrome (RLS), Muscle cramps, Adjustment disorders, Perioperative anxiety — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Valerian is rated "Possibly Effective" for Insomnia (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Passion Flower is rated "Possibly Effective" for Pre-procedural anxiety, Insomnia.
  • Also on file: California Poppy is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Anxiety, Insomnia.

For insomnia and sleep, both passionflower and valerian are rated Possibly Effective based on available evidence. Lemon balm is rated Possibly Effective for stress and depression.

Lavender is rated Possibly Effective for dysmenorrhea (period pain), though it's rated Possibly Ineffective for cancer-related pain. California poppy and marjoram lack sufficient reliable evidence to rate their effectiveness — the data we hold doesn't establish whether they work for anxiety or insomnia.

The other conditions listed (restless leg syndrome, pre-procedural anxiety with valerian, alopecia with lavender, and others) also lack sufficient evidence to rate.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Lavender Lemon Balm California Poppy Marjoram Passion Flower Valerian

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

Most of these herbs are generally well tolerated for short-term use. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and digestive upset like nausea or diarrhea.

Valerian can cause vivid dreams and mental slowness; if you stop valerian after long-term use, taper slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and insomnia. Lavender essential oil is toxic if swallowed in concentrated amounts and can irritate skin in some people.

Rare serious effects are documented: valerian has been linked to liver damage in multi-ingredient products, and lemon balm to heart rhythm changes in one case. Passionflower caused severe nausea, vomiting, and heart rhythm issues in one high-dose case.

California poppy has limited safety data in humans.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Lavender Lemon Balm California Poppy Marjoram Passion Flower Valerian

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 6 matched ingredients can interact with medications — California Poppy, Lemon Balm, Marjoram, Lavender, Valerian, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs.
  • For scale: 1,116 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Check with your pharmacist before taking this product if you use sedatives or anxiety medications (like benzodiazepines), blood thinners (like warfarin or aspirin), thyroid hormone replacement, anticholinergic drugs (like benztropine), cholinergic drugs (like donepezil), or any drug that is glucuronidated or processed through CYP3A4 or the OATP transporters. Valeria and lemon balm's effects on these pathways may reduce how well some medications work or raise their levels.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

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

This product may help with sleep and relaxation, especially if passionflower or valerian appeal to you. Don't take it with prescription sedatives or anxiety medications without checking with your pharmacist first — the combination could make you too drowsy.

If you take a blood thinner, thyroid medication, or any anticholinergic or cholinergic drug, talk to us before starting. Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor says it's okay.

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

Assessment coverage: 9 of 9 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 25, 2020.

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 Sleep & Relax, straight from the product label.

Brand Gaia Herbs
Barcode (UPC) 751063996235
Net contents 50 Vegan Capsule(s)
Market status Off market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 25, 2020
DSLD ID 211120
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating), Organic, Gluten 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 Sleep & Relax by Gaia Herbs, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
25
UPC/BARCODE
751063996235
IngredientAmount% DV
Proprietary Blend290 mg--
English Lavender flower essential oil0 NP--
organic Passionflower leaf freeze-dried extract387 mg--
organic Valerian203 mg--
organic Valerian root freeze-dried extract87 mg--
organic Lemon Balm0 NP--
organic Lemon Balm leaf freeze-dried extract0 NP--
organic California Poppy0 NP--
organic California Poppy aerial parts freeze-dried extract0 NP--
Sweet Marjoram aerial parts essential oil0 NP--

Other ingredients: vegan Capsule

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 Adults take 2 capsules 1 hour before bed.

Precautions

Not for use during pregnancy or lactation. If you have a medical condition or take medications, please consult with your doctor before use.

Store away from children.

Use only as directed on label. Safety-sealed for your protection.

Storage

Keep bottle capped at all times and store in a cool, dry place.

Seals/Symbols

USDA Organic

Integrity Purity Potency EST 1987 USA

Certified B Corporation

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal supplement

Formulation

Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth.

Vegan

Gluten-free Soy-free

New Look Same Formula Promotes a sense of calm and helps prepare your body for a good night's rest

Sleep Support

General Statements

Product of Italy.

