Expert: Dennis Leppanen - 9/27/2009

Question
Hello, I am taking Pau d'arco for yeast infections.  Does it make birth control ineffective?  Also do these herbs make it ineffective?  Or have any interactions with it?  
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)(berry) 0 *

 Damiana (Turnera aphrodisiaca)(leaves) 0 *

 Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)(leaves) 0 *

 Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)(root) 0 *

 Blessed Thistle (Cnicus benedictus)(leaves) 0 *

 Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)(root) 0 *

 Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)(root) 0 *

 Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)(leaves)
Thanks
Alex

Answer
Pau d'arco is fine, should not affect birth control.

Saw Palmetto - Fine.

Damiana - Fine. It does interfere with iron absorption.

Lemon Balm - Fine.

Dong Quai - This is a questionable one. Increases the effects of ovarian and testicular hormones. Used in the treatment of female problems such as hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, and vaginal dryness. *It is one on the herbs contraindicated during pregnancy.

Blessed Thistle - Must be watched for toxic skin effects.

Dandelion Root - Fine.

Wild Yam - Used in premenstrual syndrome menopause-related symptoms. - Should be fine.

Motherwort - Another herb contraindicated during pregnancy. Questionable with birth control.

There you go Alex. The amount of each herb also makes a difference. Is this a formula?

Best wishes,

Dennis