Expert: Coninyah B. Dew L.Ac., M.S.O.M. - 7/25/2008

Question
I had a Pulmonary Embolism a few months ago.  I am currently taking the drug Warfarin.  I just had a visit with my specialist, who recommended that I stay on the drug indefinitely.  I was diagnosed with FVL, and because of this I have a 40% chance of having another clot in 5 years if I go off of the drug.  Are there any natural blood thinners available?  I'd like to explore all my options.

Thank you!

Answer
Hello Kenna,

Thank you for your question. First let me start by saying as a non medical doctor, I can not recommend you discontinue your Warfarin regimen. Only you along with your physician can make that choice. Secondly, any of the natural remedies listed herein are absolutely not to be taken while you are taking Warfarin as they can increase the action of Warfarin. Having said that, there are several natural blood thinners that have been used within Chinese medicine. The first of which is ginkgo biloba (bai guo). Ginkgo bilboa is a tree nut found from the gingko tree and is available in many different formulations to include raw herbs and capsules. If you have allergies to nuts, this remedy is not recommended. Ginkgo biloba is also not to be taken with Vitamin E due to the potential of increased bleeding. Vitamin E can be found in most leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach. White willow (bai liu) is another natural remedy and like ginkgo biloba is available in many different formulations. White willow contains acetylsalicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. Acetylsalicylic acid is the compound believed to be ingredient responsible for blood thinning properties. I would not recommend taking either without the supervision of a trained medical professional. As with all medications, natural or prescribed, risks do exist. I hope these recommendations help. Thank you again for your inquiry and I wish for you all the best and good health.

Regards,
Coninyah B. Dew L.Ac., M.S.O.M.
Acupuncture Stress and Pain Management Practices