Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Based on 7 of 10 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Women's Balance Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Gaia Herbs

Women's Balance label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Major
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

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

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

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Women's Balance is a dietary supplement by Gaia Herbs with 10 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for water retention (diuretic), digestive upset, liver and gallbladder support.Based on those ingredients, 1,664 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Sage leaf extract, St. John's Wort extract, organic Red Clover extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Women's Balance by Gaia Herbs

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Women's Balance by Gaia Herbs — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Women's Balance 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

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

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

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

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 10 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Extract Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (430 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Black Cohosh Root Extract” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (200 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Women's Balance contains 10 ingredients, including active plant extracts and a proprietary blend. The active ingredients are dandelion root and leaf extracts, sage leaf extract, St.

John's Wort extract, black cohosh root extract, organic chaste tree extract, organic alfalfa extract, organic red clover extract, and oats milky seed extract. The product also contains organic vervain extract and triterpene glycosides.

Inactive ingredients—vegetable glycerin, sunflower lecithin, water, and hypromellose—serve as the capsule base and binding agents.

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: healthy hormone balance and occasional hot flashes relief.
  • We looked for evidence on: Menopausal symptoms, Anxiety, Depression, Memory, Joint pain, Dyslipidemia — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: St. John's Wort is rated "Likely Effective" for Depression (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Oats is rated "Likely Effective" for Dyslipidemia.
  • Also on file: St. John's Wort is rated "Possibly Effective" for Menopausal symptoms.

Evidence for this product's ingredients is mixed. St.

John's Wort is likely effective for depression. Sage leaf and oats are each possibly effective for menopausal symptoms and dyslipidemia (high cholesterol), respectively—oats specifically show likely effectiveness for coronary heart disease and dyslipidemia.

For the other active ingredients, the evidence we hold shows insufficient reliable data: dandelion, black cohosh, chaste tree, alfalfa, and red clover lack established effectiveness for the conditions this product may target. We have no effectiveness data on file for vervain or triterpene glycosides.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Dandelion Sage St. John's Wort Alfalfa Red Clover Oats Black Cohosh

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.

Dandelion (root and leaf) is generally well tolerated as food but can cause diarrhea, heartburn, stomach discomfort, and allergic reactions including rare anaphylaxis in sensitive people—especially those allergic to ragweed and related plants. Sage is generally safe short-term but should be avoided in medicinal amounts during pregnancy due to thujone; medicinal doses may also reduce breast milk supply.

St. John's Wort can cause sun sensitivity (photodermatitis), dry mouth, headache, dizziness, and fatigue, and it is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding because it may pass into breast milk and harm infants.

Alfalfa is best avoided in supplement amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to estrogen-like effects; in supplement doses it may cause diarrhea, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort. Red clover also carries estrogen-like activity and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Oats are generally well tolerated and safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding; they may cause bloating, gas, and abdominal distention, especially if fiber intake is increased too quickly.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Dandelion Sage St. John's Wort Alfalfa Red Clover Oats Black Cohosh

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?
  • 6 of the 6 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Alfalfa, Red Clover, St. John's Wort, Sage, Dandelion, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; seizure medications; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications; lithium.
  • For scale: 1,592 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.

Major interactions: St. John's Wort with heart medications (digoxin), seizure drugs (phenobarbital, phenytoin), cancer medications (irinotecan, docetaxel), HIV protease inhibitors, and immunosuppressants (tacrolimus).

Moderate interactions: Dandelion with blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs, potassium-sparing diuretics, antidiabetes medications, and lithium. Alfalfa with warfarin (blood thinner), immunosuppressants, and antidiabetes drugs.

Sage with blood pressure drugs, CNS depressants, and liver-metabolized medications. Red clover with estrogen therapy and tamoxifen.

Oats with antidiabetes drugs and insulin. If you take any of these types of medications, use the interaction checker on this page before you start.

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.

If you're looking for support with menopausal symptoms or cholesterol, some ingredients here have evidence—particularly sage and oats. However, this product's St.

John's Wort is a serious concern if you take heart, seizure, blood-thinning, diabetes, or cancer medications. The dandelion and alfalfa also raise flags for blood thinners and diabetes drugs.

Before you start, check all your medications against the interaction tool below with your pharmacist.

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

Assessment coverage: 7 of 10 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 23, 2023.

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 Women's Balance, straight from the product label.

Brand Gaia Herbs
Net contents 60 Vegan Liquid Phyto-Cap(s)(R)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 23, 2023
DSLD ID 273434
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), Menopause, 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 Women's Balance 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:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
60
IngredientAmount% DV
Total Carbohydrate1 Gram(s)1%
Dandelion root extract0 NP--
Proprietary Extract Blend430 mg--
Triterpene Glycosides1 mg--
organic Vervain extract0 NP--
Sage leaf extract0 NP--
Dandelion leaf extract0 NP--
St. John's Wort extract0 NP--
Black Cohosh Root Extract200 mg--
organic Chaste Tree extract0 NP--
organic Alfalfa extract0 NP--
organic Red Clover extract0 NP--
Oats Milky Seed Extract0 NP--

Other ingredients: Vegetable Glycerin, Sunflower Lecithin, 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.
General Statements

New look same formula

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

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 plant extracts are delivered in our patented Phyto-Caps technology. Discover our guiding truths at: Facebook Instagram @gaiaherbs

Formulation

Helps maintain a healthy hormone balance Traditionally for relief of occasional hot flashes

Natural separation may occur. This does not affect product quality.

