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Herb & Medicine Checker

Herbs and your medicines.

Some herbs and formulas change how a medicine works. Check the ones you take or have been offered against your medicines, then talk it over with us before your next visit.

The full list

Every herb and formula

Open a name to see the medicines it may interact with. A formula includes what its herbs interact with.

Formulas

Ba Zhen Tang 八珍湯Eight Treasure DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Ba Zheng San 八正散Eight-Herb Powder for RectificationAsk before combining

Contains Mu Tong 木通, Hua Shi 滑石, Che Qian Zi 車前子, Qu Mai 瞿麥, Bian Xu 萹蓄, Zhi Zi 梔子, Da Huang 大黃, Deng Xin Cao 燈心草, Gan Cao 甘草

Bai He Gu Jin Tang 百合固金湯Lily Bulb Decoction to Preserve the MetalAsk before combining

Contains Bai He 百合, Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Xuan Shen 玄參, Chuan Bei Mu 川貝母, Jie Geng 桔梗, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Gan Cao 甘草

Bai Hu Tang 白虎湯White Tiger DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Shi Gao 石膏, Zhi Mu 知母, Jing Mi 粳米, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Shi Gao
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Diabetes medicines through Zhi Mu
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Zhi Mu

    Food and drink

Bai Tou Weng Tang 白頭翁湯Pulsatilla DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Bai Tou Weng 白頭翁, Huang Bai 黃柏, Huang Lian 黃連, Qin Pi 秦皮

Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang 半夏白朮天麻湯Pinellia, White Atractylodes and Gastrodia DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ban Xia 半夏, Tian Ma 天麻, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Ju Hong 橘紅, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Ban Xia Hou Po Tang 半夏厚朴湯Pinellia and Magnolia Bark DecoctionUsually fine, with care

Contains Ban Xia 半夏, Hou Po 厚朴, Fu Ling 茯苓, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Zi Su Ye 紫蘇葉

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Calming and sleep supplements through Hou Po
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang 半夏瀉心湯Pinellia Decoction to Drain the EpigastriumAsk before combining

Contains Ban Xia 半夏, Huang Qin 黃芩, Gan Jiang 乾薑, Ren Shen 人參, Gan Cao 甘草, Huang Lian 黃連, Da Zao 大棗

Bao He Wan 保和丸Preserve Harmony PillUsually fine, with care

Contains Shan Zha 山楂, Shen Qu 神曲, Lai Fu Zi 萊菔子, Ban Xia 半夏, Chen Pi 陳皮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Lian Qiao 連翹

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

    • Vinegar and sour foods through Fu Ling
Bei Mu Gua Lou San 貝母瓜蔞散Fritillaria and Trichosanthes Fruit PowderUsually fine, with care

Contains Chuan Bei Mu 川貝母, Gua Lou 瓜蔞, Tian Hua Fen 天花粉, Fu Ling 茯苓, Ju Hong 橘紅, Jie Geng 桔梗

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

    • Vinegar and sour foods through Fu Ling
Bu Fei Tang 補肺湯Tonify the Lungs DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Huang Qi 黃芪, Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Wu Wei Zi 五味子, Zi Wan 紫菀, Sang Bai Pi 桑白皮

Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang 補陽還五湯Tonify the Yang to Restore Five DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Huang Qi 黃芪, Dang Gui 當歸, Chi Shao 赤芍, Di Long 地龍, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Tao Ren 桃仁, Hong Hua 紅花

Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang 補中益氣湯Tonify the Middle and Augment the QiAsk before combining

Contains Huang Qi 黃芪, Ren Shen 人參, Bai Zhu 白朮, Gan Cao 甘草, Dang Gui 當歸, Chen Pi 陳皮, Sheng Ma 升麻, Chai Hu 柴胡

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
    • Imatinib through Ren Shen
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ren Shen
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Chai Hu
    • Quetiapine through Chai Hu
    • Warfarin through Ren Shen

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) through Chen Pi
    • Antiplatelet medicines through Dang Gui
    • Clozapine through Dang Gui
    • Diabetes medicines through Ren Shen
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Dang Gui
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Midazolam through Ren Shen
    • Raltegravir through Ren Shen
    • Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) through Dang Gui
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao
    • Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines through Huang Qi

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Dang Gui

    Food and drink

Cang Er Zi San 蒼耳子散Xanthium PowderAsk before combining

Contains Cang Er Zi 蒼耳子, Xin Yi 辛夷, Bai Zhi 白芷, Bo He 薄荷

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Cang Er Zi

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Bai Zhi

    Food and drink

    • Turtle meat through Bo He
Chai Ge Jie Ji Tang 柴葛解肌湯Bupleurum and Kudzu Decoction to Release the Muscle LayerAsk before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Ge Gen 葛根, Gan Cao 甘草, Huang Qin 黃芩, Qiang Huo 羌活, Bai Zhi 白芷, Bai Shao 白芍, Jie Geng 桔梗, Shi Gao 石膏, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Ge Gen
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Shi Gao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Chai Hu
    • Methotrexate through Ge Gen
    • Quetiapine through Chai Hu

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Chai Hu Gui Zhi Tang 柴胡桂枝湯Bupleurum and Cinnamon Twig DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Huang Qin 黃芩, Ren Shen 人參, Bai Shao 白芍, Ban Xia 半夏, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang 柴胡加龍骨牡蠣湯Bupleurum plus Dragon Bone and Oyster Shell DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Long Gu 龍骨, Mu Li 牡蠣, Huang Qin 黃芩, Ren Shen 人參, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Fu Ling 茯苓, Ban Xia 半夏, Da Huang 大黃, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Chai Hu Shu Gan San 柴胡疏肝散Bupleurum Powder to Spread the LiverAsk before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Chen Pi 陳皮, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Xiang Fu 香附, Zhi Ke 枳殼, Bai Shao 白芍, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Ke
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Chai Hu
    • Quetiapine through Chai Hu

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) through Chen Pi
    • Antiplatelet medicines through Chuan Xiong
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Chuan Xiong
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Zhi Ke

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San 川芎茶調散Ligusticum Chuanxiong Powder to be Taken with Green TeaAvoid together

Contains Chuan Xiong 川芎, Bai Zhi 白芷, Qiang Huo 羌活, Xi Xin 細辛, Jing Jie 荊芥, Fang Feng 防風, Bo He 薄荷, Gan Cao 甘草, Cha Ye 茶葉

  • Avoid together with
  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Iron supplements through Cha Ye
    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Bai Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Chuan Xiong

    Food and drink

Da Bu Yin Wan 大補陰丸Great Tonify the Yin PillAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Gui Ban 龜板, Huang Bai 黃柏, Zhi Mu 知母, Zhu Ji Sui 豬脊髓, Feng Mi 蜂蜜

Da Chai Hu Tang 大柴胡湯Major Bupleurum DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Huang Qin 黃芩, Bai Shao 白芍, Ban Xia 半夏, Zhi Shi 枳實, Da Huang 大黃, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Digoxin through Da Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Shi
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Chai Hu
    • Quetiapine through Chai Hu

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

Da Cheng Qi Tang 大承氣湯Major Order the Qi DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Da Huang 大黃, Mang Xiao 芒硝, Zhi Shi 枳實, Hou Po 厚朴

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Calming and sleep supplements through Hou Po

    Food and drink

Da Huang Mu Dan Tang 大黃牡丹湯Rhubarb and Moutan DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Da Huang 大黃, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Tao Ren 桃仁, Dong Gua Zi 冬瓜子, Mang Xiao 芒硝

Da Jian Zhong Tang 大建中湯Major Construct the Middle DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Hua Jiao 花椒, Gan Jiang 乾薑, Ren Shen 人參, Yi Tang 飴糖

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Gan Jiang
Da Qing Long Tang 大青龍湯Major Bluegreen Dragon DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Ma Huang 麻黃, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Xing Ren 杏仁, Shi Gao 石膏, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Ma Huang
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Ma Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ma Huang
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Ma Huang
  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Shi Gao
    • Theophylline through Ma Huang
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Dan Shen Yin 丹參飲Salvia DrinkAvoid together

Contains Dan Shen 丹參, Tan Xiang 檀香, Sha Ren 砂仁

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dan Shen
  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that slow clotting through Dan Shen
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang 當歸補血湯Tangkuei Decoction to Tonify the BloodAsk before combining

Contains Huang Qi 黃芪, Dang Gui 當歸

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Antiplatelet medicines through Dang Gui
    • Clozapine through Dang Gui
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Dang Gui
    • Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) through Dang Gui
    • Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines through Huang Qi

    Supplements

    • Supplements that slow clotting through Dang Gui
Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang 當歸六黃湯Tangkuei and Six-Yellow DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Dang Gui 當歸, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Huang Qin 黃芩, Huang Bai 黃柏, Huang Lian 黃連, Huang Qi 黃芪

Dang Gui Shao Yao San 當歸芍藥散Tangkuei and Peony PowderAsk before combining

Contains Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Fu Ling 茯苓, Bai Zhu 白朮, Ze Xie 澤瀉, Chuan Xiong 川芎

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
    • Lithium through Ze Xie
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Dang Gui Si Ni Tang 當歸四逆湯Tangkuei Decoction for Frigid ExtremitiesAsk before combining

Contains Dang Gui 當歸, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Bai Shao 白芍, Xi Xin 細辛, Mu Tong 木通, Da Zao 大棗, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Antiplatelet medicines through Dang Gui
    • Clozapine through Dang Gui
    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Dang Gui
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the kidneys through Xi Xin
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) through Dang Gui
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Dang Gui

    Food and drink

Dang Gui Yin Zi 當歸飲子Tangkuei DrinkAsk before combining

Contains Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Ji Li 蒺藜, Fang Feng 防風, Jing Jie 荊芥, He Shou Wu 何首烏, Huang Qi 黃芪, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑

Dao Chi San 導赤散Guide Out the Red PowderAsk before combining

Contains Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Mu Tong 木通, Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉, Gan Cao 甘草

Ding Chuan Tang 定喘湯Arrest Wheezing DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Bai Guo 白果, Ma Huang 麻黃, Zi Su Zi 紫蘇子, Kuan Dong Hua 款冬花, Xing Ren 杏仁, Sang Bai Pi 桑白皮, Huang Qin 黃芩, Ban Xia 半夏, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Ma Huang
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Ma Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ma Huang
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Ma Huang
  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

Ding Zhi Wan 定志丸Settle the Emotions PillAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Fu Ling 茯苓, Shi Chang Pu 石菖蒲, Yuan Zhi 遠志

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen

    Food and drink

    • Vinegar and sour foods through Fu Ling
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang 獨活寄生湯Angelica Pubescens and Taxillus DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Du Huo 獨活, Sang Ji Sheng 桑寄生, Du Zhong 杜仲, Niu Xi 牛膝, Xi Xin 細辛, Qin Jiao 秦艽, Fu Ling 茯苓, Rou Gui 肉桂, Fang Feng 防風, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Ren Shen 人參, Gan Cao 甘草, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃

Du Qi Wan 都氣丸Capital Qi Pill, Qi Wei Du Qi Wan, 七味都氣丸Ask before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Shan Yao 山藥, Ze Xie 澤瀉, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Wu Wei Zi 五味子

Er Chen Tang 二陳湯Two-Aged (Herb) DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ban Xia 半夏, Chen Pi 陳皮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Wu Mei 烏梅

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Er Miao San 二妙散Two-Marvel PowderUsually fine, with care

Contains Huang Bai 黃柏, Cang Zhu 蒼朮

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Huang Bai

    Food and drink

Er Xian Tang 二仙湯Two Immortals DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Xian Mao 仙茅, Yin Yang Huo 淫羊藿, Ba Ji Tian 巴戟天, Dang Gui 當歸, Huang Bai 黃柏, Zhi Mu 知母

Er Zhi Wan 二至丸Two-Ultimate PillNothing on our list

Contains Nu Zhen Zi 女貞子, Han Lian Cao 旱蓮草

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Fang Feng Tong Sheng San 防風通聖散Saposhnikovia Powder that Sagely UnblocksAvoid together

Contains Fang Feng 防風, Jing Jie 荊芥, Lian Qiao 連翹, Ma Huang 麻黃, Bo He 薄荷, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Bai Zhu 白朮, Zhi Zi 梔子, Da Huang 大黃, Mang Xiao 芒硝, Shi Gao 石膏, Huang Qin 黃芩, Jie Geng 桔梗, Hua Shi 滑石, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑

Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang 防己黃芪湯Stephania and Astragalus DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Fang Ji 防己, Huang Qi 黃芪, Bai Zhu 白朮, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood pressure medicines through Fang Ji
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao
    • Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines through Huang Qi

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Fu Yuan Huo Xue Tang 復元活血湯Revive Health by Invigorating the Blood DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Tian Hua Fen 天花粉, Dang Gui 當歸, Hong Hua 紅花, Gan Cao 甘草, Chuan Shan Jia 穿山甲, Da Huang 大黃, Tao Ren 桃仁

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Antiplatelet medicines through Dang Gui
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Tao Ren
    • Clozapine through Dang Gui
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Da Huang
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Dang Gui
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) through Dang Gui
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Fu Zi Li Zhong Wan 附子理中丸Prepared Aconite Pill to Regulate the MiddleAsk before combining

Contains Fu Zi 附子, Ren Shen 人參, Gan Jiang 乾薑, Bai Zhu 白朮, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Gan Jiang

    Food and drink

Gan Mai Da Zao Tang 甘麥大棗湯Licorice, Wheat and Jujube DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Gan Cao 甘草, Xiao Mai 小麥, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Ge Gen Huang Qin Huang Lian Tang 葛根黃芩黃連湯Kudzu, Scutellaria and Coptis DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ge Gen 葛根, Huang Qin 黃芩, Huang Lian 黃連, Gan Cao 甘草

Ge Gen Tang 葛根湯Kudzu DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Ge Gen 葛根, Ma Huang 麻黃, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Bai Shao 白芍, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Ma Huang
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Ma Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ma Huang
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Ma Huang
  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Ge Gen
    • Methotrexate through Ge Gen
    • Theophylline through Ma Huang
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Diabetes medicines through Ge Gen, Gui Zhi
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Ge Gen
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang 膈下逐瘀湯Drive Out Blood Stasis Below the Diaphragm DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Wu Ling Zhi 五靈脂, Dang Gui 當歸, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Tao Ren 桃仁, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Chi Shao 赤芍, Wu Yao 烏藥, Yan Hu Suo 延胡索, Gan Cao 甘草, Xiang Fu 香附, Hong Hua 紅花, Zhi Ke 枳殼

