Blood thinning is essential for individuals prone to clotting disorders, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or at risk of stroke. Conventional medications like warfarin or aspirin are often prescribed, but holistic approaches can also be beneficial. Here’s an in-depth look at various natural blood-thinning treatments:

Acupuncture

• Mechanism: Acupuncture is believed to improve blood flow and reduce blood viscosity by stimulating specific points in the body.
• Research: Studies suggest acupuncture can help manage blood pressure and improve circulation, which indirectly contributes to blood thinning.
• Procedure: Typically involves inserting thin needles at strategic points to balance the body’s energy (Qi).

Grounding (Earthing)

• Mechanism: Grounding involves direct physical contact with the earth, which is thought to stabilize the body’s electrical environment.
• Benefits: May reduce inflammation, improve blood viscosity, and enhance overall circulation.
• Practice: Walking barefoot on natural surfaces like grass, sand, or dirt for at least 30 minutes a day.

Herbs and Supplements

• Garlic: Known for its blood-thinning properties due to the presence of allicin.
  • Dosage: 600-900 mg of garlic powder per day.
• Ginger: Contains salicylate, a natural blood thinner. This herb is very hot in nature. Caution in hot type diseases. (
  • Dosage: 1-2 grams of fresh ginger per day.
• Turmeric: Curcumin in turmeric acts as a natural anticoagulant.
  • Dosage: 500-2000 mg of turmeric extract per day.
• Ginkgo Biloba: Enhances blood circulation and reduces clotting.
  • Dosage: 120-240 mg of standardized extract per day.
• Fish Oil: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce blood clotting.
  • Dosage: 1-2 grams of omega-3 per day.

Chinese Herbs and Herbal Formulas

• Dan Shen (Salvia Miltiorrhiza): Commonly used to improve blood flow and reduce clotting.
• Hong Hua (Carthamus Tinctorius): Used to invigorate blood circulation and alleviate pain.
• Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin: A formula for calming the liver and extinguishing wind, benefiting blood circulation. Commonly used for high blood pressure and headaches.
• Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang: Known for invigorating the blood and removing blood stasis.

Dietary Dos and Don’ts

• Do:
  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to maintain optimal blood viscosity.
  • Eat Omega-3 Rich Foods: Include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
  • Consume Fruits and Vegetables: Especially those high in flavonoids, such as berries, citrus fruits, and leafy greens.
  • Use Healthy Oils: Olive oil and flaxseed oil are excellent choices.
• Avoid:
  • Avoid Excess Vitamin K: Found in high amounts in spinach, kale, and broccoli, as it promotes clotting. Watch amounts in various supplements you take.
  • Limit Processed Foods: Reduce intake of trans fats and sugars commonly found in processed and convenience foods which can negatively impact blood health.
  • Reduce Red Meat: Can increase blood viscosity and promote clot formation. Safe levels of consumption for anti-inflammatory would be 6 to 12 oz of red meat per week. LOL. We can all have goals.

Lifestyle Tips

• Exercise Regularly: Moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling improves circulation.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking increases clotting risk and damages blood vessels.
• Manage Stress: Techniques like yoga, meditation, and Tai Chi can help reduce stress and improve cardiovascular health.

Additional Considerations

• Hydrotherapy: Alternating hot and cold water baths can improve circulation.
• Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender and rosemary can aid relaxation and blood flow.

References

1. Acupuncture and Blood Viscosity: “Acupuncture and Circulation” – Journal of Chinese Medicine.
2. Grounding: “The Effects of Grounding (Earthing) on Inflammation, the Immune Response, Wound Healing, and Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases” – Journal of Inflammation Research.
3. Garlic and Blood Thinning: “The Role of Garlic in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention” – Journal of Nutrition.
4. Turmeric: “Curcumin: A Review of Its’ Effects on Human Health” – Journal of Medicinal Food.
5. Ginkgo Biloba: “Ginkgo Biloba Extract in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: A Review” – Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology.
6. Chinese Herbs: “Traditional Chinese Medicine for Blood Circulation and Heart Health” – Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine.
7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: “Fish Oil and Cardiovascular Health” – American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

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This blog covers the spectrum of holistic blood-thinning treatments. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment to ensure it’s safe and suitable for your individual health needs.