Interactions between psychoactive plants and drugs: A review of 14 European monographed herbal remedies

Abstract

This study aims to review the updated literature on plant-drug interactions related to herbal remedies used for sleep and mood disorders. A total of 14 herbal remedies from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) Herbal category were searched for potential interactions in PubMed. Of these, 11 remedies were found to present potential risks of interaction with drugs: Lime flower, California poppy, Arctic root, Lavender, Motherwort, Hop strobile, Passionflower, Hawthorn, Lemon balm, Valerian, and Valerian essential oil. These interactions were primarily pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamics, with notable implications for clinical practice. Healthcare professionals must remain vigilant in managing interactions between psychoactive plants and prescribed medications, relying on available scientific evidence to guide safe use.