Do herbal supplements like valerian or chamomile interact with prescription medications?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Herbal supplements such as valerian and chamomile can interact with prescription medications, potentially causing harmful side effects or reducing how well your medications work. Common risks include increased drowsiness when combined with sedatives, bleeding risks with blood thinners, and altered absorption of other drugs. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining herbal remedies with prescription treatments.

If you're experiencing unusual symptoms and suspect an interaction—or simply want clarity on what your body is telling you—don't guess. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your situation, identify possible causes, and confidently plan your next steps. It only takes a few minutes and could help you have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Herbal supplements, such as valerian and chamomile, are commonly used for their calming effects. However, it is important to be aware that they can interact with prescription medications. According to the provided references, these interactions can lead to adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs.

Valerian: This herb is often used to help with sleep and anxiety. It can interact with medications that have sedative effects, potentially increasing drowsiness or sedation.
Chamomile: Known for its soothing properties, chamomile might interact with medications like blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding.

In summary, while herbal supplements can offer benefits, they should be used cautiously, especially if you are taking other medications. If you're experiencing unusual symptoms or side effects, try Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify potential concerns, and always talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it is safe and will not interfere with your current treatments.

(References)

Abebe W. (2002). potential for adverse interactions with analgesic drugs. Journal of clinical pharmacy and therapeutics, 12472978.
Abebe W. (2003). An overview of herbal supplement utilization with particular .... Journal of dental hygiene : JDH, 12704968.
Spinella M. (2001). Herbal Medicines and Epilepsy: The Potential for Benefit .... Epilepsy & behavior : E&B, 12609386.

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