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

VF Syrup Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Christopher's Original Formulas

Liquid Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Major
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

VF Syrup is a dietary supplement by Christopher's Original Formulas with 7 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for short-term constipation relief, bowel cleansing before procedures, occasional irregularity.Based on those ingredients, 1,374 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Sage, Fennel, Senna. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of VF Syrup by Christopher's Original Formulas

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 7 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label doesn't break down how much of each component you get.

VF Syrup contains seven active ingredients: senna (a stimulant laxative), sage (an herbal extract), fennel (a seed traditionally used to support digestion), black walnut, wormwood, tansy, and male fern. The product also contains a proprietary blend — a mix of these herbs in proportions the maker doesn't fully disclose on the label.

Beyond the active ingredients, there is a base listed as an inactive ingredient.

Does it work?

Strong evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Strong

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

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Bowel cleansing and digestive support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Bowel preparation, Constipation, Intestinal parasite infection, Dyspepsia, Flatulence, Gastritis — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Senna is rated "Likely Effective" for Constipation (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Senna is rated "Possibly Effective" for Bowel preparation.
  • Also on file: Fennel is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Constipation, Dyspepsia, Flatulence.

Senna is likely effective for constipation and possibly effective for bowel preparation. Sage is possibly effective for menopausal symptoms, high cholesterol, and cognitive function, though postoperative pain relief is possibly ineffective.

Fennel is possibly effective for painful periods (dysmenorrhea). For the other ingredients — black walnut, wormwood, tansy, and male fern — the evidence we hold does not establish effectiveness for any condition.

Several of these ingredients also carry ratings of insufficient reliable evidence for various uses.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Senna Sage Fennel Black Walnut Wormwood Tansy Male Fern

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.

Senna is generally well tolerated for short-term occasional use but should not be used long-term without medical advice; common side effects include abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and urine discoloration. Sage is generally well tolerated but concentrated extracts should be used cautiously, and medicinal amounts are likely unsafe in pregnancy due to thujone content.

Fennel and black walnut are generally well tolerated as foods, but concentrated supplements need caution. Wormwood contains thujone, a neurotoxin, and short-term use of properly prepared products may be acceptable, but higher amounts can be toxic.

Tansy contains thujone and is generally discouraged for internal use — it has been linked to serious toxicity including rapid pulse, irregular heartbeat, severe stomach distress, and even death at very small doses. Male fern is potentially toxic with a very narrow margin between an effective and poisonous dose and should be avoided.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Senna Sage Fennel Black Walnut Wormwood Tansy Male Fern

Meds to double-check

Major interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Major identified

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

Why this rating?
  • 5 of the 7 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Fennel, Sage, Senna, Tansy, Wormwood.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; seizure medications; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications.
  • For scale: 1,375 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 VF Syrup, double-check if you use alcohol (major interaction with tansy), blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, birth control pills or estrogen therapy, digoxin or other heart medications, diuretics, seizure medications, sedatives or CNS depressants, blood pressure medications, drugs metabolized by CYP2D6, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, or CYP3A4 enzymes, ciprofloxacin, or tamoxifen. These medications may be affected by ingredients in this product.

No interactions are documented for black walnut or male fern in our data.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

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

VF Syrup is primarily a senna-based laxative with several supporting herbal ingredients. It may help with constipation short-term, but this product is not for long-term daily use without your doctor's approval.

If you take any prescription medications — especially blood thinners, heart medications, estrogen products, seizure drugs, sedatives, or blood pressure medications — talk to your pharmacist before starting. The tansy and wormwood in this formula carry serious toxicity concerns and shouldn't be used casually.

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

Assessment coverage: 7 of 7 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Apr 25, 2019.

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 VF Syrup, straight from the product label.

Brand Christopher's Original Formulas
Barcode (UPC) 084783885177
Net contents 4 fl. Oz.; 118 mL
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Apr 25, 2019
DSLD ID 200578
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Liquid
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
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 VF Syrup by Christopher's Original Formulas, 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:
1 Teaspoon(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Teaspoon(s)
Servings per container
24
UPC/BARCODE
084783885177
IngredientAmount% DV
Senna0 NP--
Proprietary Blend0 NP--
Sage0 NP--
Fennel0 NP--
Black Walnut0 NP--
Wormwood0 NP--
Tansy0 NP--
Male Fern0 NP--

Other ingredients: A base of

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

Directions: As a dietary supplement, take 1 teaspoon each morning and night for 3 days. On the 4th day take 2 Quick Colon Cleanse capsules. Rest 2 days and repeat this program 2 more times, or as directed by your health care professional.