Vegan

Gluten-free Soy-free

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Use Adults take 1 capsule 3 times daily between meals.

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

EST 1987 USA Integrity Purity Potency

Certified B Corporation

Brand IP Statement(s)

Gaia Herbs Connecting Plants & People Since 1987

Formula

Women

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

See for yourself

Women's Balance by Gaia Herbs label

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

Women's Balance label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Women's Balance by Gaia Herbs

These are the 10 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container60 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 Extract Blend

430 mg per serving

Black Cohosh Root Extract

Interacts with
652 drugs
200 mg per serving

Black cohosh is a North American plant most often used to ease menopause symptoms like hot flashes, but the research is mixed and far from settled. It...

Black Cohosh Root Extract monograph & interactions
  • › Triterpene Glycosides

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

Interaction report

Women's Balance by Gaia Herbs Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Women's Balance?

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
1,664Drugs
755 Major 907 Moderate 2 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Sage leaf extract 1,296
St. John's Wort extract 1,143
organic Red Clover extract 867
Black Cohosh Root Extract 652
organic Alfalfa extract 583

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Women's Balance interact with 1,664 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

7 of the 10 ingredients in Women's Balance interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Sage leaf extract St. John's Wort extract organic Red Clover extract Black Cohosh Root Extract organic Alfalfa extract Dandelion root extract Oats Milky Seed Extract

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Women's Balance 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.

Sage leaf extract14 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
Sage leaf extract full monograph & interactions

St. John's Wort extract47 drug types · 1,143 drugs

Alprazolam (Xanax)

St. John's wort increases the clearance of alprazolam and decreases its effects.
Alprazolam, which is used as a probe for cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) activity, has a two-fold increase in clearance when given with St. John's wort. St. John's wort reduces the half-life of alprazolam from 12.4 hours to 6 hours.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Contraceptive Drugs

St. John's wort increases the clearance of contraceptive drugs and reduces their clinical effects.
Females taking St. John's wort and oral contraceptives concurrently should use an additional or alternative form of birth control. St. John's wort can decrease norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol levels by 13% to 15%, resulting in breakthrough bleeding, irregular menstrual bleeding, or unplanned pregnancy. Bleeding irregularities usually occur within a week of starting St. John's wort and regular cycles usually return when St. John's wort is discontinued. Unplanned pregnancy has occurred with concurrent use of oral contraceptives and St. John's wort extract. St. John's wort is thought to induce the cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2), 2C9 (CYP2C9), and 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzymes, which are responsible for metabolism of progestins and estrogens in contraceptives.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

St. John's wort reduces the levels and clinical effects of cyclosporine.
Concomitant use can decrease plasma cyclosporine levels by 30% to 70%. Using St. John's wort with cyclosporine in patients with heart, kidney, or liver transplants can cause subtherapeutic cyclosporine levels and acute transplant rejection. This interaction has occurred with a St. John's wort extract standardized to 0.3% hypericin and dosed at 300-600 mg per day. Withdrawal of St. John's wort can result in a 64% increase in cyclosporine levels. St. John's wort induces cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) and the multi-drug transporter, P-glycoprotein/MDR-1, which increases cyclosporine clearance.

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

St. John's wort increases the metabolism and reduces the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.
St. John's wort induces CYP3A4 enzymes and increases metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates. Clinically significant interactions have been reported with St. John's wort products containing hyperforin 1 mg or more.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

St. John's wort reduces the levels and clinical effects of digoxin.
St. John's wort can reduce the bioavailability, serum levels, and therapeutic effects of digoxin. Taking an extract of St. John's wort 900 mg, containing hyperforin 7.5 mg or more, daily for 10-14 days, can reduce serum digoxin levels by 25% in healthy people. St. John's wort is thought to affect the multidrug transporter, P-glycoprotein, which mediates the absorption and elimination of digoxin and other drugs. St. John's wort products providing less than 7.5 mg of hyperforin daily do not appear to affect digoxin levels.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Docetaxel (Taxotere)

St. John's wort reduces the levels and clinical effects of docetaxel.
Clinical research shows that taking a specific St. John's wort product (Hyperiplant, VSM) 300 mg three times daily for 14 days increases docetaxel clearance by about 14%, resulting in decreased plasma concentrations of docetaxel in cancer patients. This is most likely due to induction of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) by St. John's wort.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Imatinib (Gleevec)

St. John's wort reduces the levels and clinical effects of imatinib.
Taking St. John's wort 900 mg daily for 2 weeks reduces the bioavailability and half-life of a single dose of imatinib and decreases its serum levels by 30% in healthy volunteers. This is most likely due to induction of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) by St. John's wort, which increases clearance of imatinib.

Likelihood Likely Evidence A
Irinotecan (Camptosar)

St. John's wort reduces the levels and clinical effects of irinotecan.
St. John's wort 900 mg daily for 18 days decreases serum levels of irinotecan by at least 50%. Clearance of the active metabolite of irinotecan, SN-38, is also increased, resulting in a 42% decrease in the area under the concentration-time curve. This is thought to be due to induction of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) by St. John's wort.

