Herbal Supplement Combinations You Should Never Mix

Certain herbal supplements can have powerful effects, and combining them can lead to harmful interactions. Here are some common herbal supplements that should not be mixed, especially with certain medications or other herbs:

1. St. John’s Wort + Antidepressants or Other Herbs

• Why: St. John’s Wort is known to affect serotonin levels, and when combined with prescription antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs), it can cause serotonin syndrome, which is potentially life-threatening. It can also interact with other herbs that have effects on serotonin, such as 5-HTP.
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Ginseng, SAMe, or L-tryptophan (these also affect serotonin).

2. Ginkgo Biloba + Blood-Thinning Medications or Herbs

• Why: Ginkgo can thin the blood, and combining it with blood-thinning medications (like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel) or other blood-thinning herbs like garlic, ginger, or feverfew can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Vitamin E, high doses of fish oil, or other anticoagulants.

3. Kava + Sedatives or Alcohol

• Why: Kava is known for its calming effects, but combining it with sedatives (like benzodiazepines), alcohol, or other herbs that have sedative effects (like valerian or passionflower) can increase drowsiness, impair motor function, and strain the liver.
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Muscle relaxants or any central nervous system depressants.

4. Garlic + Blood Pressure or Blood-Thinning Medications

• Why: Garlic can reduce blood pressure and thin the blood. When combined with blood pressure medications (like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers) or anticoagulants, it can dangerously lower blood pressure or increase the risk of bleeding.
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Ginkgo Biloba or other anticoagulant herbs.

5. Valerian + Antidepressants or Sleep Aids

• Why: Valerian root is often used for insomnia and anxiety, but combining it with prescription sleep aids or antidepressants can cause excessive drowsiness and confusion.
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Alcohol, other sleep aids, or kava.

6. Echinacea + Immunosuppressants

• Why: Echinacea boosts the immune system, which can counteract immunosuppressive drugs (like corticosteroids or medications for autoimmune diseases).
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Herbs that stimulate the immune system, like astragalus or goldenseal.

7. Ginseng + Stimulants

• Why: Ginseng can have stimulating effects, and when combined with other stimulants like caffeine or certain medications (like ADHD medications or decongestants), it can lead to increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and nervousness.
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Guarana, green tea extract, or mate.

8. Licorice Root + Diuretics or Blood Pressure Medications

• Why: Licorice root can cause the body to retain sodium and lose potassium, which can interfere with medications that regulate blood pressure or fluid balance.
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Digoxin, laxatives, or any medication that alters potassium levels.

9. Goldenseal + Anticoagulants or High Blood Pressure Medications

• Why: Goldenseal can elevate blood pressure and affect blood clotting. When combined with anticoagulants or blood pressure medications, it can either increase the risk of clotting or counteract the effect of blood pressure-lowering drugs.
• Also Avoid Mixing With: Blood thinners or hypertensive medications.

General Precautions:

• Always consult with a healthcare professional before combining herbal supplements, especially if you’re taking prescription medications.
• Be mindful of the fact that herbal supplements can have strong physiological effects, even though they’re natural.