Connecting plants & people since 1987 Purity - Keep it clean All products are screened for pesticides, microbes, & heavy metals. Integrity - Keep it real See the proof at meetyourherbs.com, the world's first herb traceability platform. Potency - Keep it strong Concentrated herbal extracts are delivered in a convenient, easy-to-swallow capsule. Discover our guiding truths at: Facebook Instagram gaiaherbs.com @gaiaherbs A partnership of mutual beliefs Sleep & Relax is produced in Tuscany, Italy, by Aboca, the herbal supplement leader in Europe since 1978. Gaia Herbs' partnership with Aboca is born from a mutual belief in sustainable product development, dedication to quality, and a deep respect for science and nature working in harmony. Aboca

Brand IP Statement(s)

Gaia Herbs delivers unprecedented traceability by screening every product and sharing the results online. Learn more about your herbs by entering the unique ID # below at meetyourherbs.com

Formula

With Lavender, Lemon Balm & Passionflower

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

See for yourself

Sleep & Relax by Gaia Herbs label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Sleep & Relax by Gaia Herbs

These are the 9 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container25 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.

387 mg per serving

Passion flower is a traditional calming herb that many people use for anxiety and sleep. Early studies hint it may help with mild anxiety and restless...

Organic Passionflower leaf freeze-dried extract monograph & interactions

Organic Valerian

Interacts with
902 drugs
203 mg per serving

Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some...

Organic Valerian monograph & interactions
87 mg per serving

Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some...

Organic Valerian root freeze-dried extract monograph & interactions

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

Interaction report

Sleep & Relax by Gaia Herbs Drug Interactions

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Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Sleep & Relax 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.

organic Valerian6 drug types · 902 drugs

Alcohol (Ethanol)

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with alcohol.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might have an additive sedative effect when combined with alcohol. Excessive sedation has been reported in an alcohol-abusing individual who took valerian and Gingko biloba. However, the potential interaction between valerian and alcohol has been disputed in other research. Limited evidence suggests that a combination of valerian 160 mg and lemon balm 80 mg (Euvegal) does not cause further deterioration in reaction ability and reaction rate when taken with alcohol as compared to the effects of alcohol alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Alprazolam (Xanax)

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used with alprazolam. Also, valerian in high doses might modestly increase alprazolam levels, though this is not likely to be clinically significant.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might cause additive sedation when combined with alprazolam. Also, a small pharmacokinetic study shows that taking valerian extract 1000 mg daily (providing 11 mg valerenic acid) might increase alprazolam levels by about 19%. This might be due to valerian's mild inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Despite being statistically significant, this increase is not likely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cns Depressants

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Theoretically, concomitant use of valerian and drugs with sedative and anesthetic properties may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Glucuronidated Drugs

Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
In vitro research shows that methanolic valerian extract and valerenic acid might competitively inhibit UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 (UGT1A1) and UGT2B7.

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

Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian affects CYP2D6, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian is unlikely to affect the CYP2D6 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days did not affect the metabolism of dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of debrisoquine, an accepted CYP2D6 probe-substrate.

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

Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian extract might inhibit or induce CYP3A4, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian does not have a clinically significant effect on the CYP3A4 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of midazolam, an accepted CYP3A4 probe-substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days modestly increases levels of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 substrate, suggesting mild inhibition of CYP3A4. However, this mild inhibition is unlikely to be clinically relevant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

organic Passionflower leaf freeze-dried extract3 drug types · 836 drugs

Cns Depressants

Concomitant use of passion flower with sedative drugs might cause additive effects and side effects.
Research in animals and humans shows that passion flower has sedative effects which can be additive when used with sedative medications like lorazepam.

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

Theoretically, passion flower might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that passion flower can induce CYP3A4 enzymes, albeit to a much lower degree than rifampin, a known CYP3A4 inducer.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide Substrates (Oatp)

Theoretically, passion flower might reduce the bioavailability of OATP2B1 and OATP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that the passion flower constituents apigenin and vitexin inhibit OATP2B1 and OATP1A2. This inhibition may be dose-dependent. One specific high-flavonoid passion flower extract (Valverde) seems to inhibit OATP2B1 and OATP1A2, while another extract with a lower flavonoid concentration (Arkocaps) shows less potent inhibition. OATPs are responsible for the uptake of drugs and other compounds into the body; however, the specific activities of OATP2B1 and OATP1A2 are not well characterized.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Sweet Marjoram aerial parts essential oil3 drug types · 338 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

