Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 7 of 8 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Sound Sleep Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Gaia Herbs

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

Sound Sleep is a dietary supplement by Gaia Herbs with 8 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for wound healing, varicose veins and poor circulation, anxiety and stress.Based on those ingredients, 1,103 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Valerian Root Extract, Hops Strobile Extract, Passionflower flowering vine extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Sound Sleep 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 0 of its 8 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Extract Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (1,731 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Sound Sleep has eight active ingredients. The product contains a proprietary extract blend, plus six named herbal extracts—gotu kola, skullcap, valerian, hops, passion flower, and California poppy—plus lavender flower essential oil.

These are traditional sleep and relaxation herbs; most are included because they're thought to have mild sedative properties. Vervain aerial parts are also listed but we hold no interaction data for that ingredient.

The capsules also contain three inactive ingredients: glycerin, water, and hypromellose (a binder).

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 support for occasional sleeplessness.
  • We looked for evidence on: Insomnia, Anxiety, Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Adjustment disorders, Perioperative anxiety, Muscle cramps — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Lavender is rated "Possibly Effective" for Dysmenorrhea (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Valerian is rated "Possibly Effective" for Insomnia.
  • Also on file: Passion Flower is rated "Possibly Effective" for Pre-procedural anxiety, Insomnia.

The evidence for this product's ingredients is mixed and in many cases thin. Valerian for insomnia is rated possibly effective—the strongest claim in this product.

Passion flower is also possibly effective for insomnia and pre-procedural anxiety. Gotu kola is possibly effective for venous insufficiency and burns, but rated possibly ineffective for radiation dermatitis and cognitive function.

For the other herbs—skullcap, hops, California poppy, and lavender—the evidence we hold rates them as having insufficient reliable data for the conditions listed (anxiety, insomnia, stress, and others). That doesn't mean they don't work; it means quality research is limited.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Gotu Kola Skullcap Valerian Hops Passion Flower California Poppy Lavender

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

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

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 7 of the 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.

Overall, these ingredients are generally well tolerated in the short term. The most common side effects are drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and headache—which makes sense for a sleep formula.

A small number of trial participants taking skullcap reported digestive upset. Valerian and passion flower can cause vivid dreams, and valerian may trigger withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly after extended use, so taper slowly if you've taken it for a while.

There's historical concern about gotu kola and liver toxicity; the facts note at least four case reports, though contaminants couldn't be ruled out and one clinical trial of 120 mg daily for six months showed no liver changes. Lavender essential oil is toxic if swallowed and can irritate skin.

None of these ingredients should be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding—the safety data are insufficient or advise against it.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Gotu Kola Skullcap Valerian Hops Passion Flower California Poppy Lavender

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?
  • 7 of the 7 matched ingredients can interact with medications — California Poppy, Gotu Kola, Lavender, Hops, Valerian, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • For scale: 1,104 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 Sound Sleep, check your medications against these types: CNS depressants (sedatives, sleep aids, anxiety meds, painkillers, antihistamines, muscle relaxers)—moderate severity. If you take alprazolam (Xanax), alcohol, or estrogen-based medications (birth control, hormone therapy), flag those too.

Glucuronidated drugs—medications metabolized through a specific liver pathway—may be affected by valerian. Drugs broken down by CYP3A4 or CYP2D6 enzymes may have minor interactions.

Use the medication checker below to search your exact drugs.

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.

Sound Sleep is built on herbs with sedative properties, so it's meant for people seeking a natural sleep aid or calming supplement. If you take any sedating medications—prescription sleep aids, anti-anxiety drugs, narcotic painkillers, antihistamines, or muscle relaxers—talk to your pharmacist before starting this product; the combined effect could be too strong.

Avoid it if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Taper slowly if you stop after extended use.

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

Assessment coverage: 7 of 8 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated May 23, 2024.

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

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Sound Sleep, straight from the product label.

Brand Gaia Herbs
Barcode (UPC) 751063996662
Net contents 120 Vegan Liquid Phyto-Cap(s)(R)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD May 23, 2024
DSLD ID 309585
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating)
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 Sound Sleep 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:
3 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
40
UPC/BARCODE
751063996662
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories10 Calorie(s)--
Total Carbohydrates2 Gram(s)1%
Proprietary Extract Blend1731 mg--
Gotu Kola leaf extract0 NP--
Skullcap Aerial Parts Extract0 NP--
Valerian Root Extract0 NP--
Hops Strobile Extract0 NP--
Vervain Aerial Parts Extract0 NP--
Passionflower flowering vine extract0 NP--
California Poppy Whole Plant Extract0 NP--
Lavender Flower Essential Oil Extract0 NP--

Other ingredients: Glycerin, Water, Hypromellose

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 2-3 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.