Storage

Refrigerate after opening.

General Statements

Proudly Made in The U.S.A.

Brand IP Statement(s)

2018 Wholistic Botanicals L.L.C All Rights Reserved

John R. Christopher

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Formulation

No fillers or chemicals

FDA Disclaimer Statement

This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

See for yourself

VF Syrup by Christopher's Original Formulas label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in VF Syrup by Christopher's Original Formulas

These are the 7 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Teaspoon(s) Dosage formLiquid Servings per container24 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Proprietary Blend

0 NP per serving

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

Interaction report

VF Syrup by Christopher's Original Formulas Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against VF Syrup?

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
1,374Drugs
1 Major 1,373 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Sage 1,296
Fennel 740
Senna 140
Tansy 1

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in VF Syrup 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.

Sage14 drug types · 1,296 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, sage might decrease the clinical effects of anticholinergic drugs.
In vitro evidence suggests that common sage (Salvia officinalis) and Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) can inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticonvulsants

Theoretically, sage might interfere with the clinical effects of anticonvulsant drugs.
Some species of sage can cause convulsions when consumed in large quantities.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking sage with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes, common sage (Salvia officinalis) has demonstrated hypoglycemic activity. However, other clinical research in patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes shows that common sage extract does not lower fasting blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, sage might increase or decrease the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research suggests that common sage (Salvia officinalis) can cause prolonged blood pressure reduction. However, clinical research suggests that Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) can increase blood pressure in some people with hypertension. Until more is known, use with caution.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Benzodiazepines

Theoretically, taking sage might increase the sedative and adverse effects of benzodiazepines.
In vitro evidence suggests that certain components of common sage (Salvia officinalis) can bind to benzodiazepine receptors. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, sage might have additive effects when used with cholinergic drugs.
In vitro evidence suggests that common sage (Salvia officinalis) and Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) can inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking sage might increase the sedative and adverse effects of CNS depressants.
Some constituents of sage have CNS depressant activity.

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

Theoretically, sage might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro evidence suggests that aqueous extracts of sage can inhibit CYP2C19. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, sage might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro evidence suggests that aqueous extracts of sage can inhibit CYP2C9. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, sage might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro evidence suggests that aqueous extracts of sage can inhibit CYP2D6. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (Cyp2E1) Substrates

Theoretically, sage might decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2E1.
Animal research suggests that drinking common sage (Salvia officinalis) tea increases the expression of CYP2E1. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, sage might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro evidence suggests that aqueous extracts of sage can inhibit CYP3A4. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, sage might interfere with hormone therapy.
In vitro evidence suggests that geraniol, a constituent of Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia), exerts estrogenic activity. The clinical significance of this effect is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, sage might increase levels of drugs transported by P-glycoprotein.
In vitro research suggests that common sage (Salvia officinalis) can inhibit the multi-drug transporter protein, P-glycoprotein. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Fennel6 drug types · 740 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, fennel might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.

Animal research suggests that fennel oil has antithrombotic and antiplatelet effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)

Theoretically, fennel might decrease the levels and clinical effects of ciprofloxacin.

Animal research shows that fennel reduces ciprofloxacin bioavailability by nearly 50%, possibly due to the metal cations such as calcium, iron, and magnesium contained in fennel. This study also found that fennel increased tissue distribution and slowed elimination of ciprofloxacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might decrease the effects of contraceptive drugs due to competition for estrogen receptors.

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity.

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

Theoretically, fennel might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.

In vitro research suggests that fennel inhibits CYP3A4 enzyme activity. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might interfere with hormone replacement therapy due to competition for estrogen receptors.

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might decrease the antiestrogenic effect of tamoxifen.

Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity, which may interfere with the antiestrogenic activity of tamoxifen.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Senna5 drug types · 140 drugs

Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Theoretically, senna might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with digoxin.
Overuse/abuse of senna increases the risk of adverse effects from cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, due to potassium depletion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, senna might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Overuse of senna might compound diuretic-induced potassium loss and increase the risk for hypokalemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Some preliminary clinical evidence suggests that senna reduces the absorption of estradiol and decreases serum concentrations of estrone and estrone sulfate by decreasing intestinal transit time.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Stimulant Laxatives

Theoretically, senna might increase the risk for fluid and electrolyte loss when taken with other stimulant laxatives.
Senna is a stimulant laxative; concomitant use with other stimulant laxatives might compound fluid and electrolyte loss.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, excessive use of senna might increase the effects of warfarin.
Senna has stimulant laxative effects and can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding. In one case report, excessive use of senna for 3 weeks resulted in diarrhea, bloody stools, and an elevated INR of 11.9.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Wormwood1 drug type · 50 drugs

Anticonvulsants

Theoretically, taking wormwood might interfere with the effects of anticonvulsant drugs.
Thujone, a constituent of wormwood, has convulsant effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Tansy1 drug type · 1 drug

Alcohol (Ethanol)

Thujone, a constituent of tansy, can increase and alter the effects of alcohol.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for VF Syrup, from the product label.

Christopher's Original Formulas

See all Christopher's Original Formulas products
Name
Wholistic Botanicals L.L.C.
City
Spanish Fork
State
UT
ZipCode
84660
Phone Number
1-800-453-1406
Web Address
www.drchristopher.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

VF Syrup by Christopher's Original Formulas: Common Questions

Does VF Syrup by Christopher's Original Formulas interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, VF Syrup has a known interaction with 1,374 medications, including 1 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
VF Syrup contains 7 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Is it safe to take VF Syrup while breastfeeding?
The safety data is mixed. Senna and fennel are possibly safe while breastfeeding, but sage medicinal amounts and wormwood are possibly unsafe or not well studied. Tansy and male fern are considered likely unsafe. Because this is a blend of multiple herbs with different safety profiles, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether it's appropriate for you.
What should I expect if I take this as a laxative?
Senna typically causes bowel movements and is likely effective for constipation. Common side effects include abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and darkening of the urine. These usually happen shortly after dosing and are not serious in short-term use, but if you take it too often or in large amounts, you risk losing potassium and other electrolytes.
Can I take VF Syrup long-term?
No. Senna and several other ingredients in this product are not meant for long-term daily use without medical supervision. Extended use risks fluid and electrolyte imbalances and other serious effects. Use this only short-term as directed, and check with your doctor if constipation persists.
Why do I need to avoid this product if I'm pregnant?
Sage contains thujone and is likely unsafe in pregnancy. Wormwood may stimulate the uterus and is considered unsafe. Tansy has been traditionally used to bring on abortion and is likely unsafe. Male fern is also likely unsafe due to toxicity. If you're pregnant, do not take this product without explicit approval from your doctor.
What is the proprietary blend, and why isn't it fully listed?
A proprietary blend is a mix of herbs in undisclosed proportions — the brand keeps the exact amounts secret to protect their formula. The individual ingredients are listed, but you won't know how much of each one you're getting in every dose. This can make it harder to predict effects or side effects.
I'm on a blood thinner — can I use VF Syrup?
Senna can increase the effects of blood thinners like warfarin, and fennel may also increase bleeding risk. Additionally, the diarrhea senna causes can raise your blood thinner levels further. Do not start this product without checking with your pharmacist or doctor first, as it could increase your bleeding risk.

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.

VF Syrup label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind VF Syrup’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Senna

Interacts with 140 drugs

Senna is a plant-based stimulant laxative that is widely used and generally effective for short-term relief of constipation. It is best used occasionally and for only a few days at a time, s...

Read the full Senna monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Sage

Interacts with 1,296 drugs

Sage is a common kitchen herb that is generally safe in food amounts and is traditionally used for sore throats, digestion, sweating, and memory. Some early research is encouraging for sore...

Read the full Sage monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Fennel

Interacts with 740 drugs

Fennel is a Mediterranean herb widely used as a food and spice, and traditionally taken for digestive complaints, colic, and menstrual cramps. Some small studies suggest possible benefit for...

Read the full Fennel monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Black Walnut

Black walnut is a tree whose green hulls are traditionally used as a natural antiparasitic and digestive remedy, but solid human evidence for these uses is lacking. It contains a compound ca...

