13 Natural Blood Thinners: Foods and Supplements That May Help

Blood clotting is a vital bodily function that prevents excessive bleeding when we’re injured. However, when blood clots form abnormally inside veins or arteries, they can lead to life-threatening conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), heart attacks, and strokes.

While medications like warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, and heparin are commonly prescribed to prevent dangerous clots, many people seek natural alternatives due to concerns about side effects, drug interactions, or personal health preferences.

This comprehensive guide explores the best natural blood thinners, including foods, herbs, supplements, and lifestyle changes that may help improve circulation and reduce clotting risk—while also highlighting essential precautions.

Why Blood Thinning Matters

The Role of Blood Clotting

Blood clotting, or coagulation, is essential for healing wounds. When you get a cut, platelets and fibrin form a clot to stop the bleeding. However, problems arise when clots form inside blood vessels without an injury.

Dangers of Excessive Blood Clotting

Abnormal clotting can lead to:

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Clots in the legs that can travel to the lungs.
• Pulmonary Embolism (PE) – A life-threatening condition where a clot blocks lung arteries.
• Stroke – A clot blocking blood flow to the brain.
• Heart Attack – A clot obstructing coronary arteries.

Who Needs Blood Thinners?

Some people are at higher risk of clots due to:

✔ Atrial fibrillation (AFib) – Irregular heartbeat increases stroke risk.

✔ Genetic clotting disorders (Factor V Leiden, Protein C/S deficiency).

✔ Recent surgery or prolonged immobility (long flights, bed rest).

✔ Obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

⚠ Important Note: If you’re on prescription blood thinners, consult your doctor before using natural alternatives—some can dangerously increase bleeding risk.

1. Garlic: The Powerful Anticoagulant

Garlic has long been recognized for its health benefits, particularly heart health. It contains sulfur compounds, including allicin, which are responsible for many medicinal properties. Allicin has been shown to help thin the blood by reducing platelet aggregation, which is the process that causes blood cells to stick together and form clots. Several studies suggest that regular garlic consumption can decrease the risk of blood clots, particularly in people who are at a higher risk due to conditions such as cardiovascular disease or hypertension.

Garlic may also improve cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol levels and improving circulation. Whether consumed raw, roasted or as a supplement, garlic is one of the most accessible and effective natural blood thinners.

How to Use Garlic:

• Add fresh or roasted garlic to soups, salads, and dressings.

• Use garlic powder as a seasoning for meats and vegetables.

• Consider garlic supplements if you’re looking for a more concentrated dose of allicin.

2. Ginger: A Natural Blood Thinner

Ginger, often used in cooking and traditional medicine, contains compounds called salicylates, which are also found in aspirin. Salicylates work to prevent platelets from sticking together, thereby reducing the formation of clots. Regular consumption of ginger may lower the risk of clotting disorders, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism.

Ginger’s blood-thinning properties also extend to its ability to enhance circulation, which is crucial for cardiovascular health. It has also been noted for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it an excellent addition to a heart-healthy diet.

How to Use Ginger:

• Brew fresh ginger tea by steeping ginger slices in hot water.

• Add fresh or powdered ginger to smoothies, stir-fries, or soups.

• Take ginger supplements for a more concentrated dose.

3. Fish Oil: Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Blood Thinning

Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are the most well-studied nutrients for heart health. They can help thin the blood by reducing the tendency of platelets to stick together. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by lowering triglyceride levels, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy blood flow.

The two main types of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, can help prevent the formation of blood clots. Fish oil supplements are an excellent source of these omega-3s, especially for individuals who do not consume fish regularly.

How to Use Fish Oil:

• Eat fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, or sardines at least twice weekly.

• Take fish oil supplements if you don’t regularly eat fish.

• Consider plant-based omega-3 sources such as flaxseeds and walnuts if you’re vegetarian or vegan.

4. Cayenne Pepper: Spicy Blood Thinning Benefits

Cayenne pepper, known for its fiery heat, contains an active compound called capsaicin. Capsaicin has been shown to improve circulation, reduce clot formation, and have mild blood-thinning effects. It helps dilate blood vessels, improving overall blood flow, and it has also been linked to lower blood pressure.

Cayenne pepper is also rich in salicylates, the same compounds that give aspirin its blood-thinning effect. Cayenne pepper can be an excellent addition to your diet by increasing circulation and reducing platelet aggregation, especially if you’re at risk for clot-related issues.

How to Use Cayenne Pepper:

• Sprinkle cayenne pepper on meats and vegetables or into soups.

• Add cayenne pepper to smoothies for an extra kick.

• Consider cayenne pepper capsules or supplements if you don’t enjoy the heat.

5. Vitamin E: A Natural Anticoagulant

Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, protects cells from oxidative damage. It also plays a role in blood thinning by reducing platelet aggregation and helping prevent the formation of clots. Some studies suggest that vitamin E can enhance the effects of other blood-thinning nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids.

Vitamin E is commonly found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils, making it relatively easy to incorporate into your diet. However, excessive vitamin E intake (through supplements) can have adverse effects, including increasing the risk of bleeding.

How to Use Vitamin E:

• Eat foods rich in vitamin E, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, and avocado.

• Use vegetable oils like olive or sunflower oil when cooking.