Gu Jing Wan 固經丸Stabilize the Menses PillAsk before combining

Contains Gui Ban 龜板, Bai Shao 白芍, Huang Qin 黃芩, Huang Bai 黃柏, Chun Pi 椿皮, Xiang Fu 香附

  • Ask before combining with
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Gui Ban
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Huang Bai
Gua Lou Xie Bai Ban Xia Tang 瓜蔞薤白半夏湯Trichosanthes Fruit, Chinese Chive and Pinellia DecoctionUsually fine, with care

Contains Gua Lou 瓜蔞, Xie Bai 薤白, Ban Xia 半夏

  • Usually fine, but take care with
Gui Pi Tang 歸脾湯Restore the Spleen DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Shen 茯神, Huang Qi 黃芪, Long Yan Rou 龍眼肉, Suan Zao Ren 酸棗仁, Ren Shen 人參, Mu Xiang 木香, Gan Cao 甘草, Dang Gui 當歸, Yuan Zhi 遠志, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan 桂枝茯苓丸Cinnamon Twig and Poria PillUsually fine, with care

Contains Gui Zhi 桂枝, Fu Ling 茯苓, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Tao Ren 桃仁, Chi Shao 赤芍

Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang 桂枝加龍骨牡蠣湯Cinnamon Twig Decoction plus Dragon Bone and Oyster ShellAsk before combining

Contains Gui Zhi 桂枝, Bai Shao 白芍, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗, Gan Cao 甘草, Long Gu 龍骨, Mu Li 牡蠣

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Long Gu, Mu Li
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang 桂枝芍藥知母湯Cinnamon Twig, Peony and Anemarrhena DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Gui Zhi 桂枝, Bai Shao 白芍, Zhi Mu 知母, Ma Huang 麻黃, Fu Zi 附子, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fang Feng 防風, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Ma Huang
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Ma Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ma Huang
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Ma Huang
  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Gui Zhi Tang 桂枝湯Cinnamon Twig DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Gui Zhi 桂枝, Bai Shao 白芍, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Huai Hua San 槐花散Sophora Japonica Flower PowderAsk before combining

Contains Huai Hua 槐花, Ce Bai Ye 側柏葉, Jing Jie 荊芥, Zhi Ke 枳殼

  • Ask before combining with
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Ke
  • Usually fine, but take care with
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Zhi Ke
Huang Lian E Jiao Tang 黃連阿膠湯Coptis and Ass-Hide Gelatin DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Huang Lian 黃連, Huang Qin 黃芩, Bai Shao 白芍, E Jiao 阿膠, Ji Zi Huang 雞子黃

Huang Lian Jie Du Tang 黃連解毒湯Coptis Decoction to Relieve ToxicityAsk before combining

Contains Huang Lian 黃連, Huang Qin 黃芩, Huang Bai 黃柏, Zhi Zi 梔子

Huang Qi Jian Zhong Tang 黃芪建中湯Astragalus Decoction to Construct the MiddleAsk before combining

Contains Huang Qi 黃芪, Yi Tang 飴糖, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Bai Shao 白芍, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao
    • Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines through Huang Qi

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San 藿香正氣散Patchouli/Agastache Powder to Rectify the QiAsk before combining

Contains Huo Xiang 藿香, Zi Su Ye 紫蘇葉, Bai Zhi 白芷, Da Fu Pi 大腹皮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Bai Zhu 白朮, Ban Xia 半夏, Chen Pi 陳皮, Hou Po 厚朴, Jie Geng 桔梗, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Calming and sleep supplements through Hou Po
    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Bai Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Ji Chuan Jian 濟川煎Benefit the River DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Dang Gui 當歸, Niu Xi 牛膝, Rou Cong Rong 肉蓯蓉, Ze Xie 澤瀉, Sheng Ma 升麻, Zhi Ke 枳殼

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
    • Lithium through Ze Xie
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Ke
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Antiplatelet medicines through Dang Gui
    • Clozapine through Dang Gui
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Dang Gui
    • Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) through Dang Gui
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Zhi Ke

    Supplements

    • Supplements that slow clotting through Dang Gui
Jia Jian Wei Rui Tang 加減葳蕤湯Modified Polygonatum Odoratum DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Yu Zhu 玉竹, Cong Bai 蔥白, Jie Geng 桔梗, Bai Wei 白薇, Dan Dou Chi 淡豆豉, Bo He 薄荷, Gan Cao 甘草, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Felodipine through Bo He
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Jia Wei Xiao Yao San 加味逍遙散Augmented Rambling Powder, Dan Zhi Xiao Yao San, 丹梔逍遙散Ask before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Bo He 薄荷, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Zhi Zi 梔子

Jiao Ai Tang 膠艾湯Ass-Hide Gelatin and Mugwort DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains E Jiao 阿膠, Ai Ye 艾葉, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Gan Cao 甘草

Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan 金匱腎氣丸Shen Qi Wan, Kidney Qi Pill from the Golden CabinetAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Shan Yao 山藥, Ze Xie 澤瀉, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Fu Zi 附子, Gui Zhi 桂枝

Jin Ling Zi San 金鈴子散Melia Toosendan PowderUsually fine, with care

Contains Chuan Lian Zi 川楝子, Yan Hu Suo 延胡索

Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan 金鎖固精丸Metal Lock Pill to Stabilize the EssenceAsk before combining

Contains Sha Yuan Zi 沙苑子, Qian Shi 芡實, Lian Xu 蓮鬚, Long Gu 龍骨, Mu Li 牡蠣, Lian Zi 蓮子

  • Ask before combining with
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Long Gu, Mu Li
Jing Fang Bai Du San 荊防敗毒散Schizonepeta and Saposhnikovia Powder to Overcome Pathogenic InfluencesAsk before combining

Contains Jing Jie 荊芥, Fang Feng 防風, Qiang Huo 羌活, Du Huo 獨活, Chai Hu 柴胡, Qian Hu 前胡, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Zhi Ke 枳殼, Fu Ling 茯苓, Jie Geng 桔梗, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Ke
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Chai Hu
    • Quetiapine through Chai Hu

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang 橘皮竹茹湯Tangerine Peel and Bamboo Shavings DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Chen Pi 陳皮, Zhu Ru 竹茹, Ren Shen 人參, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Juan Bi Tang 蠲痺湯Remove Painful Obstruction DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Qiang Huo 羌活, Du Huo 獨活, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Qin Jiao 秦艽, Dang Gui 當歸, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Hai Feng Teng 海風藤, Sang Zhi 桑枝, Ru Xiang 乳香, Mu Xiang 木香, Gan Cao 甘草

Li Zhong Wan 理中丸Regulate the Middle PillAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Gan Jiang 乾薑, Bai Zhu 白朮, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Gan Jiang

    Food and drink

Liang Fu Wan 良附丸Galangal and Cyperus PillNothing on our list

Contains Gao Liang Jiang 高良薑, Xiang Fu 香附

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Liang Ge San 涼膈散Cool the Diaphragm PowderAsk before combining

Contains Da Huang 大黃, Mang Xiao 芒硝, Gan Cao 甘草, Zhi Zi 梔子, Bo He 薄荷, Huang Qin 黃芩, Lian Qiao 連翹, Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉, Feng Mi 蜂蜜

Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang 苓桂朮甘湯Poria, Cinnamon Twig, White Atractylodes and Licorice DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Fu Ling 茯苓, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Bai Zhu 白朮, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi

    Food and drink

Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang 羚角鉤藤湯Ling Jiao Gou Teng Yin, Antelope Horn and Uncaria DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ling Yang Jiao 羚羊角, Gou Teng 鉤藤, Sang Ye 桑葉, Ju Hua 菊花, Chuan Bei Mu 川貝母, Zhu Ru 竹茹, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Bai Shao 白芍, Fu Shen 茯神, Gan Cao 甘草

Liu Jun Zi Tang 六君子湯Six Gentlemen DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Chen Pi 陳皮, Ban Xia 半夏, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan 六味地黃丸Six-Ingredient Pill with RehmanniaAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Shan Yao 山藥, Ze Xie 澤瀉, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Fu Ling 茯苓

Liu Yi San 六一散Six-to-One PowderAsk before combining

Contains Hua Shi 滑石, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang 龍膽瀉肝湯Gentian Decoction to Drain the LiverAsk before combining

Contains Long Dan Cao 龍膽草, Huang Qin 黃芩, Zhi Zi 梔子, Ze Xie 澤瀉, Mu Tong 木通, Che Qian Zi 車前子, Dang Gui 當歸, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Chai Hu 柴胡, Gan Cao 甘草

Ma Huang Tang 麻黃湯Ephedra DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Ma Huang 麻黃, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Xing Ren 杏仁, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Ma Huang
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Ma Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ma Huang
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Ma Huang
  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi

    Food and drink

Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang 麻杏石甘湯Ephedra, Apricot Kernel, Gypsum and Licorice DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Ma Huang 麻黃, Xing Ren 杏仁, Shi Gao 石膏, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Ma Huang
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Ma Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ma Huang
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Ma Huang
  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Shi Gao
    • Theophylline through Ma Huang
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Ma Zi Ren Wan 麻子仁丸Hemp Seed PillAsk before combining

Contains Huo Ma Ren 火麻仁, Bai Shao 白芍, Zhi Shi 枳實, Da Huang 大黃, Hou Po 厚朴, Xing Ren 杏仁

  • Ask before combining with
    • Digoxin through Da Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Shi
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Diuretics (water pills) through Da Huang
    • Felodipine through Zhi Shi
    • Sedatives and sleep medicines through Hou Po
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Zhi Shi

    Supplements

    • Calming and sleep supplements through Hou Po

    Food and drink

Mai Men Dong Tang 麥門冬湯Ophiopogon DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Ban Xia 半夏, Ren Shen 人參, Jing Mi 粳米, Da Zao 大棗, Gan Cao 甘草

Mu Li San 牡蠣散Oyster Shell PowderAsk before combining

Contains Mu Li 牡蠣, Huang Qi 黃芪, Ma Huang Gen 麻黃根, Fu Xiao Mai 浮小麥

  • Ask before combining with
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Mu Li
  • Usually fine, but take care with
    • Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines through Huang Qi
Nuan Gan Jian 暖肝煎Warm the Liver DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Dang Gui 當歸, Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子, Xiao Hui Xiang 小茴香, Rou Gui 肉桂, Wu Yao 烏藥, Chen Xiang 沉香, Fu Ling 茯苓, Sheng Jiang 生薑

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
    • Warfarin through Gou Qi Zi
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Ping Wei San 平胃散Calm the Stomach PowderAsk before combining

Contains Cang Zhu 蒼朮, Hou Po 厚朴, Chen Pi 陳皮, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) through Chen Pi
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Sedatives and sleep medicines through Hou Po
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Calming and sleep supplements through Hou Po
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin 普濟消毒飲Universal Benefit Decoction to Eliminate ToxinAsk before combining

Contains Huang Qin 黃芩, Huang Lian 黃連, Chen Pi 陳皮, Gan Cao 甘草, Xuan Shen 玄參, Chai Hu 柴胡, Jie Geng 桔梗, Lian Qiao 連翹, Ban Lan Gen 板藍根, Ma Bo 馬勃, Niu Bang Zi 牛蒡子, Bo He 薄荷, Jiang Can 僵蠶, Sheng Ma 升麻

Qi Ju Di Huang Wan 杞菊地黃丸Lycium Fruit, Chrysanthemum and Rehmannia PillAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Shan Yao 山藥, Ze Xie 澤瀉, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子, Ju Hua 菊花

Qian Zheng San 牽正散Lead to Symmetry PowderNothing on our list

Contains Bai Fu Zi 白附子, Jiang Can 僵蠶, Quan Xie 全蠍

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang 羌活勝濕湯Notopterygium Decoction to Overcome DampnessAsk before combining

Contains Qiang Huo 羌活, Du Huo 獨活, Gao Ben 藁本, Fang Feng 防風, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Man Jing Zi 蔓荊子, Gan Cao 甘草

Qing Gu San 清骨散Cool the Bones PowderAsk before combining

Contains Yin Chai Hu 銀柴胡, Hu Huang Lian 胡黃連, Qin Jiao 秦艽, Bie Jia 鱉甲, Di Gu Pi 地骨皮, Qing Hao 青蒿, Zhi Mu 知母, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Bie Jia
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) through Qing Hao
    • Diabetes medicines through Zhi Mu
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Zhi Mu

    Food and drink

Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang 青蒿鱉甲湯Sweet Wormwood and Soft-Shelled Turtle Shell DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Qing Hao 青蒿, Bie Jia 鱉甲, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Zhi Mu 知母, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮

Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan 清氣化痰丸Clear the Qi and Transform Phlegm PillAsk before combining

Contains Dan Nan Xing 膽南星, Gua Lou Ren 瓜蔞仁, Huang Qin 黃芩, Chen Pi 陳皮, Xing Ren 杏仁, Zhi Shi 枳實, Fu Ling 茯苓, Ban Xia 半夏

  • Ask before combining with
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Shi
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

    • Vinegar and sour foods through Fu Ling
Qing Wei San 清胃散Clear the Stomach PowderAsk before combining

Contains Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Dang Gui 當歸, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Huang Lian 黃連, Sheng Ma 升麻

Qing Wen Bai Du Yin 清瘟敗毒飲Clear Epidemics and Overcome Toxicity DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Shi Gao 石膏, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Shui Niu Jiao 水牛角, Huang Lian 黃連, Zhi Zi 梔子, Jie Geng 桔梗, Huang Qin 黃芩, Zhi Mu 知母, Chi Shao 赤芍, Xuan Shen 玄參, Lian Qiao 連翹, Gan Cao 甘草, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉

Qing Ying Tang 清營湯Clear the Nutritive Level DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Shui Niu Jiao 水牛角, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Xuan Shen 玄參, Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Dan Shen 丹參, Huang Lian 黃連, Jin Yin Hua 金銀花, Lian Qiao 連翹

Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang 清燥救肺湯Eliminate Dryness and Rescue the Lungs DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Sang Ye 桑葉, Shi Gao 石膏, Ren Shen 人參, Hu Ma Ren 胡麻仁, E Jiao 阿膠, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Xing Ren 杏仁, Pi Pa Ye 枇杷葉, Gan Cao 甘草

Ren Shen Bai Du San 人參敗毒散Ginseng Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences, Bai Du San, 敗毒散Ask before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Qiang Huo 羌活, Du Huo 獨活, Chai Hu 柴胡, Qian Hu 前胡, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Zhi Ke 枳殼, Jie Geng 桔梗, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Bo He 薄荷