In vitro research suggests that marjoram extract can inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity. Theoretically, using marjoram in medicinal amounts along with anticholinergic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of marjoram or the anticholinergic agent.
Some anticholinergic drugs include atropine, benztropine (Cogentin), biperiden (Akineton), procyclidine (Kemadrin), and trihexyphenidyl (Artane).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

In vitro research suggests that marjoram extract inhibits platelet aggregation and adhesion. Theoretically, marjoram might increase the risk of bleeding when used in medicinal amounts along with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Some anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, ticlopidine (Ticlid), warfarin (Coumadin), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

In vitro research suggests that marjoram extract can inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity. Theoretically, using marjoram in medicinal amounts along with cholinergic drugs might have additive effects and increase the risk of cholinergic side effects.
Cholinergic drugs include bethanechol (Urecholine), donepezil (Aricept), echothiophate (Phospholine Iodide), edrophonium (Enlon, Reversol, Tensilon), neostigmine (Prostigmin), physostigmine (Antilirium), pyridostigmine (Mestinon, Regonol), succinylcholine (Anectine, Quelicin), and tacrine (Cognex).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

organic Lemon Balm2 drug types · 264 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of lemon balm might have additive effects with CNS depressant drugs.
Lemon balm seems to have CNS depressant activity in animals and in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, lemon balm might interfere with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
In vitro, constituents of lemon balm extract bind to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), preventing TSH receptor-binding and leading to the inhibition of TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. In animals, lemon balm extract has been shown to decrease levels of circulating TSH and inhibit thyroid secretion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

English Lavender flower essential oil1 drug type · 248 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, lavender might potentiate the therapeutic effects and adverse effects of CNS depressants.
Laboratory research suggests that lavender has sedative effects. However, clinical studies in patients taking oral lavender oil (Silexan) 160 mg for 10 weeks or taking lavender flower powder 1 gram daily for 2 months have not reported side effects of drowsiness, sedation, or sleepiness. There is still some concern that higher doses or different preparations of lavender might have additive effects with CNS depressant medications.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D

organic California Poppy1 drug type · 248 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking California poppy with drugs with sedative effects may increase the risk of sedative effects.
Laboratory research shows that California poppy has sedative effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Sleep & Relax, from the product label.

Gaia Herbs

See all Gaia Herbs products
Name
Gaia Herbs by Aboca S.p.A. - Italy.
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Sleep & Relax by Gaia Herbs: Common Questions

Does Sleep & Relax by Gaia Herbs interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Sleep & Relax has a known interaction with 1,115 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Sleep & Relax contains 9 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 pregnant or breastfeeding?
The safety data advises against passionflower and valerian during pregnancy. Lemon balm and California poppy lack enough safety data, so they're best avoided in pregnancy unless your doctor approves. For breastfeeding, passionflower and valerian should be avoided; lemon balm and California poppy have limited information, so talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Lavender and marjoram pregnancy/lactation safety is not clearly documented in the data we hold — ask your healthcare provider.
Will this make me drowsy?
Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect, especially with the valerian and lavender in this formula. You may also experience dizziness or mental slowness. Don't drive or operate machinery until you see how this product affects you.
What is passionflower used for in this product?
Passionflower is included for sleep and anxiety support. It's rated Possibly Effective for both insomnia and pre-procedural anxiety based on the evidence we have.
Can I use this long-term?
Long-term safety for most of these herbs is not well studied. Valerian especially should be used cautiously long-term; if you stop after extended use, taper your dose slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and insomnia. Talk to your pharmacist about how long is safe for you.
What are the most common side effects I might feel?
The most common side effects are drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and digestive upset. Some people report vivid dreams with valerian. These effects are usually mild and often don't occur more often than with placebo in studies.
Does lavender essential oil in this formula pose a risk?
The lavender in this capsule is in essential oil form. Essential oil is toxic if swallowed in concentrated amounts, but the amount in a capsule is typically considered safe. Topically, lavender oil can irritate skin in some people. Rare cases of hormonal changes have been reported in young males using lavender oil, though this is uncommon.

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.

Sleep & Relax label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Sleep & Relax’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Lavender

Interacts with 248 drugs

Lavender is a fragrant herb most popular for promoting relaxation, easing anxiety, and supporting sleep, with some encouraging evidence for a standardized oral lavender oil product for anxie...

Read the full Lavender monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Lemon Balm

Interacts with 264 drugs

Lemon balm is a gentle, lemon-scented mint-family herb traditionally used to ease stress, support sleep, and calm digestion, and topically for cold sores. Early studies are promising but gen...