• Consider taking vitamin E supplements, but only under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

6. Turmeric: An Anti-Inflammatory and Blood Thinning Spice

Turmeric, particularly the active compound curcumin, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin has been shown to inhibit several clotting factors in the blood, which can help prevent the formation of dangerous clots. In addition to its blood-thinning effects, turmeric can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to cardiovascular disease.

Turmeric is often used in cooking, particularly in Indian and Middle Eastern dishes. Curcumin supplements are also available for those seeking higher doses of this powerful compound.

How to Use Turmeric:

• Add turmeric to soups, stews, curries, and rice dishes.

• Drink turmeric tea or golden milk (a combination of turmeric, milk, and honey).

• Take curcumin supplements for a higher, concentrated dose.

7. Cinnamon: A Mild Yet Effective Blood Thinner

Cinnamon, especially cassia cinnamon, contains coumarin, a natural blood thinner. It works by inhibiting the activation of clotting factors, reducing the risk of blood clot formation. However, due to the high levels of coumarin, excessive consumption of cassia cinnamon may cause liver damage.

Cinnamon also has anti-inflammatory effects and can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for those with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

How to Use Cinnamon:

• Add cinnamon to your morning coffee, oatmeal, or smoothies.
• Use cinnamon in baking or as a spice for meats and vegetables.
• Consider cinnamon supplements for a more potent dose of coumarin.

8. Ginkgo Biloba: A Time-Honored Herb for Circulation

Ginkgo biloba, a herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, has been shown to improve circulation by dilating blood vessels and preventing platelets from sticking together. It also helps increase blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function. Ginkgo’s blood-thinning properties benefit individuals with poor circulation or those at risk for stroke.

While ginkgo biloba is often used to treat memory issues and improve circulation, it is essential to use it cautiously with other blood-thinning agents, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

How to Use Ginkgo Biloba:

• Take ginkgo biloba supplements in capsule or liquid form.
• Drink ginkgo biloba tea, though it may not provide as potent a dose.

9. Pineapple (Bromelain) – The Clot-Busting Enzyme

• Active Compound: Bromelain (breaks down fibrin).
• Benefits: Helps dissolve existing clots and improves circulation.
• Best Form: Fresh pineapple or bromelain supplements (500-2000 mg/day).

10. Cloves: A Blood-Thinning Spice

Cloves, which are commonly used in cooking and baking, contain eugenol, a compound that has been shown to prevent blood clots by reducing platelet aggregation. Cloves also have strong anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve circulation, making them a helpful addition to a blood-thinning diet.

How to Use Cloves:

• Add whole or ground cloves to spiced dishes, teas, or baked goods.

• Use clove oil topically for its antiseptic properties.

• Consider clove supplements for concentrated doses of eugenol.

11. Dark Leafy Greens – Vitamin K Balance

• Sources: Spinach, kale, Swiss chard.
• Key Point: Vitamin K regulates clotting—not necessarily thins the blood.
• ⚠ Warfarin Users: Keep vitamin K intake consistent (sudden changes affect medication).

12. Beets – Nitric Oxide Boosters

• Active Compound: Nitrates (improve blood vessel dilation).
• Benefits: Lowers blood pressure and enhances circulation.
• How to Use: Raw beet juice or roasted beets.

13. Green Tea – Gentle Blood Thinner

• Active Compound: Catechins (reduce platelet aggregation).
• Benefits: It also supports heart health and lowers cholesterol.
• Best Form: 2-3 cups daily (avoid excessive amounts due to caffeine).

Blood-Thinning Herbs & Supplements

Beyond food, these natural remedies may help:

1. Ginkgo Biloba – Improves circulation

• Benefits: Reduces platelet clumping and enhances brain blood flow.
• Caution: Avoid taking warfarin or aspirin (it increases bleeding risk).

2. Feverfew – Migraine Relief & Blood Thinning

• Benefits: Inhibits platelet aggregation (similar to aspirin).
• Dosage: 50-100 mg/day (standardized extract).

3. Dong Quai – Traditional Blood Thinner

• Active Compound: Coumarins (natural anticoagulants).
• Used in Chinese medicine for circulation and menstrual health.

4. Vitamin E – A Natural Anticoagulant

• Sources: Almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach.
• Dosage: 100-400 IU/day (high doses increase bleeding risk).

5. Nattokinase & Serrapeptase – Fibrin-Dissolving Enzymes

• Nattokinase: Derived from fermented soy (breaks down clots).
• Serrapeptase: Derived from silkworms (may help dissolve scar tissue).
• Best For: High-risk individuals (consult a doctor first).

Lifestyle Changes for Healthy Blood Flow

Diet alone isn’t enough—these habits enhance circulation:

✅ Stay Hydrated – Thick blood clots more easily (aim for eight glasses/day).

✅ Exercise regularly – Movement prevents blood stagnation (walking, swimming).

✅ Avoid Smoking & Excess Alcohol – Both increase clot risk.

✅ Manage Stress – Chronic stress thickens blood (try meditation yoga).

✅ Compression Stockings are helpful for DVT prevention during long flights.

Final Thoughts

Natural blood thinners can be a safe and effective way to support circulation—when used wisely. By incorporating garlic, ginger, omega-3s, and other clot-fighting foods, along with smart lifestyle choices, you can promote healthy blood flow without relying solely on medications.

Have you tried any natural blood thinners? Share your experience below!