Read the full Black Walnut monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Wormwood

Interacts with 50 drugs

Wormwood is a very bitter herb traditionally used to stimulate appetite and ease digestion, and it has early research interest in Crohn's disease. It contains thujone, which can be toxic in...

Read the full Wormwood monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Tansy

Interacts with 1 drug

Tansy is a traditional bitter herb that contains thujone, a compound that can be toxic in higher amounts. Because of real safety concerns and very limited modern evidence, most people should...

Read the full Tansy monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Male Fern

Male fern is an old herbal remedy that was once used as a powerful treatment to expel tapeworms. It is now considered outdated and potentially dangerous because of its narrow safety margin a...

Read the full Male Fern monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

VF Syrup'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.

Senna 42 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. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  3. American Academy of Pediatrics. The transfer of drugs and other chemicals into human milk. Pediatrics 2001;108:776-89. PubMed
  4. Nusko G, Schneider B, Schneider I, et al. Anthranoid laxative use is not a risk factor for colorectal neoplasia: results of a prospective case control study. Gut 2000;46:651-5. PubMed
  5. Seybold U, Landauer N, Hillebrand S, Goebel FD. Senna-induced hepatitis in a poor metabolizer. Ann Intern Med 2004;141:650-1. PubMed
  6. Vanderperren B, Rizzo M, Angenot L, et al. Acute liver failure with renal impairment related to the abuse of senna anthraquinone glycosides. Ann Pharmacother 2005;39:1353-7. PubMed
  7. Xing JH, Soffer EE. Adverse effects of laxatives. Dis Colon Rectum 2001;44:1201-9. PubMed
  8. Prior J, White I. Tetany and clubbing in patient who ingested large quantities of senna. Lancet 1978;2:947. PubMed
  9. Langmead L, Rampton DS. Review article: herbal treatment in gastrointestinal and liver disease--benefits and dangers. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2001;15:1239-52. PubMed
  10. Joo JS, Ehrenpreis ED, Gonzalez L, et al. Alterations in colonic anatomy induced by chronic stimulant laxatives: the cathartic colon revisited. J Clin Gastroenterol 1998;26:283-6. PubMed
  11. Godding EW. Laxatives and the special role of senna. Pharmacology 1988;36:230-6. PubMed
  12. van Os FH. Anthraquinone derivatives in vegetable laxatives. Pharmacology 1976;14:7-17. PubMed
  13. Sondheimer JM, Gervaise EP. Lubricant versus laxative in the treatment of chronic functional constipation of children: a comparative study. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 1982;1:223-6. DOI
  14. Perkin JM. Constipation in childhood: a controlled comparison between lactulose and standardized senna. Curr Med Res Opin 1977;4:540-3. PubMed
  15. Shelton MG. Standardized senna in the management of constipation in the puerperium: A clinical trial. S Afr Med J 1980;57:78-80.
  16. [No authors listed] Senna in the puerperium. Pharmacology 1992;44:23-5. PubMed
  17. Passmore AP, Davies KW, Flanagan PG, et al. A comparison of Agiolax and lactulose in elderly patients with chronic constipation. Pharmacology 1993;47:249-52. PubMed
  18. Passmore AP, Wilson-Davies K, Stoker C, Scott ME. Chronic constipation in long stay elderly patients: a comparison of lactulose and a senna-fibre combination. BMJ 1993;307:769-71. PubMed
  19. MacLennan WJ, Pooler AFWM. A comparison of sodium picosulphate ("Laxoberal") with standardised senna ("Senokot") in geriatric patients. Curr Med Res Opin. 1974;2:641-7. PubMed
  20. Kittisupamongkol W, Nilaratanakul V, Kulwichit W. Near-fatal bleeding, senna, and the opposite of lettuce. Lancet 2008;371:784. PubMed
  21. Prather CM. Pregnancy-related constipation. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 2004;6:402-4. PubMed
  22. Werthmann WM Jr, Krees SV. Quantitative excretion of Senokot in human breast milk. Med Ann Dist Columbia 1973;42:4-5.
  23. Hagemann TM. Gastrointestinal medications and breastfeeding. J Hum Lact 1998;14:259-62. PubMed
  24. Faber P, Strenge-Hesse A. Senna-containing laxatives: excretion in the breast milk? Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 1989;49:958-62.
  25. Faber P, Strenge-Hesse A. Relevance of rhein excretion into breast milk. Pharmacology 1988;36 Suppl 1:212-20. PubMed