Likelihood Likely Evidence A
Mephenytoin (Mesantoin)

St. John's wort reduces the levels and clinical effects of mephenytoin.
Preliminary clinical research in healthy males shows that taking St. John's wort for 14 days induces cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) and significantly increases metabolism of mephenytoin (Mesantoin). In people with wild-type 2C19, metabolism was almost 4-fold greater in subjects who received St. John's wort compared to placebo. In contrast, patients with 2C19*2/*2 and *2/*3 genotypes did not demonstrate a similar increase in metabolism.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (Nnrtis)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of NNRTIs.
St. John's wort increases the oral clearance of nevirapine (Viramune) by 35%. Subtherapeutic concentrations are associated with therapeutic failure, development of viral resistance, and development of drug class resistance. St. John's wort induces intestinal and hepatic cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) and intestinal P-glycoprotein/MDR-1, a drug transporter.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Omeprazole (Prilosec)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of omeprazole.
Taking St. John's wort, 300 mg orally three times daily for 14 days, reduces serum concentrations of omeprazole by inducing its metabolism via cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 and 3A4. The reduction of omeprazole serum levels is dependent on CYP2C19 genotype, with reductions up to 50% in extensive metabolizers and 38% in poor metabolizers.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Oxycodone (Oxycontin)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of oxycodone.
St. John's wort can increase oxycodone metabolism by inducing cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), reducing plasma levels and analgesic activity.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of P-glycoprotein substrates.
St. John's wort induces P-glycoprotein. P-glycoprotein is a carrier mechanism responsible for transporting drugs and other substances across cell membranes. When P-glycoprotein is induced in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, it can prevent the absorption of some medications. In addition, induction of p-glycoprotein can decrease entry of drugs into the central nervous system (CNS) and decrease access to other sites of action.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Phenobarbital (Luminal)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of phenobarbital.
St. John's wort may increase the metabolism of phenobarbital. Plasma concentrations of phenobarbital should be monitored carefully. The dose of phenobarbital may need to be increased when St. John's wort is started and decreased when it is stopped.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Phenprocoumon (Marcoumar, Others)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of phenprocoumon.
St. John's wort appears to increase the metabolism of phenprocoumon (an anticoagulant that is not available in the US) by increasing the activity of the cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) enzyme. This may result in decreases in the anticoagulant effect and international normalized ratio (INR).

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of phenytoin.
St. John's wort may increase the metabolism of phenytoin. Plasma concentrations of phenytoin should be monitored closely. The dose of phenytoin may need to be increased when St. John's wort is started and decreased when it is stopped.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Protease Inhibitors (Pis)

St. John's wort reduces the levels and clinical effects of PIs.
In healthy volunteers, St. John's wort can reduce the plasma concentrations of indinavir (Crixivan) by inducing cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). This might result in treatment failure and viral resistance. St. John's wort also induces P-glycoprotein, which can result in decreased intracellular protease inhibitor concentrations and increased elimination.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of rivaroxaban.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking a single dose of rivaroxaban 20 mg after using a specific St. John's wort extract (Jarsin, Vifor SA) 450 mg orally twice daily for 14 days reduces the bioavailability of rivaroxaban by 24% and reduces rivaroxaban's therapeutic inhibition of factor Xa by 20%.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of tacrolimus.
Taking a St. John's wort extract (Jarsin) 600 mg daily significantly decreases tacrolimus serum levels. Dose increases of 60% may be required to maintain therapeutic tacrolimus levels in patients taking St. John's wort. St. John's wort is thought to lower tacrolimus levels by inducing cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzymes. A small clinical study in healthy adults also shows that taking St. John's wort 300 mg three times daily for 10 days decreases the total systemic exposure to tacrolimus by 27% and 33% after taking a single 5 mg dose of immediate-release or prolonged-release tacrolimus, respectively.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Warfarin (Coumadin)

St. John's wort decreases the levels and clinical effects of warfarin.
Taking St. John's wort significantly increases clearance of warfarin, including both its R- and S-isomers. This is likely due to induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A2 and CYP3A4. St. John's wort can also significantly decrease International Normalized Ratio (INR) in people taking warfarin. In addition, taking warfarin at the same time as St. John's wort might reduce warfarin bioavailability. When a dried extract is mixed with warfarin in an aqueous medium, up to 30% of warfarin is bound to particles, reducing its absorption.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Aminolevulinic Acid

St. John's wort might have additive phototoxic effects with aminolevulinic acid.
Concomitant use with St. John's wort extract may cause synergistic phototoxicity. Delta-aminolevulinic acid can cause a burning erythematous rash and severe swelling of the face, neck, and hands when taken with St. John's wort.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Bupropion (Wellbutrin)

St. John's wort might reduce the levels and effects of bupropion.
Clinical research shows that taking St. John's wort 325 mg three times daily for 14 days along with bupropion reduces the area under the concentration-time curve by approximately 14% and increases the clearance of bupropion by approximately 20%. This effect is attributed to the induction of cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) by St. John's wort.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Clopidogrel (Plavix)

St. John's wort might increase the levels and effects of clopidogrel.
Taking St. John's wort with clopidogrel seems to increase the activity of clopidogrel. In clopidogrel non-responders, taking St. John's wort seems to induce metabolism of clopidogrel to its active metabolite by cytochrome P450 enzymes 3A4 and 2C19. This leads to increased antiplatelet activity. Theoretically, this might lead to an increased risk of bleeding in clopidogrel responders.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Clozapine (Clozaril)

St. John's wort might decrease the levels and clinical effects of clozapine.
A case report describes a female with schizophrenia controlled on clozapine who had a return of symptoms when she started taking St. John's wort. The plasma concentration of clozapine was reduced, likely because its clearance was increased due to induction of the cytochrome P450 enzymes 3A4, 1A2, 2C9, and 2C19 by St. John's wort.

