In this article we will try to list most supplements that have blood thinning properties and the risks involved in taking too many of these supplements at once. We would advise caution if taking them together and recommend to avoid taking them before surgeries, or with medication.

What is Blood Thinning

Coagulation (blood clotting), happens as a result to injury on the body or internally. The body rushes red blood cells and platelets to the area to clot up the injury and prevent further blood loss.¹

Thrombocytopenia (thin blood) is when your blood has difficulties clotting due to to having a low platelet count.⁸ This can be dangerous as it puts you at risk of serious internal and external bleeding.⁷ Reasons for low platelet count include:⁸

• Your bone marrow isn't making enough platelets.
• Platelets are being destroyed or filtered out by your spleen too quickly.
• Platelets are trapped in your spleen.

Certain supplements may also have antiplatelet properties.⁷

Blood Thinning Supplements

Below is a list of supplements that have blood thinning properties. We recommend ensuring you don't take too many blood thinning supplements on a regular basis as antiplatelets and anticoagulants in large quantities could lead to thrombocytopenia.^1,7

Experts advise to avoid these before surgery, as could interfere with surgeries.^2,3,4 It is best to discontinue non-essential supplement use two weeks prior to surgery.

• Garlic
• Hawthorn
• Aloe
• Ginkgo Biloba
• Chondroitin-Glucosamine
• Melatonin
• Turmeric
• Bilberry
• Chamomile
• Fenugreek
• Milk Thistle
• Peppermint
• White Willow Bark
• Feverfew
• St. John's Wort
• Cranberry
• Ginger
• Meadowsweet

In particular Garlic, Hawthorn, and Aloe appear to be most strongly associated with surgical bleeding.²

Am I Taking Too Much?

Firstly, you should not be taking these supplements alongside warfarin, aspirin or any other kind of blood related medication.

Generally speaking, if you are following the Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs) and taking the correct dosage then there is likely nothing to be concerned about, but if you are experiencing symptoms or are concerned you may be taking too many of the above supplements, we recommend double checking with a healthcare professional who can perform a blood test to measure your platelet count or suggest an alternative. 

Below are mild signs of thrombocytopenia⁸ and/or may be signs you are experiencing other underlying problems:

• Easy bruising.
• Abnormal bleeding (nose bleeds, bleeding gums, heavy periods).
• Traces of blood in your poo or urine (wee).
• Pinpoint bleeding in your skin that looks like a purplish-red rash (known as petechiae).
• It takes a long time for a cut to stop bleeding.

If you have these symptoms already without supplementation, it's possible that they are caused by a medical condition or nutritional deficiency (Vitamin B12 and Folate). It may also be caused by certain medications.⁸

The number one way to check your platelet count will always be with a blood test.

Signs of Excessive Bleeding

Call your doctor right away as these may be signs of heavy internal bleeding:^5,7

• Red or brown urine.
• Passing blood when you poop or poop that looks like tar.
• Unusual bruising.
• Gum bleeding or nosebleed (lasting longer than 10 minutes).
• Brown or red vomit.
• Coughing up blood.
• Sudden severe back pain.
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
• Bleeding during your period that's heavier than normal.
• A cut that won't stop bleeding.
• Dizziness and weakness.

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