Read the full Lemon Balm monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

California Poppy

Interacts with 248 drugs

California poppy is a traditional herbal remedy used mainly for anxiety and sleep problems, often combined with other calming herbs. Human research is very limited, so its true benefits are...

Read the full California Poppy monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Marjoram

Interacts with 338 drugs

Marjoram is a Mediterranean kitchen herb related to oregano that is widely used in food and traditional medicine for digestive, sleep, and respiratory complaints. Most of its health claims r...

Read the full Marjoram monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Passion Flower

Interacts with 836 drugs

Passion flower is a traditional calming herb that many people use for anxiety and sleep. Early studies hint it may help with mild anxiety and restlessness, but the evidence is limited and mo...

Read the full Passion Flower monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Valerian

Interacts with 902 drugs

Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some people sleep but does not work reliably...

Read the full Valerian monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Sleep & Relax'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 102 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.

Lavender 20 references
  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  2. Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician's Guide to Herbal Medicine. Terry C. Telger, transl. 3rd ed. Berlin, GER: Springer, 1998.
  3. Akhondzadeh S, Kashani L, Fotouhi A, et al. Comparison of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. tincture and imipramine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression: a double-blind, randomized trial. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2003;27:123-7. PubMed
  4. Varma S, Blackford S, Statham BN, Blackwell A. Combined contact allergy to tea tree oil and lavender oil complicating chronic vulvovaginitis. Contact Dermatitis 2000;42:309-10.
  5. Coulson IH and Khan AS. Facial 'pillow' dermatitis due to lavender oil allergy. Contact Dermatitis 1999;41(2):111. PubMed
  6. Woelk, H. and Schlafke, S. A multi-center, double-blind, randomised study of the Lavender oil preparation Silexan in comparison to Lorazepam for generalized anxiety disorder. Phytomedicine. 2010;17(2):94-99. PubMed
  7. Kasper, S., Gastpar, M., Muller, W. E., Volz, H. P., Moller, H. J., Dienel, A., and Schlafke, S. Silexan, an orally administered Lavandula oil preparation, is effective in the treatment of 'subsyndromal' anxiety disorder: a randomized, double-blind, plac
  8. Uehleke, B., Schaper, S., Dienel, A., Schlaefke, S., and Stange, R. Phase II trial on the effects of Silexan in patients with neurasthenia, post-traumatic stress disorder or somatization disorder. Phytomedicine. 6-15-2012;19(8-9):665-671. PubMed
  9. Brandao FM. Occupational allergy to lavender oil. Contact Dermatitis 1986;15(4):249-250. PubMed
  10. Rademaker M. Allergic contact dermatitis from lavender fragrance in Difflam gel. Contact Dermatitis 1994;31(1):58-59. PubMed
  11. Kasper S, Gastpar M, Müller WE, et al. Lavender oil preparation Silexan is effective in generalized anxiety disorder--a randomized, double-blind comparison to placebo and paroxetine. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2014 Jun;17(6):859-69. PubMed
  12. Farshbaf-Khalili A, Kamalifard M, Namadian M. Comparison of the effect of lavender and bitter orange on anxiety in postmenopausal women: A triple-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2018;31:132-8. PubMed
  13. Bingham LJ, Tam MM, Palmer AM, Cahill JL, Nixon RL. Contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis caused by lavender: A retrospective study from an Australian clinic. Contact Dermatitis. 2019;81(1):37-42. PubMed
  14. Donelli D, Antonelli M, Bellinazzi C, Gensini GF, Firenzuoli F. Effects of lavender on anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine. 2019;65:153099. PubMed
  15. Firoozeei TS, Feizi A, Rezaeizadeh H, Zargaran A, Roohafza HR, Karimi M. The antidepressant effects of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.): A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. Complement Ther Med 2021;59:102 PubMed
  16. Kodama T, Watanabe T, Mataki N, Kanoh S, Kichikawa Y. Acute eosinophilic pneumonia following aromatherapy with essential oil. Respir Med Case Rep 2022;37:101657. PubMed
  17. Barbaud A, Kurihara F, Raison-Peyron N, et al. Allergic contact dermatitis from essential oil in consumer products: Mode of uses and value of patch-tests with an essential oil series. Results of a French study of the DAG (dermato-allergy group of the Fren
  18. Ozer H, Sayan ZA, Baloglu I, Ozturk Y, Yonet F, Turkmen K. Unknown criminals for kidney: Acute interstitial nephritis due to lavender tea. Explore (NY) 2023. PubMed
  19. Kasper S, Volz HP, Möller HJ, et al. Lavender oil preparation Silexan is effective in mild-to-moderate major depression: a randomized, placebo- and reference-controlled trial. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024. PubMed
  20. Simaei SR, Askari VR, Rostami M, et al. Lavender and metformin effectively propagate progesterone levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Fitoterapia 2023;172:105720. PubMed

