Codeine
Codeine, derived from morphine, is a potent painkiller and cough suppressant.
Salicylate-Containing Herbs
Herbs with relatively large amounts of salicylates (aspirin-like compounds) interfere with
absorption of codeine and should not be taken with codeine.1
Salicylate-containing herbs include meadow sweet (Filipendula ulmaria), poplar (Populus
canadensis), willow (Salix spp.), and
wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens).
Tannin-Containing Herbs
All herbs high in tannins can impair absorption of codeine.2
These include green tea, black tea, uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), black walnut (Juglans
nigra), red raspberry (Rubus idaeus),
oak (Quercus spp.), and witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), among
others.
References:
1. Brinker F. Interactions of pharmaceutical and botanical medicines. J Naturopathic
Med 1997;7(2):14–20.
2. Brinker F. Interactions of pharmaceutical and botanical medicines. J Naturopathic
Med 1997;7(2):14–20.
Please read the disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article.
Those wanting to insure they have complete information about possible interactions between a prescription or over-the-counter medication and specific nutrients, herbs, or other medications should talk with the prescribing physician, a pharmacist, or both.
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.