Expert: Dr. Man Tran, Ph.D., D.C., L.Ac. - 2/15/2007

Question
Dr. Tran,
Thanks for replying to my question.  DVT- deep vein thrombosis- was the
topic of my question.  Again, any insight you can provide in re:  alternative
treatment to this condition other than surgery, or coumadin/heparin, would
be greatly appreciated.  I was most interested in herbs or alternative
treatment to safely dissolve a blood clot.  Thank you for your time.
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
DR.TRAN,
Do you have any suggestions for treating a possible proximal dvt-
ileofemoral?  Can accupuncture help safely treat DVT and are there any herbs
that can safely dissolve clots without making it into an emboli?  Lastly, are
there any herbs that can be used as a prophylaxis for the reoccurence of
DVTs? Your insight and answer will be truly appreciated. FYI- I have been
taking ASA 325 mg, 2 tabs bid, and have been taking Horsechestnut
Extract300 mg bid, and garlic tabs-2000 mg bid as well-plus a multivitamin.
Again, thank you for any insight you can share.
-----Answer-----
Dear Arthur,

My apology for the delayed response.  My internet has been down and unable
to log on to attend to all questions.  Each question is very important to me to
do my best to provide the appropriate information.

I am not familiar with "DVT."  Please give me more information on the topic
and perhaps I will be able to give you proper advise.

Answer
Dear Arthur,

There are herbs that have the same function as the medication your are taking which act as blood thinner.  These herbs are not to be use when a person is about to have surgery.  The herbs when properly prescribed in the right combination and dosage, have a good possibility of managing the DVT. However, a Licensed acupuncturist or Chinese herbalist is properly trained to prescribe such mixture specifically tailored to you body type and the condition itself.