Formulation

Natural separation may occur. This does not affect product quality. New & Improved Formula

Sleep Support Melatonin-Free support for occasional sleepless nights

Melatonin-Free support for occasional sleepless nights

Formula

Each 3 capsules contain 4,350 mg dry herb equivalent.

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.

General Statements

Enter ID# at meetyourherbs.com

See for yourself

Sound Sleep by Gaia Herbs label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Sound Sleep by Gaia Herbs

These are the 8 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container40 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.

Other (inactive) ingredients: Glycerin, Water, Hypromellose. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Sound Sleep by Gaia Herbs Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Sound Sleep?

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
1,103Drugs
627 Moderate 476 Minor

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Sound Sleep 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.

Valerian Root Extract6 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

Hops Strobile Extract4 drug types · 863 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of hops with sedative drugs might cause additive sedation.
Some animal research shows that hops has sedative effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of hops might interfere with hormone replacement therapy due to competition for estrogen receptors.
In vitro research suggests that certain hops constituents can competitively bind to estrogen receptors. However, most hops extracts contain very small amounts of these constituents.

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

Hops extract does not seem to affect the metabolism of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that flavonoid constituents of hops inhibit CYP1A2 enzyme activity. However, a pharmacokinetic study in healthy postmenopausal patients shows that taking a standardized extract of spent hops containing prenylated phenols, as 59.5 mg twice daily for 2 weeks, does not affect levels of caffeine, a CYP1A2 probe substrate.

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

Theoretically, hops extract might alter metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates; however, this effect may not be clinically significant.
Animal research suggests that specific constituents of hops, called lupulones, can induce hepatic CYP3A4 enzyme activity. However, a pharmacokinetic study in healthy postmenopausal patients with normal metabolism shows that taking a standardized extract of spent hops containing prenylated phenols, as 59.5 mg twice daily for 2 weeks, decreases the concentration of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 probe substrate, by 7.6%. This reduction is unlikely to be clinically relevant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Passionflower flowering vine 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

Gotu Kola leaf extract2 drug types · 579 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking gotu kola might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
In vitro research suggests that gotu kola may have sedative effects via binding of GABA receptors.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, taking gotu kola with hepatotoxic drugs might have additive adverse effects.
There are at least four case reports of hepatotoxicity associated with the use of gotu kola. However, more information is needed to determine if gotu kola was the causative factor in these cases.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Skullcap Aerial Parts Extract1 drug type · 248 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, skullcap can have additive effects when used with other CNS depressants.
Animal and clinical research suggests that skullcap can cause sedation and cognitive impairment.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

California Poppy Whole Plant Extract1 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

Lavender Flower Essential Oil Extract1 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
The maker

Brand information

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

Gaia Herbs

See all Gaia Herbs products
Name
Gaia Herbs, Inc.
Street Address
101 Gaia Herbs Dr.
City
Brevard
State
NC
ZipCode
28712
Web Address
GaiaHerbs.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Sound Sleep by Gaia Herbs: Common Questions

Does Sound Sleep by Gaia Herbs interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Sound Sleep has a known interaction with 1,103 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Sound Sleep contains 8 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.
Will this make me drowsy the next morning?
Drowsiness and dizziness are reported side effects, and morning fatigue has been noted in some users. It depends on the dose, your sensitivity, and how long it's been since you took it. If you're sensitive to sedating herbs, start with a low dose to see how you feel.
Is this safe to take every night?
Long-term safety isn't well studied for most of these ingredients. The data support short-term use. Valerian in particular can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop suddenly after long use, so if you take it nightly for weeks, taper the dose slowly rather than stopping cold.
Can I take this while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. None of these ingredients have enough safety data in pregnancy or lactation, and some are traditionally avoided during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor or midwife before use.
What does valerian do?
Valerian root extract is included because it's rated possibly effective for insomnia. It's thought to have sedative effects, though the exact mechanism isn't fully clear. Common side effects are drowsiness, dizziness, and vivid dreams.
Can I use this with alcohol?
No. Valerian in this product can have additive sedative effects with alcohol, meaning the combination could be too strong and unsafe. Avoid alcohol while taking Sound Sleep.
Does this product have any fillers?
It contains three inactive ingredients—glycerin, water, and hypromellose—which are a binder and preservative, not fillers in the nutritional sense. The active ingredients are the herbal extracts and oils listed on the label.

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.

Sound Sleep label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Sound Sleep’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Gotu Kola

Interacts with 579 drugs

Gotu kola is a traditional Ayurvedic and Asian herb that people use for wound healing, circulation, skin problems, and as a calming or memory-supporting herb. Some early studies suggest poss...