Run Chang Wan 潤腸丸Moisten the Intestines PillAsk before combining

Contains Dang Gui 當歸, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Huo Ma Ren 火麻仁, Tao Ren 桃仁, Zhi Ke 枳殼

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Ke
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Antiplatelet medicines through Dang Gui
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Tao Ren
    • Clozapine through Dang Gui
    • Diabetes medicines through Sheng Di Huang
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Dang Gui
    • Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) through Dang Gui
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Zhi Ke

    Supplements

    Food and drink

San Ren Tang 三仁湯Three-Nut DecoctionUsually fine, with care

Contains Xing Ren 杏仁, Bai Dou Kou 白豆蔻, Yi Yi Ren 薏苡仁, Hou Po 厚朴, Ban Xia 半夏, Tong Cao 通草, Hua Shi 滑石, Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Calming and sleep supplements through Hou Po

    Food and drink

San Zi Yang Qin Tang 三子養親湯Three-Seed Decoction to Nourish One’s ParentsNothing on our list

Contains Zi Su Zi 紫蘇子, Bai Jie Zi 白芥子, Lai Fu Zi 萊菔子

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sang Ju Yin 桑菊飲Mulberry Leaf and Chrysanthemum DrinkAsk before combining

Contains Sang Ye 桑葉, Ju Hua 菊花, Xing Ren 杏仁, Lian Qiao 連翹, Bo He 薄荷, Jie Geng 桔梗, Gan Cao 甘草, Lu Gen 蘆根

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Sang Ye

    Food and drink

Sang Piao Xiao San 桑螵蛸散Mantis Egg-Case PowderAsk before combining

Contains Sang Piao Xiao 桑螵蛸, Yuan Zhi 遠志, Shi Chang Pu 石菖蒲, Long Gu 龍骨, Ren Shen 人參, Fu Shen 茯神, Dang Gui 當歸, Gui Ban 龜板

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
    • Imatinib through Ren Shen
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ren Shen
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Long Gu, Gui Ban
    • Warfarin through Ren Shen
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Dang Gui
Sang Xing Tang 桑杏湯Mulberry Leaf and Apricot Kernel DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Sang Ye 桑葉, Xing Ren 杏仁, Bei Sha Shen 北沙參, Zhe Bei Mu 浙貝母, Dan Dou Chi 淡豆豉, Zhi Zi 梔子, Li Pi 梨皮

  • Ask before combining with
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Dan Dou Chi
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Diabetes medicines through Sang Ye
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Zhi Zi

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Sang Ye

    Food and drink

Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang 沙參麥冬湯Sha Shen Mai Men Dong Tang, Glehnia and Ophiopogon DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Bei Sha Shen 北沙參, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Yu Zhu 玉竹, Sang Ye 桑葉, Tian Hua Fen 天花粉, Bai Bian Dou 白扁豆, Gan Cao 甘草

Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang 少腹逐瘀湯Drive Out Blood Stasis in the Lower Abdomen DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Xiao Hui Xiang 小茴香, Gan Jiang 乾薑, Yan Hu Suo 延胡索, Mo Yao 沒藥, Dang Gui 當歸, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Rou Gui 肉桂, Chi Shao 赤芍, Pu Huang 蒲黃, Wu Ling Zhi 五靈脂

Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang 芍藥甘草湯Peony and Licorice DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Bai Shao 白芍, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Shao Yao Tang 芍藥湯Peony DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Bai Shao 白芍, Dang Gui 當歸, Huang Lian 黃連, Bing Lang 檳榔, Mu Xiang 木香, Gan Cao 甘草, Da Huang 大黃, Huang Qin 黃芩, Rou Gui 肉桂

Shen Fu Tang 參附湯Ginseng and Prepared Aconite DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Fu Zi 附子

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
Shen Ling Bai Zhu San 參苓白朮散Ginseng, Poria and White Atractylodes PowderAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Fu Ling 茯苓, Bai Zhu 白朮, Shan Yao 山藥, Bai Bian Dou 白扁豆, Lian Zi 蓮子, Yi Yi Ren 薏苡仁, Sha Ren 砂仁, Jie Geng 桔梗, Gan Cao 甘草, Da Zao 大棗

Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang 身痛逐瘀湯Drive Out Blood Stasis from a Painful Body DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Qin Jiao 秦艽, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Tao Ren 桃仁, Hong Hua 紅花, Gan Cao 甘草, Qiang Huo 羌活, Mo Yao 沒藥, Dang Gui 當歸, Wu Ling Zhi 五靈脂, Xiang Fu 香附, Niu Xi 牛膝, Di Long 地龍

Sheng Hua Tang 生化湯Generation and Transformation DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Dang Gui 當歸, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Tao Ren 桃仁, Pao Jiang 炮薑, Gan Cao 甘草

Sheng Ma Ge Gen Tang 升麻葛根湯Cimicifuga and Kudzu DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Sheng Ma 升麻, Ge Gen 葛根, Chi Shao 赤芍, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Ge Gen
    • Methotrexate through Ge Gen
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Antiplatelet medicines through Chi Shao
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Chi Shao
    • Diabetes medicines through Ge Gen
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Ge Gen
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ge Gen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Chi Shao

    Food and drink

Sheng Mai San 生脈散Generate the Pulse PowderAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Wu Wei Zi 五味子

Shi Hui San 十灰散Ten Partially-Charred Substances PowderAsk before combining

Contains Da Ji 大薊, Xiao Ji 小薊, He Ye 荷葉, Ce Bai Ye 側柏葉, Bai Mao Gen 白茅根, Qian Cao 茜草, Zhi Zi 梔子, Da Huang 大黃, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Zong Lu Pi 棕櫚皮

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Mu Dan Pi
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Da Huang
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Zhi Zi

    Supplements

    • Supplements that slow clotting through Mu Dan Pi

    Food and drink

Shi Pi Yin 實脾飲Bolster the Spleen DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Fu Zi 附子, Gan Jiang 乾薑, Fu Ling 茯苓, Bai Zhu 白朮, Mu Gua 木瓜, Hou Po 厚朴, Mu Xiang 木香, Da Fu Pi 大腹皮, Cao Guo 草果, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Shi Quan Da Bu Tang 十全大補湯All-Inclusive Great Tonifying Decoction, Ten Complete Great TonicAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Huang Qi 黃芪, Rou Gui 肉桂, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Shi Xiao San 失笑散Sudden Smile PowderNothing on our list

Contains Wu Ling Zhi 五靈脂, Pu Huang 蒲黃

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shou Tai Wan 壽胎丸Fetus Longevity PillNothing on our list

Contains Tu Si Zi 菟絲子, Sang Ji Sheng 桑寄生, Xu Duan 續斷, E Jiao 阿膠

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Si Jun Zi Tang 四君子湯Four Gentlemen DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草

Si Miao San 四妙散Si Miao Wan, Four-Marvel PowderUsually fine, with care

Contains Huang Bai 黃柏, Cang Zhu 蒼朮, Niu Xi 牛膝, Yi Yi Ren 薏苡仁

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Huang Bai

    Food and drink

Si Ni San 四逆散Frigid Extremities PowderAsk before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Zhi Shi 枳實, Bai Shao 白芍, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Shi
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Chai Hu
    • Quetiapine through Chai Hu

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Felodipine through Zhi Shi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Zhi Shi

    Food and drink

Si Ni Tang 四逆湯Frigid Extremities DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Fu Zi 附子, Gan Jiang 乾薑, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Fu Zi
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Gan Jiang
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that slow clotting through Gan Jiang

    Food and drink

Si Shen Wan 四神丸Four-Miracle PillAsk before combining

Contains Bu Gu Zhi 補骨脂, Rou Dou Kou 肉豆蔻, Wu Wei Zi 五味子, Wu Zhu Yu 吳茱萸, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Si Wu Tang 四物湯Four Substance DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Chuan Xiong 川芎

Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang 蘇子降氣湯Perilla Fruit Decoction for Directing Qi DownwardAsk before combining

Contains Zi Su Zi 紫蘇子, Ban Xia 半夏, Dang Gui 當歸, Qian Hu 前胡, Hou Po 厚朴, Rou Gui 肉桂, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗, Zi Su Ye 紫蘇葉

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Antiplatelet medicines through Dang Gui
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Clozapine through Dang Gui
    • Diabetes medicines through Rou Gui
    • Estrogen and birth control medicines through Dang Gui
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Rou Gui
    • Midazolam through Ban Xia
    • Sedatives and sleep medicines through Hou Po
    • Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) through Dang Gui
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Suan Zao Ren Tang 酸棗仁湯Sour Jujube DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Suan Zao Ren 酸棗仁, Fu Ling 茯苓, Zhi Mu 知母, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Gan Cao 甘草

Taishan Pan Shi San 泰山磐石散Powder that Gives the Stability of Mount TaiAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Huang Qi 黃芪, Dang Gui 當歸, Xu Duan 續斷, Huang Qin 黃芩, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Bai Shao 白芍, Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Bai Zhu 白朮, Gan Cao 甘草, Sha Ren 砂仁, Nuo Mi 糯米

Tao He Cheng Qi Tang 桃核承氣湯Peach Pit Decoction to Order the QiAsk before combining

Contains Tao Ren 桃仁, Da Huang 大黃, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Mang Xiao 芒硝, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Tao Ren

    Food and drink

Tao Hong Si Wu Tang 桃紅四物湯Four-Substance Decoction with Safflower and Peach PitAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Tao Ren 桃仁, Hong Hua 紅花

Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin 天麻鉤藤飲Gastrodia and Uncaria DrinkAsk before combining

Contains Tian Ma 天麻, Gou Teng 鉤藤, Shi Jue Ming 石決明, Zhi Zi 梔子, Huang Qin 黃芩, Niu Xi 牛膝, Du Zhong 杜仲, Yi Mu Cao 益母草, Sang Ji Sheng 桑寄生, Ye Jiao Teng 夜交藤, Fu Shen 茯神

  • Ask before combining with
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Shi Jue Ming
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that slow clotting through Yi Mu Cao

    Food and drink

Tian Tai Wu Yao San 天台烏藥散Top-Quality Lindera PowderAsk before combining

Contains Wu Yao 烏藥, Mu Xiang 木香, Xiao Hui Xiang 小茴香, Qing Pi 青皮, Gao Liang Jiang 高良薑, Bing Lang 檳榔, Chuan Lian Zi 川楝子

Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan 天王補心丹Emperor of Heaven’s Special Pill to Tonify the Heart (traditionally coated with cinnabar)Avoid together

Contains Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Ren Shen 人參, Dan Shen 丹參, Xuan Shen 玄參, Fu Ling 茯苓, Wu Wei Zi 五味子, Yuan Zhi 遠志, Jie Geng 桔梗, Dang Gui 當歸, Tian Men Dong 天門冬, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Bai Zi Ren 柏子仁, Suan Zao Ren 酸棗仁, Zhu Sha 硃砂

Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang 調胃承氣湯Regulate the Stomach and Order the Qi DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Da Huang 大黃, Mang Xiao 芒硝, Gan Cao 甘草

Tong Xie Yao Fang 痛瀉要方Important Formula for Painful DiarrheaUsually fine, with care

Contains Bai Zhu 白朮, Bai Shao 白芍, Chen Pi 陳皮, Fang Feng 防風

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) through Chen Pi

    Food and drink

Wan Dai Tang 完帶湯End Discharge DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Bai Zhu 白朮, Shan Yao 山藥, Ren Shen 人參, Bai Shao 白芍, Che Qian Zi 車前子, Cang Zhu 蒼朮, Gan Cao 甘草, Chen Pi 陳皮, Jing Jie 荊芥, Chai Hu 柴胡

Wen Dan Tang 溫膽湯Warm the Gallbladder DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Ban Xia 半夏, Zhu Ru 竹茹, Zhi Shi 枳實, Chen Pi 陳皮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Shi
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Wen Jing Tang 溫經湯Warm the Menses DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Wu Zhu Yu 吳茱萸, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Ren Shen 人參, Gui Zhi 桂枝, E Jiao 阿膠, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Gan Cao 甘草, Ban Xia 半夏, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬

Wu Ling San 五苓散Five-Ingredient Powder with PoriaAsk before combining

Contains Ze Xie 澤瀉, Fu Ling 茯苓, Zhu Ling 豬苓, Bai Zhu 白朮, Gui Zhi 桂枝

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Lithium through Fu Ling
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi

    Food and drink

Wu Pi San 五皮散Five-Peel PowderUsually fine, with care

Contains Sang Bai Pi 桑白皮, Chen Pi 陳皮, Sheng Jiang Pi 生薑皮, Da Fu Pi 大腹皮, Fu Ling Pi 茯苓皮

  • Usually fine, but take care with
    • Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) through Chen Pi
Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin 五味消毒飲Five-Ingredient Decoction to Eliminate ToxinUsually fine, with care

Contains Jin Yin Hua 金銀花, Ye Ju Hua 野菊花, Pu Gong Ying 蒲公英, Zi Hua Di Ding 紫花地丁, Zi Bei Tian Kui 紫背天葵

Wu Zhu Yu Tang 吳茱萸湯Evodia DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Wu Zhu Yu 吳茱萸, Ren Shen 人參, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Xi Jiao Di Huang Tang 犀角地黃湯Xi Jiao Di Huang Wan, Rhinoceros Horn and Rehmannia Decoction (made with water buffalo horn)Usually fine, with care

Contains Shui Niu Jiao 水牛角, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Chi Shao 赤芍, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮

Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang 香砂六君子湯Six Gentlemen Decoction with Aucklandia and AmomumAsk before combining

Contains Ren Shen 人參, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Chen Pi 陳皮, Ban Xia 半夏, Mu Xiang 木香, Sha Ren 砂仁, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Xiang Su San 香蘇散Cyperus and Perilla Leaf PowderAsk before combining

Contains Xiang Fu 香附, Zi Su Ye 紫蘇葉, Chen Pi 陳皮, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) through Chen Pi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Xiao Chai Hu Tang 小柴胡湯Minor Bupleurum Decoction, Sho-saiko-toAvoid together

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Huang Qin 黃芩, Ban Xia 半夏, Ren Shen 人參, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Avoid together

    With Interferon alfa

    Taken with interferon, this formula has been linked to a serious lung inflammation (interstitial pneumonitis).