  26. Duncan AS. Standardized senna as a laxative in the puerperium; a clinical assessment. Br Med J 1957;1:439-41. PubMed
  27. Stickel, F. and Schuppan, D. Herbal medicine in the treatment of liver diseases. Dig.Liver Dis. 2007;39(4):293-304. PubMed
  28. BALDWIN, W. F. CLINICAL STUDY OF SENNA ADMINISTRATION TO NURSING MOTHERS: ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS ON INFANT BOWEL HABITS. Can.Med Assoc.J 9-14-1963;89:566-568. DOI
  29. Sonmez, A., Yilmaz, M. I., Mas, R., Ozcan, A., Celasun, B., Dogru, T., Taslipinar, A., and Kocar, I. H. Subacute cholestatic hepatitis likely related to the use of senna for chronic constipation. Acta Gastroenterol.Belg. 2005;68(3):385-387.
  30. Beuers, U., Spengler, U., and Pape, G. R. Hepatitis after chronic abuse of senna. Lancet 2-9-1991;337(8737):372-373. PubMed
  31. Lim, A. K., Hooke, D. H., and Kerr, P. G. Anorexia nervosa and senna misuse: nephrocalcinosis, digital clubbing and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy. Med J Aust. 1-21-2008;188(2):121-122. PubMed
  32. McLaughlin, A. F. Anorexia nervosa and senna misuse: nephrocalcinosis, digital clubbing and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy. Med J Aust. 9-15-2008;189(6):348. PubMed
  33. Soyuncu, S., Cete, Y., and Nokay, A. E. Portal vein thrombosis related to Cassia angustifolia. Clin.Toxicol.(Phila) 2008;46(8):774-777.
  34. Levine, D., Goode, A. W., and Wingate, D. L. Purgative abuse associated with reversible cachexia, hypogammaglobulinaemia, and finger clubbing. Lancet 4-25-1981;1(8226):919-920. PubMed
  35. Malmquist, J., Ericsson, B., Hulten-Nosslin, M. B., Jeppsson, J. O., and Ljungberg, O. Finger clubbing and aspartylglucosamine excretion in a laxative-abusing patient. Postgrad.Med J 1980;56(662):862-864. PubMed
  36. Lewis, S. J., Heaton, K. W., Oakey, R. E., and McGarrigle, H. H. Lower serum oestrogen concentrations associated with faster intestinal transit. Br.J Cancer 1997;76(3):395-400. PubMed
  37. Lewis, S. J., Oakey, R. E., and Heaton, K. W. Intestinal absorption of oestrogen: the effect of altering transit-time. Eur.J Gastroenterol.Hepatol. 1998;10(1):33-39. PubMed
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Sage 27 references
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Fennel 17 references
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  17. Mathew T, John SK, Javali M, Vasireddy M, Nadig R, Sarma GRK. Substance use related cluster headache: A case series. Headache 2022;62(7):908-910. PubMed

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Black Walnut 3 references
  1. Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Trans. S. Klein. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
  2. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
  3. Food and Drug Administration. Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA); Public Law 108-282, Title II. Accessed on May 19, 2021. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/food/food-allergensgluten-free-guidance-documents-regulatory-infor

See these in context on the Black Walnut monograph →

Wormwood 10 references
  1. Weisbord SD, Soule JB, Kimmel PL. Poison on line-acute renal failure caused by oil of wormwood purchased through the internet. N Engl J Med 1997;337:825-7. PubMed
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  4. Lachenmeier DW, Walch SG, Padosch SA, Kroner LU. Absinthe--a review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2006;46:365-77.
  5. Padosch SA, Lachenmeier DW, Kroner LU. Absinthism: a fictitious 19th century syndrome with present impact. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2006;1:14. PubMed
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Tansy 14 references
  1. Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Trans. S. Klein. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
  2. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
  3. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  4. 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.
  5. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
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  7. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
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Male Fern 3 references
  1. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
  2. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  3. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.

See these in context on the Male Fern 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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