Read the full Gotu Kola monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Skullcap

Interacts with 248 drugs

American skullcap is an herb traditionally used to calm anxiety and promote relaxation, but solid human evidence is very limited. It is generally considered relatively safe for short-term us...

Read the full Skullcap 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 →
Herb & supplement monograph

Hops

Interacts with 863 drugs

Hops are most often used for sleep and mild anxiety, frequently combined with valerian, but the human evidence is limited and not very strong. They are generally well tolerated when used sho...

Read the full Hops 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

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

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 →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Sound Sleep'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 115 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.

Gotu Kola 18 references
  1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
  2. Pointel JP, Boccalon H, Cloarec M, et al. Titrated extract of Centella asiatica (TECA) in the treatment of venous insufficiency of the lower limbs. Angiol 1987;38:46-50. PubMed
  3. Brinkhaus B, Lindner M, Schuppan D, Hahn EG. Chemical, pharmacological and clinical profile of the east Asian medical plant Centella asiatica. Phytomedicine 2000;7:427-48.
  4. Eun HC, Lee AY. Contact dermatitis due to madecassol. Contact Dermatitis 1985;13:310-3.. PubMed
  5. Hausen BM. Centella asiatica (Indian pennywort), an effective therapeutic but a weak sensitizer. Contact Dermatitis 1993;29:175-9..
  6. Bilbao I, Aguirre A, Zabala R, et al. Allergic contact dermatitis from butoxyethyl nicotinic acid and Centella asiatica extract. Contact Dermatitis 1995;33:435-6.
  7. Cesarone MR, Incandela L, De Sanctis MT, et al. Evaluation of treatment of diabetic microangiopathy with total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica: a clinical prospective randomized trial with a microcirculatory model. Angiology 2001;52 Suppl 2 DOI
  8. Bradwejn J, Zhou Y, Koszycki D, Shlik J. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the effects of Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) on acoustic startle response in healthy subjects. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2000;20:680-4. PubMed
  9. Young GL, Jewell D. Creams for preventing stretch marks in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2000;(2):CD000066. PubMed
  10. Jorge OA, Jorge AD. Hepatotoxicity associated with the ingestion of Centella asiatica. Rev Esp Enferm Dig 2005;97:115-24. PubMed
  11. Mallol J, Belda MA, Costa D, et al. Prophylaxis of striae gravidarum with a topical formulation. A double blind trial. Int J Cosmet Sci 1991;3:51-7.
  12. Izu, R., Aguirre, A., Gil, N., and Diaz-Perez, J. L. Allergic contact dermatitis from a cream containing Centella asiatica extract. Contact Dermatitis 1992;26(3):192-193.
  13. Santucci, B., Picardo, M., and Cristaudo, A. Contact dermatitis due to Centelase. Contact Dermatitis 1985;13(1):39. PubMed
  14. Vena, G. A. and Angelini, G. Contact allergy to Centelase. Contact Dermatitis 1986;15(2):108-109. PubMed
  15. Marastoni, F., Baldo, A., Redaelli, G., and Ghiringhelli, L. [Centella asiatica extract in venous pathology of the lower limbs and its evaluation as compared with tribenoside]. Minerva Cardioangiol. 1982;30(4):201-207.
  16. Danese, P., Carnevali, C., and Bertazzoni, M. G. Allergic contact dermatitis due to Centella asiatica extract. Contact Dermatitis 1994;31(3):201.
  17. Bilbao, I., Aguirre, A., Zabala, R., Gonzalez, R., Raton, J., and Diaz Perez, J. L. Allergic contact dermatitis from butoxyethyl nicotinic acid and Centella asiatica extract. Contact Dermatitis 1995;33(6):435-436.
  18. Dantuluri S, North-lewis P, Karthik SV. Gotu Kola induced hepatotoxicity in a child - need for caution with alternative remedies. Dig Liver Dis. 2011;43(6):500. PubMed

See these in context on the Gotu Kola monograph →

Skullcap 3 references
  1. Wolfson P, Hoffmann DL. An investigation into the efficacy of Scutellaria lateriflora in healthy volunteers. Altern Ther Health Med 2003;9:74-8.
  2. Awad, R., Arnason, J. T., Trudeau, V., Bergeron, C., Budzinski, J. W., Foster, B. C., and Merali, Z. Phytochemical and biological analysis of skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora L.): a medicinal plant with anxiolytic properties. Phytomedicine. 2003;10(8):6 PubMed
  3. Brock C, Whitehouse J, Tewfik I, Towell T. American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora): a randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study of its effects on mood in healthy volunteers. Phytother Res 2014;28(5):692-8.