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

  • Ask before combining with

    Through its herbs

    Medicines

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Through its herbs

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Xiao Cheng Qi Tang 小承氣湯Minor Order the Qi DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Da Huang 大黃, Zhi Shi 枳實, Hou Po 厚朴

  • Ask before combining with
    • Digoxin through Da Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Shi
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Diuretics (water pills) through Da Huang
    • Felodipine through Zhi Shi
    • Sedatives and sleep medicines through Hou Po
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Zhi Shi

    Supplements

    • Calming and sleep supplements through Hou Po

    Food and drink

Xiao Feng San 消風散Eliminate Wind PowderAsk before combining

Contains Jing Jie 荊芥, Fang Feng 防風, Niu Bang Zi 牛蒡子, Chan Tui 蟬蛻, Cang Zhu 蒼朮, Ku Shen 苦參, Shi Gao 石膏, Zhi Mu 知母, Dang Gui 當歸, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Hu Ma Ren 胡麻仁, Mu Tong 木通, Gan Cao 甘草

Xiao Huo Luo Dan 小活絡丹Minor Invigorate the Collaterals Special PillAvoid together

Contains Chuan Wu 川烏, Cao Wu 草烏, Tian Nan Xing 天南星, Di Long 地龍, Ru Xiang 乳香, Mo Yao 沒藥

  • Avoid together with
  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Di Long
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

Xiao Ji Yin Zi 小薊飲子Field Thistle DrinkAsk before combining

Contains Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Xiao Ji 小薊, Hua Shi 滑石, Mu Tong 木通, Pu Huang 蒲黃, Ou Jie 藕節, Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉, Dang Gui 當歸, Zhi Zi 梔子, Gan Cao 甘草

Xiao Jian Zhong Tang 小建中湯Minor Construct the Middle DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Yi Tang 飴糖, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Bai Shao 白芍, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Sheng Jiang
    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Xiao Qing Long Tang 小青龍湯Minor Blue Green Dragon DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Ma Huang 麻黃, Gui Zhi 桂枝, Gan Jiang 乾薑, Xi Xin 細辛, Wu Wei Zi 五味子, Bai Shao 白芍, Ban Xia 半夏, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Ma Huang
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Ma Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ma Huang
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Ma Huang
  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Gan Jiang
    • Diabetes medicines through Gui Zhi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the kidneys through Xi Xin
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Gui Zhi
    • Midazolam through Ban Xia
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Gui Zhi
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Gan Jiang

    Food and drink

Xiao Yao San 逍遙散Free and Easy Wanderer, Rambling PowderAsk before combining

Contains Chai Hu 柴胡, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草, Bo He 薄荷, Sheng Jiang 生薑

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Chai Hu
    • Quetiapine through Chai Hu

    Food and drink

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Xie Bai San 瀉白散Drain the White PowderAsk before combining

Contains Sang Bai Pi 桑白皮, Di Gu Pi 地骨皮, Jing Mi 粳米, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Xie Huang San 瀉黃散Drain the Yellow Powder, Xie Pi San, 瀉脾散Ask before combining

Contains Huo Xiang 藿香, Zhi Zi 梔子, Shi Gao 石膏, Gan Cao 甘草, Fang Feng 防風

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Shi Gao
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Zhi Zi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Xie Xin Tang 瀉心湯Drain the Epigastrium Decoction, San Huang Xie Xin Tang, 三黃瀉心湯Ask before combining

Contains Da Huang 大黃, Huang Lian 黃連, Huang Qin 黃芩

Xing Su San 杏蘇散Apricot Kernel and Perilla Leaf PowderAsk before combining

Contains Zi Su Ye 紫蘇葉, Xing Ren 杏仁, Ban Xia 半夏, Fu Ling 茯苓, Qian Hu 前胡, Jie Geng 桔梗, Zhi Ke 枳殼, Chen Pi 陳皮, Gan Cao 甘草, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

  • Ask before combining with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Zhi Ke
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang 旋覆代赭湯Inula and Hematite DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Xuan Fu Hua 旋覆花, Dai Zhe Shi 代赭石, Ren Shen 人參, Ban Xia 半夏, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Ren Shen
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Sheng Jiang

    Food and drink

Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang 血府逐瘀湯Drive Out Stasis from the Mansion of BloodAsk before combining

Contains Tao Ren 桃仁, Hong Hua 紅花, Dang Gui 當歸, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Chi Shao 赤芍, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Chai Hu 柴胡, Zhi Ke 枳殼, Jie Geng 桔梗, Niu Xi 牛膝, Gan Cao 甘草

Yang He Tang 陽和湯Yang-Heartening DecoctionAvoid together

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Lu Jiao Jiao 鹿角膠, Rou Gui 肉桂, Ma Huang 麻黃, Bai Jie Zi 白芥子, Pao Jiang 炮薑, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Avoid together with
    • Blood pressure medicines through Ma Huang
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Ma Huang
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ma Huang
    • Stimulants and decongestants through Ma Huang
  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Pao Jiang
    • Diabetes medicines through Rou Gui
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Rou Gui
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Supplements

    • Supplements that lower blood sugar through Rou Gui
    • Supplements that slow clotting through Pao Jiang

    Food and drink

Yi Guan Jian 一貫煎Linking DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Bei Sha Shen 北沙參, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Dang Gui 當歸, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子, Chuan Lian Zi 川楝子

Yin Chen Hao Tang 茵陳蒿湯Virgate Wormwood DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Yin Chen 茵陳, Zhi Zi 梔子, Da Huang 大黃

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Diuretics (water pills) through Da Huang
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Zhi Zi

    Food and drink

Yin Qiao San 銀翹散Honeysuckle and Forsythia PowderAsk before combining

Contains Jin Yin Hua 金銀花, Lian Qiao 連翹, Jie Geng 桔梗, Niu Bang Zi 牛蒡子, Bo He 薄荷, Dan Dou Chi 淡豆豉, Jing Jie 荊芥, Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉, Lu Gen 蘆根, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

You Gui Wan 右歸丸Restore the Right (Kidney) PillAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Yao 山藥, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子, Tu Si Zi 菟絲子, Lu Jiao Jiao 鹿角膠, Du Zhong 杜仲, Dang Gui 當歸, Rou Gui 肉桂, Fu Zi 附子

You Gui Yin 右歸飲Restore the Right DrinkAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Yao 山藥, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子, Du Zhong 杜仲, Rou Gui 肉桂, Fu Zi 附子, Gan Cao 甘草

Yu Nu Jian 玉女煎Jade Woman DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Shi Gao 石膏, Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Zhi Mu 知母, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Niu Xi 牛膝

Yu Ping Feng San 玉屏風散Jade Windscreen PowderUsually fine, with care

Contains Huang Qi 黃芪, Bai Zhu 白朮, Fang Feng 防風

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines through Huang Qi

    Food and drink

Yue Ju Wan 越鞠丸Escape Restraint PillUsually fine, with care

Contains Xiang Fu 香附, Chuan Xiong 川芎, Cang Zhu 蒼朮, Shen Qu 神曲, Zhi Zi 梔子

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Antiplatelet medicines through Chuan Xiong
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Chuan Xiong
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Zhi Zi

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang 增液承氣湯Increase the Fluids and Order the Qi DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Xuan Shen 玄參, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Da Huang 大黃, Mang Xiao 芒硝

Zeng Ye Tang 增液湯Increase the Fluids DecoctionUsually fine, with care

Contains Xuan Shen 玄參, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃

Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang 鎮肝熄風湯Sedate the Liver and Extinguish Wind DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Niu Xi 牛膝, Dai Zhe Shi 代赭石, Long Gu 龍骨, Mu Li 牡蠣, Gui Ban 龜板, Bai Shao 白芍, Xuan Shen 玄參, Tian Men Dong 天門冬, Chuan Lian Zi 川楝子, Mai Ya 麥芽, Yin Chen 茵陳, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block through Dai Zhe Shi
    • Medicines that can strain the liver through Chuan Lian Zi
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Zhen Ren Yang Zang Tang 真人養臟湯True Man’s Decoction to Nourish the OrgansAvoid together

Contains Ying Su Ke 罌粟殼, He Zi 訶子, Rou Dou Kou 肉豆蔻, Mu Xiang 木香, Rou Gui 肉桂, Ren Shen 人參, Bai Zhu 白朮, Dang Gui 當歸, Bai Shao 白芍, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Avoid together with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

  • Ask before combining with

    Medicines

    • Blood pressure medicines through Gan Cao
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants) through Dang Gui
    • Digoxin through Gan Cao
    • Diuretics (water pills) through Gan Cao
    • Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines through Dang Gui
    • Imatinib through Ren Shen
    • MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) through Ren Shen
    • Warfarin through Ren Shen

    Supplements

  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Zhen Wu Tang 真武湯True Warrior DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Fu Zi 附子, Fu Ling 茯苓, Bai Zhu 白朮, Bai Shao 白芍, Sheng Jiang 生薑

  • Ask before combining with
    • Heart rhythm medicines through Fu Zi
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Supplements

    Food and drink

Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan 知柏地黃丸Anemarrhena, Phellodendron and Rehmannia PillAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Shan Yao 山藥, Ze Xie 澤瀉, Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮, Fu Ling 茯苓, Zhi Mu 知母, Huang Bai 黃柏

Zhi Gan Cao Tang 炙甘草湯Honey-Fried Licorice Decoction, Fu Mai TangAsk before combining

Contains Gan Cao 甘草, Ren Shen 人參, Sheng Di Huang 生地黃, Gui Zhi 桂枝, E Jiao 阿膠, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Huo Ma Ren 火麻仁, Sheng Jiang 生薑, Da Zao 大棗

Zhi Sou San 止嗽散Stop Coughing PowderAsk before combining

Contains Jie Geng 桔梗, Jing Jie 荊芥, Zi Wan 紫菀, Bai Bu 百部, Bai Qian 白前, Chen Pi 陳皮, Gan Cao 甘草

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    • Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) through Chen Pi
    • Lithium through Gan Cao
    • Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) through Gan Cao

    Food and drink

Zhu Ling Tang 豬苓湯Polyporus DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Zhu Ling 豬苓, Fu Ling 茯苓, Ze Xie 澤瀉, E Jiao 阿膠, Hua Shi 滑石

  • Ask before combining with
  • Usually fine, but take care with

    Medicines

    Food and drink

    • Vinegar and sour foods through Fu Ling
Zhu Ye Shi Gao Tang 竹葉石膏湯Lophatherum and Gypsum DecoctionAsk before combining

Contains Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉, Shi Gao 石膏, Ban Xia 半夏, Mai Men Dong 麥門冬, Ren Shen 人參, Jing Mi 粳米, Gan Cao 甘草

Zuo Gui Wan 左歸丸Restore the Left (Kidney) PillAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Yao 山藥, Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Niu Xi 牛膝, Tu Si Zi 菟絲子, Lu Jiao Jiao 鹿角膠, Gui Ban 龜板

Zuo Gui Yin 左歸飲Restore the Left DrinkAsk before combining

Contains Shu Di Huang 熟地黃, Shan Yao 山藥, Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子, Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸, Fu Ling 茯苓, Gan Cao 甘草

Zuo Jin Wan 左金丸Left Metal PillAsk before combining

Contains Huang Lian 黃連, Wu Zhu Yu 吳茱萸

Single herbs

Ai Ye 艾葉mugwort leaf, Artemisia argyiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ba Dou 巴豆croton seed, Croton tigliumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Strong purging loses water and potassium, as water pills do; low potassium also makes digoxin side effects more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

  • With Digoxin

    Strong purging loses water and potassium, as water pills do; low potassium also makes digoxin side effects more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Ba Ji Tian 巴戟天morinda root, Morinda officinalisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Bian Dou 白扁豆hyacinth bean, Dolichos lablabNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Bu 百部stemona root, Stemona sessilifoliaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Dou Kou 白豆蔻round cardamom, Amomum kravanhNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Fu Zi 白附子typhonium rhizome, Typhonium giganteumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Guo 白果ginkgo nut, Ginkgo biloba seedAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Seizure medicines (Carbamazepine, Gabapentin, Lacosamide, Lamotrigine, Levetiracetam, Oxcarbazepine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Pregabalin, Topiramate, Valproate)

    Ginkgo nuts can cause seizures (ginkgotoxin), and may work against seizure medicines.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Any change in your seizures. Ask whether your seizure medicine level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Bai He 百合lily bulb, Lilium browniiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Hua She 白花蛇pit viper or krait, Qi She, 蘄蛇, Jin Qian Bai Hua She, 金錢白花蛇, Agkistrodon acutus, Bungarus multicinctusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Hua She She Cao 白花蛇舌草oldenlandia, hedyotis, Hedyotis diffusaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Ji 白及bletilla rhizome, Bletilla striataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Jiang Cao 敗醬草patrinia, Patrinia scabiosifoliaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Jie Zi 白芥子white mustard seed, Sinapis albaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Mao Gen 白茅根imperata rhizome, cogongrass root, Imperata cylindricaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Qian 白前cynanchum rhizome, Cynanchum stauntoniiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Shao 白芍white peony root, Paeonia lactifloraNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Tou Weng 白頭翁pulsatilla root, Pulsatilla chinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Wei 白薇swallowwort root, Cynanchum atratumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bai Xian Pi 白鮮皮dictamnus root bark, Dictamnus dasycarpusAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    Has been linked to hepatitis, including serious cases, so it may add to the strain on the liver from these medicines.

    Tell your doctor you take it; liver tests may be needed, and stop it if you notice dark urine or yellow eyes.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

Bai Zhi 白芷Dahurian angelica root, Angelica dahuricaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May make some diabetes pills (the sulfonylureas, such as glipizide) last longer, lowering blood sugar more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Diazepam

    May raise the amount of diazepam in the blood, making it more sedating.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Nifedipine

    May raise the amount of nifedipine, lowering blood pressure more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Bai Zhu 白朮white atractylodes, Atractylodes macrocephalaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Peaches and plums

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Napa cabbage

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Bai Zi Ren 柏子仁arborvitae seed, Platycladus orientalisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ban Lan Gen 板藍根isatis root, Isatis indigoticaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ban Xia 半夏prepared pinellia, Pinellia ternataUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Midazolam

    May raise the amount of midazolam in the blood, so it sedates more and for longer.

    Tell the doctor or dentist sedating you that you take it.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

Ban Zhi Lian 半枝蓮barbed skullcap, Scutellaria barbataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bei Sha Shen 北沙參Sha Shen, glehnia root, Glehnia littoralisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bei Xie 萆薢Bi Xie, dioscorea hypoglauca, Dioscorea hypoglaucaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bi Ba 蓽茇long pepper, Piper longumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bian Xu 萹蓄knotgrass, Polygonum aviculareNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bie Jia 鱉甲turtle shell, Trionyx sinensisAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The calcium in this shell can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Amaranth greens

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Bing Lang 檳榔areca nut, betel nut, Areca catechuAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Antipsychotic medicines (Aripiprazole, Clozapine, Fluphenazine, Haloperidol, Olanzapine, Quetiapine, Risperidone)

    Chewing areca (betel) nut brought on stiffness, tremor and restlessness in people taking antipsychotic medicines, and their usual medicine for these side effects stopped working.

