Queen Anne’s Lace (wild carrot, herbal supplement)

Queen Anne’s Lace or wild carrot (Ducus carota) is a biennial plant that has a white or orange root with a leafy green top with small white flowers. It is in the same family as domestic carrots, parsley, and celery.

The active constituents of Queen Anne’s Lace include porphyrins and tannins. Porphyrins stimulate the pituitary gland, promoting the release of oxytocin and other hormones. Tannins have astringent, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Uses

What is Queen Anne’s Lace used for?

How does it work?

The astringent effect of tannins promotes diuresis or excretion of water. It also works as an antiseptic, with mild antimicrobial properties.

Porphyrins promote the release of oxytocin which triggers uterine contractions. Because of this, there is a risk of inducing abortions in women who are pregnant.

Consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Precautions and warnings

What should I know before using Queen Anne’s Lace?

Herbal supplements are generally safe to take in moderate amounts as directed by a health professional. However, because most herb and food supplements are not approved by the FDA for treating and preventing specific diseases, recommended daily values are not always established.

Despite being advertised as “all-natural” or “safe”, natural or food supplements must be treated as conventional medication. Certain herbal preparations can interact with other medications you are taking, increasing the risk of adverse drug reactions and toxicity.

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Because Queen Anne’s Lace may induce uterine contractions, it is not recommended to use it while pregnant. This supplement should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.

It is not likely excreted in breast milk. This supplement should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.

Side effects

What side effects can occur from Queen Anne’s Lace?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Skin irritation (if applied to the skin)
• Dehydration
• Abortion

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Queen Anne’s Lace?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

The liquid extract preparation of this medication may contain alcohol. Avoid taking the following together with this preparation:

• Antihistamines
• Sedatives
• CNS depressants

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with Queen Anne’s Lace?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

The liquid extract preparation of this medication may contain alcohol thus alcohol consumption should be limited to prevent intoxication, especially in children or adults who need to drive or operate machinery.

What health conditions may interact with Queen Anne’s Lace?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

The recommended dosage of this drug has not been established for treating any specific disease or condition. Consult with a doctor for the appropriate indication and dosage.

What is the dose for a child?

There is no established pediatric dose. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Queen Anne’s Lace available?

This supplement is available in the following dosage forms:

• Liquid extract/tincture
• Tea, coffee, or other drink

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.