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

St. John's wort may increase the metabolism and reduce the levels of CYP1A2 substrates.
Clinical and in vitro research shows that St. John's wort induces CYP1A2, but to a lesser extent than CYP3A4.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
St. John's Wort extract full monograph & all 47 interactions

organic Red Clover extract9 drug types · 867 drugs

Estrogens

Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of red clover might interfere with estrogen therapy.
Red clover contains phytoestrogens which might have estrogenic activity in some people. Theoretically, red clover might compete for estrogen receptors and interfere with estrogen-containing drug therapy.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Methotrexate (Trexall, Others)

Theoretically, red clover might increase the risk of methotrexate toxicity.
In a case report, a 52-year-old female receiving weekly methotrexate injections for psoriasis developed symptoms of methotrexate toxicity, including severe vomiting and epigastric pain, after three days of taking red clover 430 mg daily. Toxicity resolved after red clover was discontinued. However, no liver function tests or methotrexate levels were reported.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

Theoretically, the phytoestrogens in red clover might interfere with tamoxifen.
In vitro and animal research suggests that genistein, a constituent of red clover, might antagonize the antitumor effects of tamoxifen. However, there is some evidence from an animal study that red clover does not reduce the efficacy of tamoxifen. Until more is known, tell patients taking tamoxifen to avoid red clover.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Although some laboratory research suggests that red clover may have anticoagulant and antiplatelet activity, clinical research has not shown this effect.
In vitro research suggests that genistein in red clover has antiplatelet effects, and historically, red clover was thought to have anticoagulant effects due to its coumarin content. However, some experts state that this is unlikely as most natural coumarins have not been shown to have anticoagulant effects, and their content in red clover is low. Additionally, some clinical research in postmenopausal patients found no effect on coagulation or prothrombin time with the use of red clover flowering tops 378 mg daily for 12 months or red clover isoflavone (Rimostil) 50 mg daily for 2 years.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Caffeine

Theoretically, soy might reduce the clearance of caffeine; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Red clover contains genistein. Taking genistein 1 gram daily for 14 days seems to inhibit caffeine clearance and metabolism in healthy females. However, this effect does not seem to occur with the lower amounts of genistein found in red clover. A clinical study in healthy postmenopausal individuals shows that taking red clover capsules standardized to contain 60 mg isoflavones twice daily for 14 days does not affect the pharmacokinetics of caffeine.

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

Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
In vitro evidence shows that red clover inhibits CYP1A2. However, a clinical study in healthy postmenopausal individuals shows that taking red clover capsules standardized to contain 60 mg isoflavones twice daily for 14 days does not affect the pharmacokinetics of caffeine, a CYP1A2 probe substrate.

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

Theoretically, red clover might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro evidence suggests that red clover weakly inhibits CYP2C19. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
In vitro evidence suggests that red clover might inhibit CYP2C9. However, a clinical study in healthy postmenopausal individuals shows that taking red clover capsules standardized to contain 60 mg isoflavones twice daily for 14 days does not affect the pharmacokinetics of tolbutamide, a CYP2C9 probe substrate.

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

Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
In vitro evidence shows that red clover might inhibit CYP3A4 isoenzymes. However, a clinical study in healthy postmenopausal individuals shows that taking red clover capsules standardized to contain 60 mg isoflavones twice daily for 14 days does not affect the pharmacokinetics of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 probe substrate.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
organic Red Clover extract full monograph & interactions

Black Cohosh Root Extract7 drug types · 652 drugs

Atorvastatin (Lipitor)

Taking black cohosh with atorvastatin might increase the risk for elevated liver function tests.
In one case report, a patient taking atorvastatin (Lipitor) developed significantly elevated liver function enzymes after starting black cohosh 100 mg four times daily. Liver enzymes returned to normal when black cohosh was discontinued. It is unclear whether the elevated liver enzymes were due to black cohosh itself or an interaction between atorvastatin and black cohosh.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cisplatin (Platinol-Aq)

Theoretically, black cohosh may reduce the clinical effects of cisplatin.
Animal research suggests that black cohosh might decrease the cytotoxic effect of cisplatin on breast cancer cells.