See these in context on the Skullcap monograph →

Valerian 37 references
  1. Willey LB, Mady SP, Cobaugh DJ, Wax PM. Valerian overdose: a case report. Vet Hum Toxicol 1995;37:364-5.
  2. Kuhlmann J, Berger W, Podzuweit H, Schmidt U. The influence of valerian treatment on "reaction time, alertness and concentration" in volunteers. Pharmacopsychiatry 1999;32:235-41. PubMed
  3. Klepser TB, Klepser ME. Unsafe and potentially safe herbal therapies. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1999;56:125-38. PubMed
  4. Houghton PJ. The scientific basis for the reputed activity of Valerian. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999;51:505-12. PubMed
  5. Garges HP, Varia I, Doraiswamy PM. Cardiac complications and delirium associated with Valerian root withdrawal. [Letter to the Editor]. JAMA 1998;280:1566-7. PubMed
  6. Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
  7. MacGregor FB, Abernethy VE, Dahabra S, et al. Hepatotoxicity of herbal remedies. BMJ 1989;299:1156-7. PubMed
  8. Leathwood PD, Chauffard F. Aqueous extract of valerian reduces latency to fall asleep in man. Planta Med 1985;2:144-8. PubMed
  9. Hadley S, Petry JJ. Valerian. Am Fam Physician 2003;67:1755-8..
  10. Glass JR, Sproule BA, Herrmann N, et al. Acute pharmacological effects of temazepam, diphenhydramine, and valerian in healthy elderly subjects. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2003;23:260-8. PubMed
  11. Lefebvre T, Foster BC, Drouin CE, et al. In vitro activity of commercial valerian root extracts against human cytochrome P450 3A4. J Pharm Pharmaceut Sci 2004;7:265-73.
  12. Yuan CS, Mehendale S, Xiao Y, et al. The gamma-aminobutyric acidergic effects of valerian and valerenic acid on rat brainstem neuronal activity. Anesth Analg 2004;98:353-8. PubMed
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Hops 15 references
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  6. Henderson MC, Miranda CL, Stevens JF, et al. In vitro inhibition of human P450 enzymes by prenylated flavonoids from hops, Humulus lupulus. Xenobiotica 2000;30:235-51.. PubMed
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  8. Skorska, C., Mackiewicz, B., Gora, A., Golec, M., and Dutkiewicz, J. Health effects of inhalation exposure to organic dust in hops farmers. Ann.Univ Mariae.Curie Sklodowska [Med] 2003;58(1):459-465.
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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.
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  6. Mori A, Hasegawa K, Murasaki M, et al. Clinical evaluation of Passiflamin (passiflora extract) on neurosis - multicenter double blind study in comparison with mexazolam. Rinsho Hyoka (Clinical Evaluation) 1993;21:383-440.
  7. Miyasaka LS, Atallah AN, Soares BG. Passiflora for anxiety disorder. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007;(1):CD004518. DOI
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  11. Smith, G. W., Chalmers, T. M., and Nuki, G. Vasculitis associated with herbal preparation containing Passiflora extract. Br J Rheumatol. 1993;32(1):87-88.
  12. Soulimani, R., Younos, C., Jarmouni, S., Bousta, D., Misslin, R., and Mortier, F. Behavioural effects of Passiflora incarnata L. and its indole alkaloid and flavonoid derivatives and maltol in the mouse. J Ethnopharmacol. 1997;57(1):11-20. PubMed
  13. Nojoumi M, Ghaeli P, Salimi S, Sharifi A, Raisi F. Effects of Passion Flower Extract, as an Add-On Treatment to Sertraline, on Reaction Time in Patients ?with Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study. Iran J Psychiatry. 2016;1
  14. Rokhtabnak F, Ghodraty MR, Kholdebarin A, et al. Comparing the Effect of Preoperative Administration of Melatonin and Passiflora incarnata on Postoperative Cognitive Disorders in Adult Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery. Anesth Pain Med. 2016;7(1):e4123 PubMed
  15. Dantas LP, de Oliveira-Ribeiro A, de Almeida-Souza LM, Groppo FC. Effects of passiflora incarnata and midazolam for control of anxiety in patients undergoing dental extraction. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2017;22(1):e95-e101. PubMed
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  17. da Cunha RS, Amorim KS, Gercina AC, et al. Herbal medicines as anxiolytics prior to third molar surgical extraction. A randomized controlled clinical trial. Clin Oral Investig. 2020. PubMed
  18. Schäfer AM, Gilgen PM, Spirgi C, et al. Constituents of Passiflora incarnata, but Not of Valeriana officinalis, Interact with the Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptides (OATP)2B1 and OATP1A2. Planta Med. 2021. PubMed
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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
  2. Paul LD, Springer D, Staack RF, et al. Cytochrome P450 isoenzymes involved in rat liver microsomal metabolism of californine and protopine. Eur J Pharmacol 2004;485:69-79. PubMed
  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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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
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  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
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  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
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  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

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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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