Last Updated on August 29, 2021
Blood clots may cause heart attacks or strokes. Prescription blood thinners medications lower your risk for heart attack and stroke. Natural blood thinners, on the other hand, are also an option to consider before taking drugs that might have other side effects.
Below are 7 natural blood thinners that can help reduce the risk of clots:
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice with a yellow color. According to a 2012 study, Curcumin – one of the main components of Turmeric, acts as an anticoagulant and prevents blood clots.
Ginger
Ginger is in the same family as turmeric and contains salicylate, a natural chemical found in many plants.
Like Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) which is synthetically derived from salicylate, Ginger can also help prevent stroke and heart attack.
Cayenne Peppers
Cayenne peppers can also have a powerful blood-thinning effect on your body because of their high levels of salicylates. They can also lower your blood pressure, increase circulation, and boost metabolism. They are usually found as an ingredient in many fat burner capsules to boost metabolism.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon and its close cousin, Cassia cinnamon, contain Coumarin – a chemical that is used in certain drugs and acts as a powerful anticoagulant.
However, taking coumarin-rich cinnamon on a long-term basis may cause liver damage. It's best to use only sparingly.
Garlic
Besides its effect as a natural antibiotic and antimicrobial, several studies suggest that garlic may also thin the blood and is beneficial for high blood pressure.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is usually taken for blood disorders, memory problems, and low energy. According to some studies, Gingko also thins the blood and has fibrinolytic effects, which means it may dissolve blood clots. And a study reports that Ginkgo extract has similar effects to Streptokinase, a drug used to treat blood clots.
Bromelain (Pineapple)
Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples and it improves digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also be effective for cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure.
Research suggests that bromelain can thin the blood, break down blood clots, and reduce clot formation.
Takeaway
Natural blood thinners may help prevent blood clots, but they should not be used to replace prescription medications without consulting your doctor.
Reference:
https://www.healthline.com/health/high-blood-pressure/best-natural-blood-thinners
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322384