See these in context on the Lavender monograph →

Passion Flower 19 references
  1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
  2. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  3. Fisher AA, Purcell P, Le Couteur DG. Toxicity of Passiflora incarnata L. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 2000;38:63-6.
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Valerian 37 references
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Lemon Balm 12 references
  1. Wolbling RH, Leonhardt K. Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. Phytomedicine 1994;1:25-31.
  2. Akhondzadeh S, Noroozian M, Mohammadi M, et al. Melissa officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a double blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2003;74:863-6. PubMed
  3. Kennedy DO, Scholey AB, Tildesley NT, et al. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm). Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2002;72:953-64. PubMed
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  10. Alijaniha F, et al. Heart palpitation relief with Melissa officinalis leaf extract: double blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial of efficacy and safety. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;164:378-384. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.02.007. Epub 2015 Feb 11. PubMed
  11. Araj-Khodaei M, Noorbala AA, Yarani R, et al. A double-blind, randomized pilot study for comparison of Melissa officinalis L. and Lavandula angustifolia Mill. with Fluoxetine for the treatment of depression. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2020;20(1):207. PubMed
  12. Kucuk U, Pham M, Raza Raja MH, Saad Shaukat MH, Clark R. Transient complete atrioventricular block associated with herbal supplement use. S D Med 2023;76(7):311-313.

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California Poppy 3 references
  1. Hanus M, Lafon J, Mathieu M. Double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a fixed combination containing two plant extracts (Crataegus oxyacantha and Eschscholtzia californica) and magnesium in mild-to-moderate
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  3. Paul LD, Maurer HH. Studies on the metabolism and toxicological detection of the Eschscholtzia californica alkaloids californine and protopine in urine using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2003;789:43-5

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Marjoram 11 references
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  2. Orhan, I., Kartal, M., Kan, Y., and Sener, B. Activity of essential oils and individual components against acetyl- and butyrylcholinesterase. Z.Naturforsch.C. 2008;63(7-8):547-553.
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  4. Anderson C, Lis-Balchin M, Kirk-Smith M. Evaluation of massage with essential oils on childhood atopic eczema. Phytother Res 2000;14(6):452-6. PubMed
  5. Ou, M. C., Hsu, T. F., Lai, A. C., Lin, Y. T., and Lin, C. C. Pain relief assessment by aromatic essential oil massage on outpatients with primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial. J Obstet.Gynaecol.Res 2012;38(5):817-822. PubMed
  6. Chung, Y. K., Heo, H. J., Kim, E. K., Kim, H. K., Huh, T. L., Lim, Y., Kim, S. K., and Shin, D. H. Inhibitory effect of ursolic acid purified from Origanum majorana L on the acetylcholinesterase. Mol.Cells 4-30-2001;11(2):137-143. DOI
  7. Yazdanparast, R. and Shahriyary, L. Comparative effects of Artemisia dracunculus, Satureja hortensis and Origanum majorana on inhibition of blood platelet adhesion, aggregation and secretion. Vascul.Pharmacol 2008;48(1):32-37. PubMed
  8. Mohamed MS, Saad HH, and Abd El Khalek MG. Daily consumption of marjoram oil improve the health status of patients with asthma. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition. 2008;7(2):312-316. DOI
  9. Bina F, Rahimi R. Sweet marjoram: a review of ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and biological activities. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med 2017;22(1):175-85.
  10. Haj-Husein I, Tukan S, Alkazaleh F. The effect of marjoram (Origanum majorana) tea on the hormonal profile of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled pilot study. J Hum Nutr Diet 2016;29(1):105-11.
  11. Chahra C, Anis H, Bissene D, et al. The effect of Origanum majorana tea on motor and non-motor symptoms in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease: A randomized controlled pilot study. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2021 Oct;91:23-7. PubMed

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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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