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

Some research suggests that black cohosh might inhibit CYP2D6, but there is conflicting evidence.
Some clinical research suggests that black cohosh might modestly inhibit CYP2D6 and increase levels of drugs metabolized by this enzyme. However, contradictory clinical research shows a specific black cohosh product (Remifemin, Enzymatic Therapy) 40 mg twice daily does not significantly inhibit metabolism of a CYP2D6 substrate in healthy study volunteers. Until more is known, use black cohosh cautiously in patients taking drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Estrogens

Theoretically, black cohosh may alter the effects of estrogen therapy.
Some research suggests that black cohosh has estrogenic effects. This may enhance or inhibit the effects of estrogen therapy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, taking black cohosh with hepatotoxic drugs may increase the risk of liver damage.
There is concern that black cohosh might be linked to cases of liver failure and autoimmune hepatitis.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Combining serotonergic drugs with black cohosh might cause additive serotonergic effects.
Black cohosh might increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs. Black cohosh acts as an agonist at several serotonin receptor subtypes and might interact with other serotonergic medications. In one case, a 55-year-old female who had been on stable treatment with sertraline 50 mg and duloxetine 60 mg daily developed serotonin syndrome after taking black cohosh extract 40 mg daily for 3 days.

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

Black cohosh may inhibit one form of OATP, OATP2B1, which could reduce the bioavailability and clinical effects of OATP2B1 substrates.
In vitro research shows that black cohosh modestly inhibits OATP2B1. OATPs are expressed in the small intestine and liver and are responsible for the uptake of drugs and other compounds into the body. Inhibition of OATP may reduce the bioavailability of oral drugs that are substrates of OATP.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Black Cohosh Root Extract full monograph & interactions

organic Alfalfa extract6 drug types · 583 drugs

Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, alfalfa might reduce the anticoagulant activity of warfarin.
Alfalfa contains a large amount of vitamin K. This could theoretically interfere with the activity of warfarin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, alfalfa might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Animal research suggests that alfalfa decreases blood sugar in diabetic mice. Also, in one case report, a diabetic patient experienced hypoglycemia after consuming alfalfa extract. Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, alfalfa might interfere with the activity of contraceptive drugs.
Alfalfa contains coumestrol, a phytoestrogen, and isoflavonoids, which have estrogenic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, alfalfa might interfere with hormone therapy.
Alfalfa contains coumestrol, a phytoestrogen, and isoflavonoids, which have estrogenic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, alfalfa might decrease the efficacy of immunosuppressive therapy.
In vitro research and human case reports suggest that alfalfa may have immunostimulant effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Photosensitizing Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of alfalfa with photosensitizing drugs might have additive effects.
Animal research suggests that excessive doses of alfalfa may increase photosensitivity, possibly due to its chlorophyll content. It is unclear if this effect would be clinically relevant in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
organic Alfalfa extract full monograph & interactions

Dandelion root extract7 drug types · 457 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking dandelion root along with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
In vitro research suggests that dandelion root inhibits platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, dandelion might increase the risk for hypoglycemia when used with antidiabetes drugs.
Laboratory research suggests that dandelion extract may have moderate alpha-glucosidase inhibitor activity and might also increase insulin secretion. Also, in a case report, a 58-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes who was being treated with insulin developed hypoglycemia 2 weeks after beginning to eat salads containing dandelion.

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

Theoretically, dandelion might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Laboratory research suggests that dandelion might inhibit CYP1A2. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans. However, until more is known, watch for an increase in the levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2 in patients taking dandelion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, dandelion might increase the clearance of drugs that are UDP-glucuronosyltransferase substrates.
There is some preliminary evidence that dandelion might induce UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, a phase II enzyme.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, through diuretic effects, dandelion might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.
Animal research suggests that dandelion has diuretic properties. As diuretics can increase serum lithium levels, the dose of lithium might need to be decreased when taken with dandelion.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Theoretically, dandelion might increase the risk of hyperkalemia when taken with potassium-sparing diuretics.
Dandelion contains significant amounts of potassium.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Quinolone Antibiotics

Theoretically, dandelion might lower fluoroquinolone levels.
Animal research shows that dandelion reduces absorption of ciprofloxacin and can lower levels by 73%. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Dandelion root extract full monograph & interactions

Oats Milky Seed Extract2 drug types · 86 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, oats may have additive effects with antidiabetic agents and might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Consuming oats can decrease blood glucose in patients with diabetes. In those who require insulin, taking oats 100 grams daily for 2 days reduces the insulin dose required to achieve metabolic control.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Insulin

Concomitant use of oats and insulin might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In patients with insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes, taking oats 100 grams daily for 2 days reduces the insulin dose required to achieve metabolic control.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Oats Milky Seed Extract full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Women's Balance, from the product label.

