Herbs for Circulation while on Coumadin Medication
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Trisha
Posted on: August 1, 2000

I would like to know if there are any herbs that will help peripheral Vascular disease? I have had surgery to replace the mitral & aortic valves. I am presently on coumadin and have high blood pressure. I want to know if there is anything that can help me without affecting the coumadin levels or blood pressure.

The diet is a good place to start on improving the health of the blood vessels. Fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds, garlic and onions help to prevent cholesterol build up on the walls of the blood vessels. Alcohol, coffee, eggs, salty foods and sugar products should be kept to a minimum. High fat meat and dairy products, margarine and salad oils (except extra-virgin olive oil) should be avoided because they contribute to fatty deposits on the blood vessel walls. Soy products are helpful in keeping the protein content of your diet high while reducing fatty meat.

Exercise, to a level appropriate to your health condition, helps the blood flow through to the peripheral parts of your body.

Large quantities of vitamin K rich foods are to be avoided while using coumadin: asparagus, beans, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, leafy green vegetables, pork, potatoes, dairy products, rice, tomatoes and turnips.

Ginger, Cayenne (or any hot peppers), Rosemary, Stinging Nettles and Turmeric are all good herbs to support the circulation without affecting the blood-thinning activities of coumadin.

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