    Tell the doctor who prescribes the antipsychotic before taking it; the amount in a formula is smaller than in chewing, but the effect adds up.

    Watch for Stiffness, shaking, restlessness or unusual movements.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Anticholinergic medicines (Amitriptyline, Benztropine, Clozapine, Dicyclomine, Diphenhydramine, Hydroxyzine, Meclizine, Oxybutynin, Paroxetine, Promethazine, Scopolamine, Solifenacin, Tolterodine)

    May weaken anticholinergic medicines (for an overactive bladder, stomach cramps or medicine side effects).

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for A dry mouth, constipation, trouble passing urine, confusion or a fast heartbeat.

Bing Pian 冰片borneolNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Bo He 薄荷field mint, Mentha haplocalyxUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Felodipine

    Peppermint oil raised the amount of felodipine in the blood of healthy volunteers, so its effect (lower blood pressure, flushing, ankle swelling) may be stronger. The mint in a formula holds far less oil.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

  • With Turtle meat

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Bu Gu Zhi 補骨脂psoralea fruit, Psoralea corylifoliaAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    Has been linked to acute hepatitis, so it may add to the strain on the liver from these medicines.

    Tell your doctor you take it; liver tests may be needed, and stop it if you notice dark urine or yellow eyes.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

Cang Er Zi 蒼耳子xanthium fruit, cocklebur, Xanthium sibiricumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    Can harm the liver; other medicines that strain the liver add to the risk.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

Cang Zhu 蒼朮black atractylodes, Atractylodes lanceaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Peaches and plums

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Napa cabbage

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Cao Dou Kou 草豆蔻katsumada galangal seed, Alpinia katsumadaiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Cao Guo 草果tsaoko fruit, Amomum tsao-koNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Cao Wu 草烏wild aconite root, Aconitum kusnezoffiiAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With Heart rhythm medicines (Amiodarone, Digoxin, Diltiazem, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Flecainide, Metoprolol, Propafenone, Propranolol, Sotalol, Verapamil)

    Aconite alkaloids (aconitine) can cause dangerous heart rhythms; with heart rhythm medicines or digoxin the effects may add up.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Palpitations, dizziness or fainting. Ask whether you need a heart tracing (ECG).

Ce Bai Ye 側柏葉arborvitae leaf, Platycladus orientalisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Cha Ye 茶葉green tea leaf, Lu Cha, 綠茶, Camellia sinensisAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With Bortezomib

    In lab and animal studies the main green tea catechin (EGCG) stopped bortezomib from killing cancer cells.

    Avoid green tea, green tea extracts and formulas containing it during bortezomib treatment unless your oncologist says otherwise.

  • Ask before combining

    With Nadolol

    Drinking green tea daily cut the amount of nadolol in the blood by about 85% in healthy volunteers, so it may control blood pressure less well.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks. A slow pulse matters too.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Warfarin

    Large amounts of green tea lowered the effect of warfarin (the INR) in one person.

    Keep the amount of green tea steady from day to day, and tell the clinic that checks your INR.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. Ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Stimulants and decongestants (Amphetamine salts, Caffeine pills and energy drinks, Coffee, Dexmethylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine, Methylphenidate, Phenylephrine, Pseudoephedrine)

    Its caffeine adds to stimulants and decongestants: a racing heart, jitteriness or poor sleep.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for A racing or pounding heart, jitteriness, poor sleep or high blood pressure readings.

  • With Iron supplements

    Tea taken with a meal cut the iron absorbed from it by more than half; iron pills taken with tea may work less well.

    Keep them apart, so the iron is absorbed.

    When Take iron at least 2 hours before or after the herbs.

Chai Hu 柴胡bupleurum root, Bupleurum chinenseAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    Formulas holding bupleurum were linked to more liver injury in people with hepatitis B, most with larger amounts, so it may add to the strain on the liver from these medicines.

    Tell your doctor you take it; liver tests may be needed, and stop it if you notice dark urine or yellow eyes.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Quetiapine

    People taking quetiapine with a formula holding bupleurum had more drowsiness, dizziness on standing and a racing heart than those taking quetiapine alone.

    Tell the doctor who prescribes quetiapine before taking it.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

Chan Tui 蟬蛻cicada molt, Cryptotympana pustulataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Che Qian Zi 車前子plantago seed, Plantago asiaticaAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Lithium

    Herbs that make you pass more water can make the body hold on to lithium, raising its level toward toxic.

    Ask the doctor who prescribes lithium first; a blood level may be checked.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Adds to the effect of water pills.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

Chen Pi 陳皮aged tangerine peel, Citrus reticulataUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) (Esomeprazole, Lansoprazole, Omeprazole, Pantoprazole)

    May raise the amount of omeprazole and other acid reducers of its kind in the blood a little.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

Chen Xiang 沉香aloeswood, agarwood, Aquilaria sinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Chi Shao 赤芍red peony root, Paeonia lactifloraUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add to the effect of warfarin and other blood thinners, so bruising and bleeding may come more easily.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    May add to the effect of aspirin or clopidogrel, so bruising may come more easily.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Chi Shi Zhi 赤石脂red halloysite, Halloysitum RubrumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The minerals in this herb can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Chi Xiao Dou 赤小豆adzuki bean, rice bean, Vigna umbellataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Chuan Bei Mu 川貝母Sichuan fritillary bulb, Fritillaria cirrhosaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Chuan Lian Zi 川楝子toosendan fruit, Melia toosendanUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    May add to the strain on the liver with long use.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

Chuan Mu Tong 川木通clematis stem, Clematis armandiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Chuan Niu Xi 川牛膝cyathula root, Cyathula officinalisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Chuan Shan Jia 穿山甲pangolin scale, Manis pentadactylaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Chuan Wu 川烏Sichuan aconite main root, Aconitum carmichaeliiAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With Heart rhythm medicines (Amiodarone, Digoxin, Diltiazem, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Flecainide, Metoprolol, Propafenone, Propranolol, Sotalol, Verapamil)

    Aconite alkaloids (aconitine) can cause dangerous heart rhythms; with heart rhythm medicines or digoxin the effects may add up.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Palpitations, dizziness or fainting. Ask whether you need a heart tracing (ECG).

Chuan Xin Lian 穿心蓮andrographis, Andrographis paniculataAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines (Azathioprine, Cyclosporine, Everolimus, Leflunomide, Mycophenolate, Sirolimus, Tacrolimus)

    May stimulate the immune system and work against medicines that suppress it.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Signs of infection or of rejection. Ask whether your medicine level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    Slowed platelets or blood clotting in lab or animal studies, so it may add to the effect of blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Blood pressure medicines (Amlodipine, Atenolol, Benazepril, Carvedilol, Chlorthalidone, Clonidine, Diltiazem, Doxazosin, Enalapril, Felodipine, Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Irbesartan, Lisinopril, Losartan, Metoprolol, Nadolol, Nebivolol, Nifedipine, Olmesartan, Propranolol, Ramipril, Spironolactone, Telmisartan, Valsartan, Verapamil)

    May lower blood pressure further.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Chuan Xiong 川芎Szechuan lovage root, Ligusticum chuanxiongUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    May add a little to the effect of aspirin or clopidogrel.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Chun Pi 椿皮ailanthus bark, tree of heaven, Chun Gen Pi, 椿根皮, Ailanthus altissimaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ci Shi 磁石magnetite, MagnetitumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The minerals in this herb can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Ci Wu Jia 刺五加Siberian ginseng, eleuthero, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Acanthopanax senticosusAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Digoxin

    A man’s digoxin level read high while he took eleuthero (Siberian ginseng) and fell when he stopped; it may raise digoxin or make the blood test read wrongly.

    Tell the doctor who checks your digoxin levels that you take it.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Cong Bai 蔥白scallion, green onion bulb, Allium fistulosumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Da Fu Pi 大腹皮areca husk, betel husk, Areca catechuNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Da Huang 大黃rhubarb root, Rheum palmatumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Digoxin

    Used for more than a few days, rhubarb can lower potassium, which makes digoxin side effects more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Used for more than a few days, rhubarb and water pills together can lower potassium.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

Da Ji 大薊Japanese thistle, Cirsium japonicumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Da Qing Ye 大青葉isatis leaf, woad leaf, Isatis indigoticaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Da Zao 大棗jujube date, Ziziphus jujubaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Dai Zhe Shi 代赭石hematite, HaematitumUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    Iron in this mineral may bind the medicine in the gut so less is absorbed.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Dan Dou Chi 淡豆豉prepared soybean, Glycine maxAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) (Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline, Tranylcypromine)

    Fermented soybean can contain tyramine, which with MAO inhibitors can raise blood pressure suddenly and dangerously.

    Ask the doctor who prescribes the MAO inhibitor before taking it.

    Watch for A sudden severe headache, a pounding heart or very high blood pressure: get medical help at once.

Dan Nan Xing 膽南星bile-processed arisaema, Arisaema cum BileNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Dan Shen 丹參salvia root, red sage, Salvia miltiorrhizaAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    Can make warfarin much stronger and has been linked to serious bleeding.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • Ask before combining

    With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    May add to the effect of aspirin or clopidogrel and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Digoxin

    Can make digoxin blood tests read wrongly, so a dose could be changed by mistake.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Midazolam

    May lower the amount of midazolam in the blood, so it sedates less.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) (Citalopram, Desvenlafaxine, Duloxetine, Escitalopram, Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Sertraline, Venlafaxine)

    These antidepressants slightly raise the risk of bleeding; with a herb that also slows clotting, the risks may add up.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Agitation, sweating, shivering, a fast heartbeat or twitching muscles, signs of serotonin syndrome: get medical help at once.

  • With Vinegar and sour foods

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Dan Zhu Ye 淡竹葉lophatherum leaf, Lophatherum gracileNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Dang Gui 當歸Chinese angelica root, dong quai, Angelica sinensisAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May make warfarin and other blood thinners stronger, raising the risk of bruising and bleeding.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines (Anastrozole, Exemestane, Letrozole, Tamoxifen)

    May act like estrogen and work against hormone-blocking treatment for breast cancer.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    May add to the effect of aspirin or clopidogrel, so bruising may come more easily.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) (Citalopram, Desvenlafaxine, Duloxetine, Escitalopram, Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Sertraline, Venlafaxine)

    These antidepressants slightly raise the risk of bleeding; with a herb that also slows clotting, the risks may add up.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Agitation, sweating, shivering, a fast heartbeat or twitching muscles, signs of serotonin syndrome: get medical help at once.

  • With Clozapine

    May lower the amount of clozapine in the blood, so it controls symptoms less well.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

  • With Estrogen and birth control medicines (Combined birth control pill, Conjugated estrogens, Estradiol)

    May add to the effects of estrogen.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Dang Shen 黨參codonopsis root, Codonopsis pilosulaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    Slowed platelets or blood clotting in lab or animal studies, so it may add to the effect of blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Deng Xin Cao 燈心草rush pith, Juncus effususNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Di Fu Zi 地膚子kochia fruit, Kochia scopariaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Di Gu Pi 地骨皮lycium root bark, Lycium chinenseNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Di Long 地龍earthworm, Pheretima aspergillumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add to the effect of blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    May add a little to the effect of aspirin or clopidogrel.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Di Yu 地榆sanguisorba root, great burnet, Sanguisorba officinalisUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Iron supplements

    Its tannins, like those of tea, can bind iron in the gut, so less iron is absorbed.

    Keep them apart, so the iron is absorbed.

    When Take iron at least 2 hours before or after the herbs.

Ding Xiang 丁香clove, Eugenia caryophyllata, Syzygium aromaticumUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    Slowed platelets or blood clotting in lab or animal studies, so it may add to the effect of blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Dong Chong Xia Cao 冬蟲夏草cordyceps, Ophiocordyceps sinensisUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines (Azathioprine, Cyclosporine, Everolimus, Leflunomide, Mycophenolate, Sirolimus, Tacrolimus)

    May work against medicines that calm the immune system.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Signs of infection or of rejection. Ask whether your medicine level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Dong Gua Zi 冬瓜子winter melon seed, Benincasa hispidaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Dong Kui Zi 冬葵子mallow seed, Malva verticillataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Du Huo 獨活angelica pubescens root, Angelica pubescensUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    May add to the effect of aspirin or clopidogrel, so bruising may come more easily.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add to the effect of warfarin and other blood thinners, so bruising and bleeding may come more easily.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Du Zhong 杜仲eucommia bark, Eucommia ulmoidesUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood pressure medicines (Amlodipine, Atenolol, Benazepril, Carvedilol, Chlorthalidone, Clonidine, Diltiazem, Doxazosin, Enalapril, Felodipine, Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Irbesartan, Lisinopril, Losartan, Metoprolol, Nadolol, Nebivolol, Nifedipine, Olmesartan, Propranolol, Ramipril, Spironolactone, Telmisartan, Valsartan, Verapamil)

    May lower blood pressure a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

E Jiao 阿膠donkey-hide gelatin, Asini Corii CollaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

E Zhu 莪朮zedoary rhizome, Curcuma phaeocaulisUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Fan Xie Ye 番瀉葉senna leaf, Cassia angustifoliaAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Digoxin

    Used for more than a few days, senna can lower potassium, which makes digoxin side effects more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Used for more than a few days, senna and water pills together can lower potassium.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

Fang Feng 防風saposhnikovia root, Saposhnikovia divaricataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Fang Ji 防己stephania root, Han Fang Ji, Fen Fang Ji (粉防己), Stephania tetrandraUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood pressure medicines (Amlodipine, Atenolol, Benazepril, Carvedilol, Chlorthalidone, Clonidine, Diltiazem, Doxazosin, Enalapril, Felodipine, Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Irbesartan, Lisinopril, Losartan, Metoprolol, Nadolol, Nebivolol, Nifedipine, Olmesartan, Propranolol, Ramipril, Spironolactone, Telmisartan, Valsartan, Verapamil)

    May lower blood pressure a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

Feng Mi 蜂蜜honey, MelNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Fo Shou 佛手Buddha’s hand citron, Citrus medica var. sarcodactylisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Fu Ling 茯苓poria, Wolfiporia cocosUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Lithium

    A mild herb for passing water; in a formula with others like it, lithium levels may rise.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Vinegar and sour foods

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Fu Ling Pi 茯苓皮poria skin, Wolfiporia cocosNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Fu Pen Zi 覆盆子Chinese raspberry, Rubus chingiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Fu Shen 茯神poria with rootNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Fu Xiao Mai 浮小麥light wheat grain, Triticum aestivumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Fu Zi 附子prepared aconite root, Aconitum carmichaeliiAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Heart rhythm medicines (Amiodarone, Digoxin, Diltiazem, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Flecainide, Metoprolol, Propafenone, Propranolol, Sotalol, Verapamil)

    Can affect the heart’s rhythm; together with digoxin or other heart rhythm medicines the effects may add up.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Palpitations, dizziness or fainting. Ask whether you need a heart tracing (ECG).

