Can I take Ginseng and Losartan together?

Why this happens

Ginseng has natural blood-pressure-lowering properties that can add to the effects of losartan. Additionally, some studies suggest ginseng may interfere with the enzymes (CYP2C9 and CYP3A4) that your liver uses to turn losartan into its active form.

What you should do

Monitor your blood pressure regularly at home. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, contact your doctor. It is best to inform your GP or pharmacist before starting any herbal supplements while on blood pressure medication.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

You must not take losartan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby, particularly if used during the second and third trimesters.

High potassium (Hyperkalaemia)

Losartan can significantly increase potassium levels in your blood. Avoid using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium. Ginseng may also affect potassium levels, potentially worsening this effect.

Diabetes

Ginseng can lower blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes and take medication like insulin or metformin, using ginseng may increase the risk of a dangerous "hypo" (hypoglycaemia).

Surgery

Ginseng can increase the risk of bleeding and may interfere with blood pressure control during surgery. You must stop taking it at least two weeks before any scheduled operation.

Blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin)

Ginseng may reduce the effectiveness of blood-thinning medicines like warfarin, increasing your risk of blood clots. Do not start ginseng without specialist monitoring of your clotting levels.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking losartan. Combining alcohol with this blood pressure medicine can cause your blood pressure to drop too low, making you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking ginseng. Ginseng may speed up the rate at which your body breaks down alcohol, but it can also interfere with how alcohol affects your central nervous system.

Potassium-rich foods (e.g. bananas, spinach, salt substitutes)

Losartan can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. You should avoid using salt substitutes containing potassium and speak to your doctor before significantly increasing your intake of high-potassium foods, as very high potassium levels can be dangerous.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Ginseng has stimulant properties. Consuming it alongside caffeine can increase the risk of feeling jittery, anxious, or experiencing a racing heartbeat and high blood pressure.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.