Agrimony: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) is an herb that grows in the Northern hemisphere. Its dried leaves and seeds have been traditionally used as medicine.

Agrimony contains chemicals called tannins, which might benefit certain conditions. It might also have antiviral and antioxidant effects.

People use agrimony for diabetes, liver conditions, stomach problems, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse agrimony with hemp agrimony or potentilla. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness

Insufficient Evidence for

Diarrhea.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Kidney problems.
Liver problems.
Sore throat.
Upset stomach.
Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of agrimony for these uses.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Agrimony is possibly safe when used in doses up to 3 grams daily, short-term, or when its extract is used in doses of 160 mg daily for up to 8 weeks. But taking larger amounts of agrimony is possibly unsafe. Agrimony contains chemicals called tannins. In large amounts, tannins might cause stomach irritation and liver damage.

When applied to the skin: Agrimony is possibly safe when used short-term. But using large amounts of agrimony is possibly unsafe. Agrimony contains chemicals called tannins, which might cause side effects. Agrimony can also make some people's skin extra sensitive to sunlight.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy: Agrimony is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth during pregnancy. It might affect the menstrual cycle. Avoid use.

Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if agrimony is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Surgery: Agrimony might affect blood sugar levels. This might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using agrimony at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with Agrimony
Agrimony might lower blood sugar levels. Taking agrimony along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of agrimony might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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