Gan Cao 甘草licorice root, Zhi Gan Cao (honey-fried licorice), Glycyrrhiza uralensisAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Taken in large amounts or for weeks, licorice and water pills together can lower potassium, causing weakness, cramps or an uneven heartbeat.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

  • With Digoxin

    Low potassium from large amounts of licorice makes digoxin side effects, such as an uneven heartbeat, more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Blood pressure medicines (Amlodipine, Atenolol, Benazepril, Carvedilol, Chlorthalidone, Clonidine, Diltiazem, Doxazosin, Enalapril, Felodipine, Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Irbesartan, Lisinopril, Losartan, Metoprolol, Nadolol, Nebivolol, Nifedipine, Olmesartan, Propranolol, Ramipril, Spironolactone, Telmisartan, Valsartan, Verapamil)

    Large amounts of licorice can raise blood pressure and cause swelling, working against blood pressure medicines.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Steroid medicines (corticosteroids) (Budesonide (by mouth), Dexamethasone, Hydrocortisone (by mouth), Methylprednisolone, Prednisolone, Prednisone)

    May make steroid medicines such as prednisone act more strongly.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

  • With Lithium

    Licorice makes the body hold salt and lose potassium, which can change lithium levels.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Black licorice candy

    Eating a lot of black licorice adds more glycyrrhizin, the part of licorice that can raise blood pressure and lower potassium.

    Keep black licorice to small amounts while taking formulas with licorice root, especially if you have high blood pressure or heart or kidney problems.

    Watch for Swelling, headaches, muscle weakness or cramps, or an uneven heartbeat; ask about a blood pressure and potassium check.

  • With Pork

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Napa cabbage

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Seaweed

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Gan Jiang 乾薑dried ginger, Zingiber officinaleUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    In large amounts, ginger may add a little to the effect of blood thinners; the amounts in a formula rarely matter.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Gan Sui 甘遂kansui root, Euphorbia kansuiAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Strong purging loses water and potassium, as water pills do; low potassium also makes digoxin side effects more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

  • With Digoxin

    Strong purging loses water and potassium, as water pills do; low potassium also makes digoxin side effects more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Gao Ben 藁本Chinese lovage root, Ligusticum sinenseNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Gao Liang Jiang 高良薑lesser galangal, Alpinia officinarumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ge Gen 葛根kudzu root, Pueraria lobataAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines (Anastrozole, Exemestane, Letrozole, Tamoxifen)

    Its isoflavones act like a weak estrogen and may work against tamoxifen.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

  • With Methotrexate

    May raise the amount of methotrexate, which is toxic in excess.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Mouth sores, unusual bruising or infections. Ask whether your blood tests should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Estrogen and birth control medicines (Combined birth control pill, Conjugated estrogens, Estradiol)

    May add to the effects of estrogen.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

  • With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Ge Jie 蛤蚧tokay gecko, Gekko geckoNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Gou Ji 狗脊cibotium rhizome, Cibotium barometzNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子goji berry, wolfberry, Lycium barbarumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Warfarin

    May make warfarin stronger and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. Ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

Gou Teng 鉤藤uncaria stem, cat’s claw, Uncaria rhynchophyllaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood pressure medicines (Amlodipine, Atenolol, Benazepril, Carvedilol, Chlorthalidone, Clonidine, Diltiazem, Doxazosin, Enalapril, Felodipine, Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Irbesartan, Lisinopril, Losartan, Metoprolol, Nadolol, Nebivolol, Nifedipine, Olmesartan, Propranolol, Ramipril, Spironolactone, Telmisartan, Valsartan, Verapamil)

    May lower blood pressure further.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

Gu Sui Bu 骨碎補drynaria rhizome, Drynaria fortuneiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Gu Ya 穀芽sprouted rice or millet, Setaria italica, Oryza sativaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Gua Lou 瓜蔞trichosanthes fruit, Trichosanthes kirilowiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Gua Lou Pi 瓜蔞皮trichosanthes peel, Trichosanthes kirilowiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Gua Lou Ren 瓜蔞仁trichosanthes seed, Trichosanthes kirilowiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Guan Mu Tong 關木通Manchurian aristolochia stem, Aristolochia manshuriensisAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With Medicines that can strain the kidneys (Celecoxib, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Ketorolac, Lithium, Meloxicam, Naproxen)

    Aristolochic acid destroys kidney tissue; other medicines that strain the kidneys add to the harm.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Passing less urine, or swelling of the legs or face. Ask whether your kidney tests should be checked.

Guang Fang Ji 廣防己Aristolochia fangchiAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With Medicines that can strain the kidneys (Celecoxib, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Ketorolac, Lithium, Meloxicam, Naproxen)

    Aristolochic acid destroys kidney tissue; other medicines that strain the kidneys add to the harm.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Passing less urine, or swelling of the legs or face. Ask whether your kidney tests should be checked.

Gui Ban 龜板tortoise shell, Gui Jia, 龜甲, Chinemys reevesiiAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The calcium in this shell can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Gui Zhi 桂枝cinnamon twig, Cinnamomum cassiaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    Cassia cinnamon in large amounts may add to the strain on the liver.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

Hai Feng Teng 海風藤kadsura pepper stem, Piper kadsuraNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Hai Jin Sha 海金沙lygodium spores, Lygodium japonicumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Hai Piao Xiao 海螵蛸cuttlefish bone, Wu Zei Gu, 烏賊骨, Sepia esculentaAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The minerals in this herb can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Hai Tong Pi 海桐皮erythrina bark, Erythrina variegataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Hai Zao 海藻sargassum seaweed, Sargassum pallidumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Thyroid medicines (Levothyroxine, Liothyronine, Methimazole, Propylthiouracil)

    The iodine in seaweed can push the thyroid too high or too low and upset the dose of thyroid medicines.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Tiredness, feeling cold, or a racing heart. Ask whether your thyroid tests should be checked.

  • With Amiodarone

    Amiodarone is itself full of iodine; seaweed adds more and makes thyroid problems more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Palpitations, dizziness or fainting. Ask whether you need a heart tracing (ECG).

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Lithium

    Lithium and large amounts of iodine both slow the thyroid; together an underactive thyroid is more likely.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Han Lian Cao 旱蓮草eclipta, Mo Han Lian, 墨旱蓮, Eclipta prostrataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

He Huan Pi 合歡皮albizia bark, mimosa tree bark, Albizia julibrissinNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

He Shou Wu 何首烏fo-ti, Polygonum multiflorumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    Has been linked to liver injury; together with other medicines that strain the liver the risk may add up.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Green onion

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Garlic (in food)

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Radish

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

He Tao Ren 核桃仁walnut, Hu Tao Ren, 胡桃仁, Juglans regiaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

He Ye 荷葉lotus leaf, Nelumbo nuciferaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

He Zi 訶子chebula fruit, myrobalan, Terminalia chebulaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Iron supplements

    Its tannins, like those of tea, can bind iron in the gut, so less iron is absorbed.

    Keep them apart, so the iron is absorbed.

    When Take iron at least 2 hours before or after the herbs.

Hong Hua 紅花safflower, Carthamus tinctoriusAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add to the effect of blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    May add to the effect of aspirin or clopidogrel and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Hou Po 厚朴magnolia bark, Magnolia officinalisUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Sedatives and sleep medicines (Alprazolam, Clonazepam, Diazepam, Eszopiclone, Lorazepam, Midazolam, Phenobarbital, Promethazine, Temazepam, Trazodone, Zolpidem)

    May add to drowsiness from sleep and anxiety medicines.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Calming and sleep supplements (Kava, Melatonin, Valerian)

    Calming and sleep supplements, such as melatonin, valerian or kava, may add to its drowsiness.

    Take care driving or doing anything that needs you alert until you know how they affect you together.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness or unsteadiness.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to its drowsiness.

    Avoid alcohol while taking it, or keep to very little, and do not drive after drinking.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

Hu Gu 虎骨tiger bone, Panthera tigrisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Hu Huang Lian 胡黃連picrorhiza rhizome, Picrorhiza scrophulariifloraNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Hu Jiao 胡椒black pepper, Piper nigrumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Propranolol

    Piperine raised the amount of propranolol in the blood of healthy volunteers, so its effect (a slower pulse, lower blood pressure) may be stronger.

    Pepper used in cooking is fine; the concern is the larger amounts in herbal formulas or piperine supplements. Check with your doctor before taking it in medicinal amounts.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks. A slow pulse matters too.

  • With Theophylline

    Piperine raised the amount of theophylline in the blood of healthy volunteers; theophylline is toxic in excess.

    Pepper used in cooking is fine; the concern is the larger amounts in herbal formulas or piperine supplements. Check with your doctor before taking it in medicinal amounts.

    Watch for Nausea, restlessness, a racing heart or trouble sleeping. Ask whether your theophylline level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Phenytoin

    Piperine raised the amount of phenytoin in the blood of healthy volunteers and of people with epilepsy; phenytoin is toxic just above its usual range.

    Pepper used in cooking is fine; the concern is the larger amounts in herbal formulas or piperine supplements. Check with your doctor before taking it in medicinal amounts; a blood level may be needed.

    Watch for Any change in your seizures, unsteadiness or double vision. Ask whether your phenytoin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Hu Ma Ren 胡麻仁black sesame seed, Hei Zhi Ma, Sesamum indicumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Hua Jiao 花椒Sichuan pepper, Chuan Jiao, 川椒, Zanthoxylum bungeanumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Hua Shi 滑石talc, TalcumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Huai Hua 槐花Huai Mi, sophora flower, pagoda tree flower, Sophora japonicaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Huang Bai 黃柏phellodendron bark, Phellodendron amurenseUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar further, so check it more often.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Dextromethorphan

    May raise the amount of dextromethorphan.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Huang Jing 黃精polygonatum rhizome, Siberian Solomon’s seal, Polygonatum sibiricumUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Huang Lian 黃連coptis rhizome, berberine, Coptis chinensisAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Cyclosporine

    Can raise cyclosporine levels in the blood, with more side effects.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Ask whether your cyclosporine level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Dextromethorphan

    May raise the amount of dextromethorphan sharply, adding to dizziness and drowsiness.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar further, so check it more often.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Midazolam

    May raise the amount of midazolam in the blood a little.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Metoprolol

    May raise the amount of metoprolol, slowing the heart more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

  • With Losartan

    May change how much of losartan turns into its active form.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

  • With Pork

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Huang Qi 黃芪astragalus root, Astragalus membranaceusUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines (Azathioprine, Cyclosporine, Everolimus, Leflunomide, Mycophenolate, Sirolimus, Tacrolimus)

    May work against medicines that calm the immune system.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Signs of infection or of rejection. Ask whether your medicine level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Huang Qin 黃芩Baikal skullcap root, Scutellaria baicalensisUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Rosuvastatin

    May lower the amount of rosuvastatin in the blood a little.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

Huo Ma Ren 火麻仁hemp seed, cannabis seed, Cannabis sativaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Huo Xiang 藿香patchouli, agastache, Pogostemon cablinNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ji Li 蒺藜Ci Ji Li, tribulus fruit, Tribulus terrestrisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ji Nei Jin 雞內金chicken gizzard lining, Gallus gallus domesticusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ji Xue Teng 雞血藤spatholobus stem, Spatholobus suberectusUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    Slowed platelets or blood clotting in lab or animal studies, so it may add to the effect of blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Ji Zi Huang 雞子黃egg yolkNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Jiang Can 僵蠶Bai Jiang Can, silkworm, Bombyx batryticatusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Jiang Huang 薑黃turmeric, Curcuma longaAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add to the effect of blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Dipyridamole, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor)

    May add a little to the effect of aspirin or clopidogrel.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Jie Geng 桔梗platycodon root, Platycodon grandiflorusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Jin Qian Cao 金錢草lysimachia, Lysimachia christinaeNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Jin Yin Hua 金銀花honeysuckle flower, Lonicera japonicaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Jin Ying Zi 金櫻子Cherokee rose fruit, Rosa laevigataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Jing Jie 荊芥schizonepeta, Schizonepeta tenuifoliaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Jing Mi 粳米rice, Oryza sativaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ju Hong 橘紅tangerine peel outer layer, Citrus reticulataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ju Hua 菊花chrysanthemum flower, Chrysanthemum morifoliumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Jue Ming Zi 決明子cassia seed, sicklepod, Cassia obtusifoliaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Digoxin

    Taken by mouth it is a laxative; loose stools can lower potassium, and low potassium makes digoxin more likely to upset the heart rhythm.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Together with water pills that wash out potassium, the laxative effect can lower potassium further.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

Ku Shen 苦參sophora root, Sophora flavescensNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Kuan Dong Hua 款冬花coltsfoot flower, Tussilago farfaraNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Kun Bu 昆布kelp, kombu, Laminaria japonica, Ecklonia kuromeAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Thyroid medicines (Levothyroxine, Liothyronine, Methimazole, Propylthiouracil)

    The iodine in seaweed can push the thyroid too high or too low and upset the dose of thyroid medicines.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Tiredness, feeling cold, or a racing heart. Ask whether your thyroid tests should be checked.

  • With Amiodarone

    Amiodarone is itself full of iodine; seaweed adds more and makes thyroid problems more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Palpitations, dizziness or fainting. Ask whether you need a heart tracing (ECG).

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Lithium

    Lithium and large amounts of iodine both slow the thyroid; together an underactive thyroid is more likely.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Lai Fu Zi 萊菔子radish seed, Raphanus sativusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Li Pi 梨皮pear peel, Pyrus bretschneideriNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Lian Qiao 連翹forsythia fruit, Forsythia suspensaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Theophylline

    May lower the amount of theophylline in the blood, so it controls breathing less well.

    If it is started or stopped, the doctor may want to check the theophylline level.