Gaia Herbs

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

Women's Balance by Gaia Herbs: Common Questions

Does Women's Balance by Gaia Herbs interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Women's Balance has a known interaction with 1,664 medications, including 755 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Women's Balance contains 10 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.
Does St. John's Wort in this product interact with antidepressants?
Our data doesn't list general antidepressants as a documented interaction category for St. John's Wort in this product. That said, St. John's Wort is known to affect how your body handles many drugs through the liver. Check your exact medications with the interaction tool on this page, or ask your pharmacist before starting.
Can I take this if I'm on a blood thinner like warfarin?
This product contains both dandelion and alfalfa, which can interact with blood thinners. Alfalfa specifically may reduce warfarin's effectiveness. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using this product with any blood thinner.
What does this product actually do?
The evidence for this product's ingredients is incomplete. St. John's Wort is likely effective for depression. Sage and oats are possibly effective for menopausal symptoms and cholesterol, respectively. For the other ingredients—dandelion, black cohosh, chaste tree, alfalfa, and red clover—we don't have enough reliable data to confirm they work for any specific purpose.
Is it safe to take this while pregnant?
No. This product contains sage, St. John's Wort, alfalfa, and red clover—all of which carry pregnancy warnings. Sage in medicinal amounts and St. John's Wort should be avoided. Alfalfa and red clover have estrogen-like effects and lack sufficient safety data in pregnancy. Talk with your doctor before use.
Can I take this if I'm breastfeeding?
St. John's Wort may pass into breast milk and harm your baby, so it should be avoided. Alfalfa and red clover also lack enough safety data for breastfeeding. Sage in medicinal amounts may reduce milk supply. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor about whether this product is right for you.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects depend on which ingredients affect you. Dandelion may cause diarrhea, heartburn, or stomach upset. Sage can cause nausea, dizziness, agitation, and diarrhea. St. John's Wort may cause headache, dizziness, dry mouth, and fatigue. Oats may cause bloating, gas, and flatulence.

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.

Women's Balance label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Women's Balance’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Dandelion

Interacts with 457 drugs

Dandelion is a common plant used in food and traditional medicine, often promoted as a natural 'water pill' and digestive aid. Human evidence for these uses is very limited, so its benefits...

Read the full Dandelion 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

St. John's Wort

Interacts with 1,143 drugs

St. John's wort is a well-studied herb most often used for mild to moderate depression, and some research suggests it may help with this. However, it has many serious interactions with presc...

Read the full St. John's Wort monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Alfalfa

Interacts with 583 drugs

Alfalfa is a nutrient-rich legume that people use for high cholesterol, menopause symptoms, and general wellness, but solid human evidence for most of these uses is limited. It is best avoid...

Read the full Alfalfa monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Red Clover

Interacts with 867 drugs

Red clover is a plant rich in isoflavones (plant compounds with weak estrogen-like activity) that is most often used for menopause symptoms like hot flashes. The evidence is mixed and genera...

Read the full Red Clover monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Oats

Interacts with 86 drugs

Oats are a well-studied whole grain whose soluble fiber (beta-glucan) can help lower cholesterol and support heart health when eaten regularly. As a food, oats are safe for most people, and...

Read the full Oats monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Black Cohosh

Interacts with 652 drugs

Black cohosh is a North American plant most often used to ease menopause symptoms like hot flashes, but the research is mixed and far from settled. It is generally well tolerated for short-t...

Read the full Black Cohosh monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Women's Balance'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 343 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.

Dandelion 27 references
