One of these is garlic. Researchers at Kansas State University discovered that garlic possesses a potent compound called ajoene, which has been found to help prevent blood clots. This compound can easily be obtained by eating a clove of raw or lightly cooked garlic every day.
Other foods that improve blood flow and prevent blood clots include turmeric, ginger, cayenne peppers, pineapple, and cinnamon. Turmeric has long been used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Research published in BMB Reports shows that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and blood-thinning or anticoagulant properties. Turmeric can be added to curries or mixed with hot water to make tea.
Ginger is another anti-inflammatory herb that may prevent blood clotting. Its anticoagulant effect can be attributed to the salicylates it contains. You can use fresh or dried ginger regularly in cooking, baking, and juices.
Like ginger, cayenne peppers are also rich in salicylates, which means that they can also act as a blood-thinning agent. In addition, cayenne peppers help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce pain sensations. They can be taken in capsule form or used as a spice.
Pineapple may also be consumed for blood-thinning purposes. This fruit contains an enzyme known as bromelain, which can thin the blood, break down blood clots, and lessen the formation of clots. In addition, this enzyme possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
Cinnamon also has blood-thinning properties because of its compound called coumarin. This spice may also reduce blood pressure and relieve inflammation caused by arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
Medicinal plants like ginkgo biloba, dong quai, and feverfew are also natural blood thinners. Ginkgo biloba is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used for blood disorders, memory problems, and low energy. It may also dissolve blood clots because of its fibrinolytic effects. A study published in Experimental & Clinical Cardiology found that it is as effective as streptokinase, a drug used to treat blood clots.
Like ginkgo biloba, dong quai, also referred to as female ginseng, is a TCM that may reduce blood clotting. Animal studies reported that dong quai significantly increases the length of time it takes for blood to clot. This herb can be added to tea or soup. Another medicinal herb, feverfew may also act as a blood thinner. It works by suppressing the activity of platelets and inhibiting blood clotting. It is available in capsule and liquid form.
Aside from these herbs and spices, you should also drink pure, clean water. It is the most powerful blood thinner medication that has no side effects and can be consumed many times each day. Water works by preventing dehydration, which can result in blood thickening. In a study in which men who drank water were studied, researchers from Loma Linda University found that those who drank at least 40 oz of water throughout the day reduced their risk of forming blood clots and suffering from stroke by more than 50 percent.
The dangers of conventional blood thinners
As mentioned earlier, blood thinning drugs cause deadly side effects. Xarelto, one of the best-selling blood thinners on the market, may cause internal bleeding and even cerebral hemorrhaging. Evidence suggests that people who take this drug have higher rates of blood transfusions and gastrointestinal bleeding. These drugs can also increase a person's risk of heart attack or stroke.
Read more about the dangers of commercial blood thinning medications at DangerousMedicine.com.
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