    Watch for Nausea, restlessness, a racing heart or trouble sleeping. Ask whether your theophylline level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Lian Xu 蓮鬚lotus stamen, Nelumbo nuciferaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Lian Zi 蓮子lotus seed, Nelumbo nuciferaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Lian Zi Xin 蓮子心lotus plumule, Nelumbo nuciferaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ling Yang Jiao 羚羊角saiga antelope horn, Saiga tataricaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ling Zhi 靈芝reishi mushroom, Ganoderma lucidumUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Transplant and immune-suppressing medicines (Azathioprine, Cyclosporine, Everolimus, Leflunomide, Mycophenolate, Sirolimus, Tacrolimus)

    May work against medicines that calm the immune system.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Signs of infection or of rejection. Ask whether your medicine level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Liu Huang 硫黃sulfur, SulphurNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Long Dan Cao 龍膽草Chinese gentian root, Gentiana scabraNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Long Gu 龍骨fossilized bone, dragon bone, Os DraconisAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The calcium (or iron) in this herb can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Long Yan Rou 龍眼肉longan fruit, Dimocarpus longanNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Lu Dou 綠豆mung bean, Vigna radiataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Lu Gen 蘆根reed rhizome, Phragmites communisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Lu Hui 蘆薈aloe, Aloe veraAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Digoxin

    Taken by mouth it is a laxative; loose stools can lower potassium, and low potassium makes digoxin more likely to upset the heart rhythm.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Together with water pills that wash out potassium, the laxative effect can lower potassium further.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    Heavy bleeding during surgery was reported in a woman who had taken aloe tablets; aloe may slow platelets.

    Stop it two weeks before surgery, and tell your doctor if you take a blood thinner.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Lu Jiao Jiao 鹿角膠deer antler glue, Cervi Cornus CollaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Lu Lu Tong 路路通sweetgum fruit, Liquidambar formosanaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Lu Rong 鹿茸deer velvet antler, Cervus nipponNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ma Bo 馬勃puffball, Lasiosphaera fenzliiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ma Dou Ling 馬兜鈴aristolochia fruit, Aristolochia contortaAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With Medicines that can strain the kidneys (Celecoxib, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Ketorolac, Lithium, Meloxicam, Naproxen)

    Aristolochic acid destroys kidney tissue; other medicines that strain the kidneys add to the harm.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Passing less urine, or swelling of the legs or face. Ask whether your kidney tests should be checked.

Ma Huang 麻黃ephedra stem, Ephedra sinicaAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) (Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline, Tranylcypromine)

    Can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for A sudden severe headache, a pounding heart or very high blood pressure: get medical help at once.

  • With Stimulants and decongestants (Amphetamine salts, Caffeine pills and energy drinks, Coffee, Dexmethylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine, Methylphenidate, Phenylephrine, Pseudoephedrine)

    Adds to the effect of stimulants and decongestants: a racing heart, high blood pressure, anxiety and sleeplessness.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for A racing or pounding heart, jitteriness, poor sleep or high blood pressure readings.

  • With Blood pressure medicines (Amlodipine, Atenolol, Benazepril, Carvedilol, Chlorthalidone, Clonidine, Diltiazem, Doxazosin, Enalapril, Felodipine, Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Irbesartan, Lisinopril, Losartan, Metoprolol, Nadolol, Nebivolol, Nifedipine, Olmesartan, Propranolol, Ramipril, Spironolactone, Telmisartan, Valsartan, Verapamil)

    Raises blood pressure and heart rate, working against blood pressure medicines.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

  • With Heart rhythm medicines (Amiodarone, Digoxin, Diltiazem, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Flecainide, Metoprolol, Propafenone, Propranolol, Sotalol, Verapamil)

    May cause an uneven heartbeat in people who need heart rhythm medicines.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Palpitations, dizziness or fainting. Ask whether you need a heart tracing (ECG).

  • Ask before combining

    With Theophylline

    Together they cause more sleeplessness, nervousness and stomach upset than theophylline alone, without breathing better.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Nausea, restlessness, a racing heart or trouble sleeping. Ask whether your theophylline level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Ma Huang Gen 麻黃根ephedra root, Ephedra sinicaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Mai Men Dong 麥門冬ophiopogon tuber, Ophiopogon japonicusUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more with diabetes medicines.

    Check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop it.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

  • With Crucian carp

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Mai Ya 麥芽sprouted barley, Hordeum vulgareNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Man Jing Zi 蔓荊子vitex fruit, Vitex trifoliaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Mang Xiao 芒硝mirabilite, Glauber’s salt, sodium sulfateAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Digoxin

    Used for more than a day or two, this strong purgative can lower potassium, which makes digoxin side effects more likely.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Used for more than a day or two, this purgative and water pills together can lower potassium.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

Mei Gui Hua 玫瑰花rose bud, Rosa rugosaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Mo Yao 沒藥myrrh, Commiphora myrrhaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Mu Dan Pi 牡丹皮tree peony root bark, Paeonia suffruticosaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

  • With Garlic (in food)

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Coriander

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Mu Gua 木瓜Chinese quince, Chaenomeles speciosaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Mu Li 牡蠣oyster shell, Ostrea gigasAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The calcium (or iron) in this herb can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Mu Tong 木通akebia stem, Akebia quinataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Mu Xiang 木香costus root, Aucklandia lappaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Mu Zei 木賊scouring rush, Equisetum hyemaleNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Niu Bang Zi 牛蒡子burdock seed, Arctium lappaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Niu Huang 牛黃cattle gallstone, Calculus BovisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Niu Xi 牛膝Huai Niu Xi, achyranthes root, Achyranthes bidentataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Nu Zhen Zi 女貞子privet fruit, Ligustrum lucidumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Nuo Mi 糯米glutinous rice, sticky rice, Oryza sativa var. glutinosaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ou Jie 藕節lotus root node, Nelumbo nuciferaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Pang Da Hai 胖大海sterculia seed, malva nut, Sterculia lychnophoraNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Pao Jiang 炮薑blast-fried ginger, Zingiber officinaleUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    In large amounts, ginger may add a little to the effect of blood thinners; the amounts in a formula rarely matter.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Pei Lan 佩蘭eupatorium, Eupatorium fortuneiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Pi Pa Ye 枇杷葉loquat leaf, Eriobotrya japonicaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Pu Gong Ying 蒲公英dandelion, Taraxacum mongolicumUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Ciprofloxacin

    May lower how much ciprofloxacin is absorbed, so it works less well.

    Take ciprofloxacin at least 2 hours before the herbs.

  • With Lithium

    Dandelion increases urine, which may raise the lithium level.

    The doctor may want to check the lithium level.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Pu Huang 蒲黃cattail pollen, Typha angustifoliaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qian Cao 茜草madder root, Rubia cordifoliaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qian Hu 前胡peucedanum root, Peucedanum praeruptorumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qian Shi 芡實euryale seed, fox nut, Euryale feroxNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qiang Huo 羌活notopterygium root, Notopterygium incisumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qin Jiao 秦艽large-leaf gentian root, Gentiana macrophyllaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qin Pi 秦皮ash bark, Fraxinus rhynchophyllaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qing Dai 青黛indigo powder, Indigo NaturalisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qing Hao 青蒿sweet wormwood, Artemisia annuaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Acid reducers (proton pump inhibitors) (Esomeprazole, Lansoprazole, Omeprazole, Pantoprazole)

    Artemisinin, from sweet wormwood, sped up the breakdown of omeprazole in healthy volunteers, so acid reducers may work less well.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

Qing Pi 青皮green tangerine peel, Citrus reticulataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Qu Mai 瞿麥dianthus, Dianthus superbusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Quan Xie 全蠍scorpion, Buthus martensiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ren Shen 人參Asian ginseng, Korean ginseng, Panax ginsengAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Warfarin

    May make warfarin weaker, so it protects less against clots.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. Ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) (Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline, Tranylcypromine)

    Headache, sleeplessness and restlessness have been reported with phenelzine.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for A sudden severe headache, a pounding heart or very high blood pressure: get medical help at once.

  • With Imatinib

    Serious liver injury was reported in a person on imatinib after starting a daily ginseng drink.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more, so check it more often.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Midazolam

    May lower the amount of midazolam in the blood, so it sedates less.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Raltegravir

    Liver tests rose in a person on raltegravir after adding ginseng, and fell once it was stopped.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Rou Cong Rong 肉蓯蓉cistanche, Cistanche deserticolaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Rou Dou Kou 肉豆蔻nutmeg, Myristica fragransNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Rou Gui 肉桂cassia cinnamon bark, Cinnamomum cassiaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    Cassia cinnamon in large amounts may add to the strain on the liver.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Ru Xiang 乳香frankincense, Boswellia carteriiUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

San Leng 三棱sparganium rhizome, bur-reed, Sparganium stoloniferumUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    Slowed platelets or blood clotting in lab or animal studies, so it may add to the effect of blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

San Qi 三七notoginseng, tienchi ginseng, Panax notoginsengAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May change how blood thinners work: it is used both to stop bleeding and to move the blood.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Serotonin antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs) (Citalopram, Desvenlafaxine, Duloxetine, Escitalopram, Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Sertraline, Venlafaxine)

    These antidepressants slightly raise the risk of bleeding; with a herb that also slows clotting, the risks may add up.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Agitation, sweating, shivering, a fast heartbeat or twitching muscles, signs of serotonin syndrome: get medical help at once.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Sang Bai Pi 桑白皮mulberry root bark, Morus albaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sang Ji Sheng 桑寄生mulberry mistletoe, Taxillus chinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sang Piao Xiao 桑螵蛸mantis egg case, Tenodera sinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sang Shen 桑椹mulberry fruit, Morus albaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sang Ye 桑葉mulberry leaf, Morus albaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    Mulberry leaf lowered the rise in blood sugar after a sugary drink in people with type 2 diabetes, so it may add to diabetes medicines.

    Check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop it.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Sang Zhi 桑枝mulberry twig, Morus albaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sha Ren 砂仁amomum fruit, Amomum villosumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sha Yuan Zi 沙苑子Sha Yuan Ji Li, flattened milkvetch seed, Astragalus complanatusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shan Dou Gen 山豆根Vietnamese sophora root, Sophora tonkinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shan Yao 山藥Chinese yam, Dioscorea oppositaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shan Zha 山楂hawthorn fruit, Crataegus pinnatifidaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Digoxin

    May add to the effect of digoxin on the heart.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Blood pressure medicines (Amlodipine, Atenolol, Benazepril, Carvedilol, Chlorthalidone, Clonidine, Diltiazem, Doxazosin, Enalapril, Felodipine, Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Irbesartan, Lisinopril, Losartan, Metoprolol, Nadolol, Nebivolol, Nifedipine, Olmesartan, Propranolol, Ramipril, Spironolactone, Telmisartan, Valsartan, Verapamil)

    May lower blood pressure a little more.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

Shan Zhu Yu 山茱萸cornus fruit, Cornus officinalisUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more with diabetes medicines.

    Check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop it.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

She Chuang Zi 蛇床子cnidium fruit, Cnidium monnieriNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

She Gan 射干belamcanda rhizome, Belamcanda chinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

She Xiang 麝香muskNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shen Qu 神曲medicated leaven, Massa Medicata FermentataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sheng Di Huang 生地黃raw rehmannia, Rehmannia glutinosaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more with diabetes medicines.

    Check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop it.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

  • With Green onion

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Garlic (in food)

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Radish

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Sheng Jiang 生薑fresh ginger, Zingiber officinaleUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    In large amounts, ginger may add a little to the effect of blood thinners; the amounts in a formula rarely matter.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Sheng Jiang Pi 生薑皮ginger peel, Zingiber officinaleNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Sheng Ma 升麻cimicifuga rhizome, Cimicifuga foetidaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shi Chang Pu 石菖蒲acorus rhizome, sweet flag, Acorus tatarinowiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shi Gao 石膏gypsum, Gypsum fibrosumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The calcium (or iron) in this herb can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Shi Hu 石斛dendrobium stem, Dendrobium nobileNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shi Jue Ming 石決明abalone shell, Haliotis diversicolorAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The calcium (or iron) in this herb can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Shi Wei 石韋pyrrosia leaf, Pyrrosia linguaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Shu Di Huang 熟地黃prepared rehmannia, Rehmannia glutinosaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Green onion

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Garlic (in food)

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

  • With Radish

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Shui Niu Jiao 水牛角water buffalo horn, Cornu BubaliNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Si Gua Luo 絲瓜絡luffa sponge, Luffa cylindricaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Suan Zao Ren 酸棗仁sour jujube seed, Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Sedatives and sleep medicines (Alprazolam, Clonazepam, Diazepam, Eszopiclone, Lorazepam, Midazolam, Phenobarbital, Promethazine, Temazepam, Trazodone, Zolpidem)

    May add to drowsiness from sleep and anxiety medicines.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Calming and sleep supplements (Kava, Melatonin, Valerian)

    Calming and sleep supplements, such as melatonin, valerian or kava, may add to its drowsiness.

    Take care driving or doing anything that needs you alert until you know how they affect you together.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness or unsteadiness.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to its drowsiness.

    Avoid alcohol while taking it, or keep to very little, and do not drive after drinking.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

Suo Yang 鎖陽cynomorium, Cynomorium songaricumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Tai Zi Shen 太子參pseudostellaria root, prince ginseng, Pseudostellaria heterophyllaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Tan Xiang 檀香sandalwood, Santalum albumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Tao Ren 桃仁peach kernel, Prunus persicaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Tian Hua Fen 天花粉trichosanthes root, Trichosanthes kirilowiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Tian Ma 天麻gastrodia rhizome, Gastrodia elataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Tian Men Dong 天門冬asparagus tuber, Asparagus cochinchinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Tian Nan Xing 天南星arisaema rhizome, Arisaema erubescensNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ting Li Zi 葶藶子descurainia or lepidium seed, Descurainia sophia, Lepidium apetalumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Digoxin

    Contains digoxin-like compounds, so together they may slow the heart too much or upset its rhythm.

    Do not combine unless the doctor who prescribes digoxin agrees.

    Watch for Nausea, poor appetite, blurred or yellow-tinged vision, or a slow or uneven pulse. Ask whether your digoxin level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diuretics (water pills) (Bumetanide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Metolazone, Torsemide)

    Increases urine; with water pills, fluid and potassium loss may add up.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Muscle cramps, weakness or an uneven heartbeat, signs of low potassium. Ask whether your potassium should be checked.