  1. Maliakal PP, Wanwimolruk S. Effect of herbal teas on hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes in rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 2001;53:1323-9. PubMed
  2. Williams CA, Goldstone F, Greenham J. Flavonoids, cinnamic acids and coumarins from the different tissues and medicinal preparations of Taraxacum officinale. Phytochemistry 1996;42:121-7. PubMed
  3. Hussain Z, Waheed A, Qureshi RA, et al. The effect of medicinal plants of Islamabad and Murree region of Pakistan on insulin secretion from INS-1 cells. Phytother Res 2004;18:73-7. PubMed
  4. Racz-Kotilla E, Racz G, Solomon A. The action of Taraxacum officinale extracts on the body weight and diuresis of laboratory animals. Planta Med 1974;26:212-7. PubMed
  5. Zhu M, Wong PY, Li RC. Effects of taraxacum mongolicum on the bioavailability and disposition of ciprofloxacin in rats. J Pharm Sci 1999;88:632-4. PubMed
  6. Jovanovic M, Mimica-Dukic N, Poljacki M, Boza P. Erythema multiforme due to contact with weeds: a recurrence after patch testing. Contact Dermatitis 2003;48:17-25. PubMed
  7. Chivato T, Juan F, Montoro A, Laguna R. Anaphylaxis induced by ingestion of a pollen compound. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 1996;6:208-9.
  8. Cohen SH, Yunginger JW, Rosenberg N, Fink JN. Acute allergic reaction after composite pollen ingestion. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1979;64:270-4. PubMed
  9. Lovell CR, Rowan M. Dandelion dermatitis. Contact Dermatitis 1991;25:185-8. PubMed
  10. Agarwal SC, Crook JR, Pepper CB. Herbal remedies -- how safe are they? A case report of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation induced by herbal medication used for obesity. Int J Cardiol 2006;106:260-1. PubMed
  11. Martín-Muñoz MF, Bartolome B, Caminoa M, et al. Bee pollen: a dangerous food for allergic children. Identification of responsible allergens. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2010;38:263-5. PubMed
  12. Neef H, Cilli F, Declerck PJ, et al. Platelet anti-aggregating activity of Taraxacum officinale Weber. Phytotherapy Research 1996;10:s138-s140.
  13. Cuzzolin L, Zaffani S, and Benoni G. Safety implications regarding use of phytomedicines. Eur.J Clin Pharmacol. 2006;62:37-42. PubMed
  14. Posadzki, P., Watson, L. K., and Ernst, E. Adverse effects of herbal medicines: an overview of systematic reviews. Clin Med 2013;13(1):7-12. PubMed
  15. Wakelin, S. H., Marren, P., Young, E., and Shaw, S. Compositae sensitivity and chronic hand dermatitis in a seven-year-old boy. Br J Dermatol 1997;137(2):289-291. PubMed
  16. Ingber, A. Seasonal allergic contact dermatitis from Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) in an Israeli florist. Contact Dermatitis 2000;43(1):49.
  17. Rodriguez, B., Rodriguez, A., de Barrio, M., Tornero, P., and Baeza, M. L. Asthma induced by canary food mix. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2003;24(4):265-268.
  18. Syhaieva, I. A. [Efficiency of specific immunotherapy in treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis]. Lik.Sprava. 2006;(1-2):51-53.
  19. Catania, M. A., Oteri, A., Caiello, P., Russo, A., Salvo, F., Giustini, E. S., Caputi, A. P., and Polimeni, G. Hemorrhagic cystitis induced by an herbal mixture. South.Med.J. 2010;103(1):90-92. PubMed
  20. Goksu, E., Eken, C., Karadeniz, O., and Kucukyilmaz, O. First report of hypoglycemia secondary to dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) ingestion. Am J Emerg.Med 2010;28(1):111-112. PubMed
  21. Fernandez-Gonzalez, D., Gonzalez-Parrado, Z., Vega-Maray, A. M., Valencia-Barrera, R. M., Camazon-Izquierdo, B., De, Nuntiis P., and Mandrioli, P. Platanus pollen allergen, Pla a 1: quantification in the atmosphere and influence on a sensitizing populati
  22. Liang, K. L., Su, M. C., Shiao, J. Y., Wu, S. H., Li, Y. H., and Jiang, R. S. Role of pollen allergy in Taiwanese patients with allergic rhinitis. J Formos.Med Assoc. 2010;109(12):879-885. PubMed
  23. Yang, Y., Zhao, Y., Wang, C. S., Wang, X. D., and Zhang, L. [Prevalence of sensitization to aeroallergens in 10 030 patients with allergic rhinitis]. Zhonghua Er.Bi Yan.Hou Tou.Jing.Wai Ke Za Zhi 2011;46(11):914-920.
  24. Davies, M. G. and Kersey, P. J. Contact allergy to yarrow and dandelion. Contact Dermatitis 1986;14(4):256-257. PubMed
  25. Collins JM and Miller DR. Dandelion green bezoar following antrectomy and vagotomy - case report. J Kansas Med Soc 1966;67(6):303-304.
  26. Moriarty B, Pinney JH, Owen-Casey MP, Rustin MH, Deroide F, Laing C, Davenport A. Digital necrosis from dandelion tea. Br J Dermatol. 2013 Jul;169(1):227-30. PubMed
  27. Onal S, Timur S, Okutucu B, Zihnioglu F. Inhibition of alphaglucosidase by aqueous extracts of some potent antidiabetic medicinal herbs. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2005;35:29-36.

See these in context on the Dandelion monograph →

Sage 27 references
  1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  2. Todorov S, Philianos S, Petkov V, et al. Experimental pharmacological study of three species from genus Salvia. Acta Physiol Pharmacol (Bulg) 1984;10:13-20.
  3. Perry NS, Bollen C, Perry EK, Ballard C. Salvia for dementia therapy: review of pharmacological activity and pilot tolerability clinical trial. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2003;75:651-9.. PubMed
  4. Saller R, Buechi S, Meyrat R, Schmidhauser C. Combined herbal preparation for topical treatment of Herpes labialis. Forsch Komplementarmed Klass Naturheilkd 2001;8:373-82. PubMed
  5. Akhondzadeh S, Noroozian M, Mohammadi M, et al. Salvia officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a double blind, randomized and placebo-controlled trial. J Clin Pharm Ther 2003;28:53-9.
  6. Perry NB, Anderson RE, Brennan NJ, et al. Essential oils from dalmatian sage (Salvia officinalis l.): variations among individuals, plant parts, seasons, and sites. J Agric Food Chem 1999;47:2048-54..
  7. Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Hana J, et al. In vitro inhibition of human cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism of marker substrates by natural products. Phytomedicine 2003;10:334-42.. PubMed
  8. Burkhard PR, Burkhardt K, Haenggeli CA, Landis T. Plant-induced seizures: reappearance of an old problem. J Neurol 1999;246:667-70. PubMed
  9. Bommer S, Klein P, Suter A. First time proof of sage's tolerability and efficacy in menopausal women with hot flushes. Adv Ther 2011;28:490-500. PubMed
  10. Hellum BH, Nilsen OG. The in vitro inhibitory potential of trade herbal products on human CYP2D6-mediated metabolism and the influence of ethanol. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2007 Nov;101:350-8.
  11. 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.
  12. Perry, N. S., Houghton, P. J., Theobald, A., Jenner, P., and Perry, E. K. In-vitro inhibition of human erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase by salvia lavandulaefolia essential oil and constituent terpenes. J Pharm Pharmacol 2000;52(7):895-902.
  13. Perry, N. S., Houghton, P. J., Sampson, J., Theobald, A. E., Hart, S., Lis-Balchin, M., Hoult, J. R., Evans, P., Jenner, P., Milligan, S., and Perry, E. K. In-vitro activity of S. lavandulaefolia (Spanish sage) relevant to treatment of Alzheimer's diseas
  14. Futrell, J. M. and Rietschel, R. L. Spice allergy evaluated by results of patch tests. Cutis 1993;52(5):288-290.
  15. Kavvadias, D., Monschein, V., Sand, P., Riederer, P., and Schreier, P. Constituents of sage (Salvia officinalis) with in vitro affinity to human brain benzodiazepine receptor. Planta Med. 2003;69(2):113-117.
  16. Savelev, S. U., Okello, E. J., and Perry, E. K. Butyryl- and acetyl-cholinesterase inhibitory activities in essential oils of Salvia species and their constituents. Phytother Res 2004;18(4):315-324.
  17. Kennedy, D. O., Pace, S., Haskell, C., Okello, E. J., Milne, A., and Scholey, A. B. Effects of cholinesterase inhibiting sage (Salvia officinalis) on mood, anxiety and performance on a psychological stressor battery. Neuropsychopharmacology 2006;31(4):84 PubMed
  18. Hubbert, M., Sievers, H., Lehnfeld, R., and Kehrl, W. Efficacy and tolerability of a spray with Salvia officinalis in the treatment of acute pharyngitis - a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with adaptive design and interim analysis. Eur
  19. Lima, C. F., Fernandes-Ferreira, M., and Pereira-Wilson, C. Drinking of Salvia officinalis tea increases CCl(4)-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Food Chem.Toxicol. 2007;45(3):456-464.
  20. Hellum, B. H. and Nilsen, O. G. In vitro inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolism and P-glycoprotein-mediated transport by trade herbal products. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2008;102(5):466-475.
  21. Mayer, E., Gescheidt-Shoshany, H., and Weltfriend, S. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by Salvia officinalis extract. Contact Dermatitis 2011;64(4):237-238. PubMed
  22. Halicioglu, O., Astarcioglu, G., Yaprak, I., and Aydinlioglu, H. Toxicity of Salvia officinalis in a newborn and a child: an alarming report. Pediatr.Neurol. 2011;45(4):259-260. PubMed
  23. Sertoli, A., Fabbri, P., Campolmi, P., and Panconesi, E. Allergic contact dermatitis to Salvia Officinalis, Inula Viscosa and Conyza Bonariensis. Contact Dermatitis 1978;4(5):314-315.
  24. Vandecasteele K, Ost P, Oosterlinck W, et al. Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Salvia officinalis in controlling hot flashes in prostate cancer patients treated with androgen deprivation. Phytother Res. 2012;26(2):208-13.
  25. Kianbakht S, Dabaghian FH. Improved glycemic control and lipid profile in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients consuming Salvia officinalis L. leaf extract: a randomized placebo. Controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Med. 2013;21(5):441-6. PubMed
  26. Amini L, Mojab F, Jahanfar S, Sepidarkish M, Raoofi Z, Maleki-Hajiagha A. Efficacy of Salvia officinalis extract on the prevention of insulin resistance in euglycemic patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: A double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical tr
  27. Behradmanesh S, Derees F, Rafieian-Kopaei M. Effect of Salvia officinalis on diabetic patients. J Renal Inj Prev. 2013;2(2):51-4.

See these in context on the Sage monograph →

St. John's Wort 152 references
  1. Miller LG. Herbal Medicinals: Selected clinical considerations focusing on known or potential drug-herb interactions. Arch Intern Med 1998;158:2200-11.
  2. Gulick RM, McAuliffe V, Holden-Wiltse J, et al. Phase I studies of hypericin, the active compound in St. John's Wort, as an antiretroviral agent in HIV-infected adults. AIDS Clinical Trials Group Protocols 150 and 258. Ann Intern Med 1999;130:510-4. PubMed
  3. O'Breasail AM, Argouarch S. Hypomania and St John's wort. Can J Psychiatry 1998;43:746-7.
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Red Clover 24 references
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  5. Food and Drug Administration. Food labeling: health claims: oats and coronary heart disease. Fed Regist 1996;61:296-313.
  6. Foulke J. FDA Allows Whole Oat Foods To Make Health Claim on Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease. FDA Talk Paper. 1997. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/ANS00782.html.
  7. Chandalia M, Garg A, Lutjohann D, et al. Beneficial effects of high dietary fiber intake in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. N Engl J Med 2000;342:1392-8. PubMed
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  9. De Paz Arranz S, Perez Montero A, Remon LZ, Molero MI. Allergic contact urticaria to oatmeal. Allergy 2002;57:1215. . PubMed
  10. Delgado G, Kleber ME, Krämer BK, et al. Dietary intervention with oatmeal in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus - A crossover study. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. 2019;127(9):623-629. PubMed
  11. Sobhan M, Hojati M, Vafaie SY, Ahmadimoghaddam D, Mohammadi Y, Mehrpooya M. The efficacy of colloidal oatmeal cream 1% as add-on therapy in the management of chronic irritant hand eczema: A double-blind study. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2020;13:241-25
  12. Hou Q, Li Y, Li L, Cheng G, Sun X, Li S, Tian H. The metabolic effects of oats intake in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. 2015;7(12):10369-87. PubMed
  13. González-Afonso M, Cañas JA, Sastre B, et al. A Case of Anaphylaxis After Ingestion of Oats: Research Into New Allergens. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 2022;32(6):506-508. PubMed

See these in context on the Oats 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.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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