Tong Cao 通草rice paper plant pith, Tetrapanax papyriferusUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Lithium

    Makes you pass more water, so lithium levels may rise.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Tu Bie Chong 土鱉蟲ground beetle, Eupolyphaga sinensisUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Tu Fu Ling 土茯苓smilax rhizome, glabrous greenbrier, Smilax glabraUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Tea

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Tu Si Zi 菟絲子dodder seed, Cuscuta chinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Wang Bu Liu Xing 王不留行vaccaria seed, cowherb, Vaccaria segetalisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Wei Ling Xian 威靈仙clematis root, Clematis chinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Wu Gong 蜈蚣centipede, Scolopendra subspinipesNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Wu Jia Pi 五加皮acanthopanax root bark, Nan Wu Jia Pi, 南五加皮, Acanthopanax gracilistylusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Wu Ling Zhi 五靈脂flying squirrel droppings, Trogopterus xanthipesNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Wu Mei 烏梅smoked plum, mume fruit, Prunus mumeNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Wu Wei Zi 五味子schisandra berry, Schisandra chinensisAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Tacrolimus

    Can raise tacrolimus levels in the blood a great deal.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Ask whether your tacrolimus level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Midazolam

    Can more than double the amount of midazolam in the blood, so it sedates more and for longer.

    Tell the doctor or dentist sedating you that you take Wu Wei Zi.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

Wu Yao 烏藥lindera root, Lindera aggregataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Wu Zhu Yu 吳茱萸evodia fruit, Euodia rutaecarpaUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Theophylline

    May lower the amount of theophylline in the blood, so it controls breathing less well.

    If it is started or stopped, the doctor may want to check the theophylline level.

    Watch for Nausea, restlessness, a racing heart or trouble sleeping. Ask whether your theophylline level in the blood should be checked sooner.

  • With Pork

    Traditional caution Traditionally not eaten while taking this herb: the classical list of foods to avoid with medicines (服藥食忌) names it.

    A traditional rule, not a known danger. Ask your practitioner whether it matters for your formula.

Xi Jiao 犀角rhinoceros horn, Rhinoceros unicornisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xi Xian Cao 豨薟草siegesbeckia, Siegesbeckia orientalisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xi Xin 細辛asarum, Chinese wild ginger root, Asarum heterotropoidesUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Medicines that can strain the kidneys (Celecoxib, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Ketorolac, Lithium, Meloxicam, Naproxen)

    Products made with the leaves and stems may contain aristolochic acid, which harms the kidneys.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Passing less urine, or swelling of the legs or face. Ask whether your kidney tests should be checked.

Xi Yang Shen 西洋參American ginseng, Panax quinquefoliusAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Warfarin

    May make warfarin weaker, so it protects less against clots.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. Ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more, so check it more often.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Xia Ku Cao 夏枯草prunella spike, self-heal, Prunella vulgarisUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood pressure medicines (Amlodipine, Atenolol, Benazepril, Carvedilol, Chlorthalidone, Clonidine, Diltiazem, Doxazosin, Enalapril, Felodipine, Hydralazine, Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide, Irbesartan, Lisinopril, Losartan, Metoprolol, Nadolol, Nebivolol, Nifedipine, Olmesartan, Propranolol, Ramipril, Spironolactone, Telmisartan, Valsartan, Verapamil)

    May lower blood pressure further.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

Xian He Cao 仙鶴草agrimony, Agrimonia pilosaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xian Mao 仙茅curculigo rhizome, Curculigo orchioidesNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xiang Fu 香附cyperus rhizome, nut grass, Cyperus rotundusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xiang Ru 香薷mosla, Mosla chinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xiao Hui Xiang 小茴香fennel seed, Foeniculum vulgareUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Ciprofloxacin

    May lower how much ciprofloxacin is absorbed, so it works less well.

    Take ciprofloxacin at least 2 hours before the herbs.

Xiao Ji 小薊field thistle, Cirsium setosumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xiao Mai 小麥wheat, Triticum aestivumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xie Bai 薤白Chinese chive bulb, Allium macrostemonNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xin Yi 辛夷magnolia flower bud, Magnolia biondiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xing Ren 杏仁apricot kernel, Prunus armeniacaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xiong Dan 熊膽bear bile, Ursus thibetanusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xu Duan 續斷dipsacus root, teasel root, Dipsacus asperNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xuan Fu Hua 旋覆花inula flower, Inula japonicaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Xuan Shen 玄參scrophularia root, Scrophularia ningpoensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yan Hu Suo 延胡索corydalis rhizome, Corydalis yanhusuoUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Sedatives and sleep medicines (Alprazolam, Clonazepam, Diazepam, Eszopiclone, Lorazepam, Midazolam, Phenobarbital, Promethazine, Temazepam, Trazodone, Zolpidem)

    May add to drowsiness from sleep and anxiety medicines.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Calming and sleep supplements (Kava, Melatonin, Valerian)

    Calming and sleep supplements, such as melatonin, valerian or kava, may add to its drowsiness.

    Take care driving or doing anything that needs you alert until you know how they affect you together.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness or unsteadiness.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to its drowsiness.

    Avoid alcohol while taking it, or keep to very little, and do not drive after drinking.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

Ye Jiao Teng 夜交藤fo-ti stem, Shou Wu Teng, 首烏藤, Polygonum multiflorumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ye Ju Hua 野菊花wild chrysanthemum flower, Chrysanthemum indicumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yi Mu Cao 益母草motherwort, Leonurus japonicusUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Yi Tang 飴糖maltose, malt sugarNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yi Yi Ren 薏苡仁coix seed, Job’s tears, Coix lacryma-jobiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yi Zhi Ren 益智仁black cardamom, Alpinia oxyphyllaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yin Chai Hu 銀柴胡stellaria root, Stellaria dichotomaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yin Chen 茵陳virgate wormwood, Artemisia capillarisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yin Yang Huo 淫羊藿epimedium, horny goat weed, Epimedium brevicornumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Hormone-blocking breast cancer medicines (Anastrozole, Exemestane, Letrozole, Tamoxifen)

    May act like estrogen and may make aromatase inhibitors such as anastrozole or letrozole work less well.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Estrogen and birth control medicines (Combined birth control pill, Conjugated estrogens, Estradiol)

    May add to the effects of estrogen.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

Ying Su Ke 罌粟殼opium poppy husk, Papaver somniferumAvoid together
  • Avoid together

    With Opioid pain medicines (Buprenorphine, Codeine, Fentanyl, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Methadone, Morphine, Oxycodone, Tramadol)

    Together they deepen drowsiness and can slow breathing dangerously.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Sedatives and sleep medicines (Alprazolam, Clonazepam, Diazepam, Eszopiclone, Lorazepam, Midazolam, Phenobarbital, Promethazine, Temazepam, Trazodone, Zolpidem)

    Together they deepen drowsiness and can slow breathing dangerously.

    Do not combine these unless your doctor and your practitioner agree on a plan together.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to its drowsiness.

    Avoid alcohol while taking it, or keep to very little, and do not drive after drinking.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness, unsteadiness or slow, shallow breathing.

  • Ask before combining

    With Calming and sleep supplements (Kava, Melatonin, Valerian)

    Calming and sleep supplements, such as melatonin, valerian or kava, may add to its drowsiness.

    Take care driving or doing anything that needs you alert until you know how they affect you together.

    Watch for Heavy drowsiness or unsteadiness.

Yu Jin 鬱金curcuma tuber, Curcuma wenyujinUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Blood thinners (anticoagulants) (Apixaban, Dabigatran, Edoxaban, Enoxaparin, Fondaparinux, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Warfarin)

    May add a little to the effect of blood thinners.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools. If you take warfarin, ask whether your INR should be checked sooner.

  • With Supplements that slow clotting (Fish oil, Garlic supplements, Ginger supplements, Ginkgo biloba extract, Nattokinase, Turmeric or curcumin supplements, Vitamin E)

    Supplements that slow clotting, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic or turmeric, may add to its effect on bleeding, so bruising may come more easily.

    Tell your practitioner which supplements you take; you may be asked to pause one before surgery or dental work.

    Watch for Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in the urine or stools.

Yu Xing Cao 魚腥草houttuynia, fish mint, Houttuynia cordataNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yu Zhu 玉竹Solomon’s seal rhizome, Polygonatum odoratumNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Yuan Zhi 遠志polygala root, Polygala tenuifoliaNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zao Jiao Ci 皂角刺gleditsia thorn, Gleditsia sinensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Ze Lan 澤蘭bugleweed, lycopus, Lycopus lucidusUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Thyroid medicines (Levothyroxine, Liothyronine, Methimazole, Propylthiouracil)

    May work against thyroid hormone, or add to medicines for an overactive thyroid.

    Tell the doctor who checks your thyroid levels that you take it.

    Watch for Tiredness, feeling cold, or a racing heart. Ask whether your thyroid tests should be checked.

Ze Xie 澤瀉alisma, water plantain, Alisma orientaleAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Lithium

    Herbs that make you pass more water can make the body hold on to lithium, raising its level toward toxic.

    Ask the doctor who prescribes lithium first; a blood level may be checked.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Zhe Bei Mu 浙貝母thunberg fritillary bulb, Fritillaria thunbergiiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zhen Zhu 珍珠pearl, MargaritaAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that calcium, iron or magnesium block (Alendronate, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Levothyroxine, Minocycline, Moxifloxacin, Risedronate, Tetracycline)

    The calcium (or iron) in this herb can bind the medicine in the gut so less of it is absorbed and it works less well.

    Take the medicine at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, the herbs (4 hours apart for thyroid medicine), or as the pharmacist advises.

    Watch for The medicine working less well than before.

Zhi Ke 枳殼bitter orange, Citrus aurantiumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) (Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline, Tranylcypromine)

    May raise blood pressure with MAO inhibitors.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for A sudden severe headache, a pounding heart or very high blood pressure: get medical help at once.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Stimulants and decongestants (Amphetamine salts, Caffeine pills and energy drinks, Coffee, Dexmethylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine, Methylphenidate, Phenylephrine, Pseudoephedrine)

    Bitter orange contains synephrine, a mild stimulant that may add to a racing heart or sleeplessness.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for A racing or pounding heart, jitteriness, poor sleep or high blood pressure readings.

Zhi Mu 知母anemarrhena rhizome, Anemarrhena asphodeloidesUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Diabetes medicines (Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, Dulaglutide, Empagliflozin, Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide, Insulin, Linagliptin, Liraglutide, Metformin, Pioglitazone, Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, Tirzepatide)

    May lower blood sugar a little more with diabetes medicines.

    Check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop it.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar more often.

  • With Supplements that lower blood sugar (Alpha-lipoic acid, Berberine, Chromium, Cinnamon supplements)

    Supplements taken to lower blood sugar, such as berberine, cinnamon, chromium or alpha-lipoic acid, may lower it further together with this herb.

    If you have diabetes or take diabetes medicine, check your blood sugar more often when you start or stop either.

    Watch for Shakiness, sweating, sudden hunger or confusion, signs of low blood sugar.

Zhi Shi 枳實immature bitter orange, Citrus aurantiumAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With MAO inhibitor antidepressants (MAOIs) (Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline, Tranylcypromine)

    May raise blood pressure with MAO inhibitors.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for A sudden severe headache, a pounding heart or very high blood pressure: get medical help at once.

  • Usually fine, with care

    With Stimulants and decongestants (Amphetamine salts, Caffeine pills and energy drinks, Coffee, Dexmethylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine, Methylphenidate, Phenylephrine, Pseudoephedrine)

    Bitter orange contains synephrine, a mild stimulant that may add to a racing heart or sleeplessness.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for A racing or pounding heart, jitteriness, poor sleep or high blood pressure readings.

  • With Felodipine

    Seville (bitter) orange juice raised felodipine in people, as grapefruit does; the dried fruit may do the same.

    Usually taken together with care. Tell your practitioner about the medicine and watch for the signs described.

    Watch for Dizziness on standing, or blood pressure readings higher or lower than usual. Check your blood pressure more often for the first weeks.

Zhi Zi 梔子gardenia fruit, Gardenia jasminoidesUsually fine, with care
  • Usually fine, with care

    With Medicines that can strain the liver (Acetaminophen, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Kava, Ketoconazole (by mouth), Leflunomide, Methotrexate, Propylthiouracil, Terbinafine (by mouth))

    Taken for a long time, gardenia may add to the strain on the liver from these medicines.

    Tell your doctor you take it if you take it for months.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness. Ask whether your liver tests should be checked.

  • With Alcohol

    Alcohol adds to the strain this herb can put on the liver.

    Keep alcohol low or avoid it while taking it, and tell your practitioner how much you drink.

    Watch for Dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools or unusual tiredness.

Zhu Ji Sui 豬脊髓pork spinal cordNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zhu Ling 豬苓polyporus, Polyporus umbellatusAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Lithium

    Herbs that make you pass more water can make the body hold on to lithium, raising its level toward toxic.

    Ask the doctor who prescribes lithium first; a blood level may be checked.

    Watch for Shaking hands, diarrhea, unsteadiness or confusion, signs of too much lithium. Ask whether your lithium level in the blood should be checked sooner.

Zhu Ru 竹茹bamboo shavings, Bambusa tuldoidesNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zhu Sha 硃砂cinnabar, mercuric sulfideAsk before combining
  • Ask before combining

    With Medicines that can strain the kidneys (Celecoxib, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Ketorolac, Lithium, Meloxicam, Naproxen)

    Mercury adds to the strain on the kidneys.

    Check with your practitioner and the doctor who prescribed the medicine first. A different herb, dose, timing or extra tests may be needed.

    Watch for Passing less urine, or swelling of the legs or face. Ask whether your kidney tests should be checked.

Zi Bei Tian Kui 紫背天葵semiaquilegia root, Semiaquilegia adoxoidesNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zi Cao 紫草arnebia or lithospermum root, gromwell, Arnebia euchroma, Lithospermum erythrorhizonNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zi Hua Di Ding 紫花地丁violet, Viola yedoensisNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zi Su Ye 紫蘇葉perilla leaf, Perilla frutescensNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zi Su Zi 紫蘇子perilla seed, Perilla frutescensNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zi Wan 紫菀aster root, Aster tataricusNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

Zong Lu Pi 棕櫚皮windmill palm fiber, charred as Zong Lu Tan, 棕櫚炭, Trachycarpus fortuneiNothing on our list

No interactions with medicines on our list. That does not prove it is safe with every medicine, so always tell us what you take.

This list is for information and does not replace advice from your practitioner, doctor or pharmacist. It is not complete: no listed interaction does not mean a combination is safe. Never stop or change a prescribed medicine without talking to the doctor who prescribed it.