SPECIAL REPORT
Herb/Drug Interactions

Anticoagulants
(Blood Thinners)

Some of our most popular herbs lengthen the time it takes for blood to clot, usually by hindering the ability of the platelets to clump together. In most cases, this is a good thing. When a clot forms in the brain, it can trigger a stroke; if it occurs in the cardiac arteries, it can cause a heart attack.
Herbs with clot-protective benefits include garlic (Allium sativum), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). So if you take so-called anticoagulant (anticlotting) drugs, whether it's over-the-counter aspirin or the potent prescription drug Coumadin (warfarin), use these herbs only after checking with your doctor.
If you're going to have surgery, your surgeon will usually tell you to stop taking anticoagulant drugs a few days before the procedure, but you probably won't be asked about anticoagulant herbs you may be taking. So ask whether you should stop taking herbs such as garlic, ginkgo, ginger, or feverfew before surgery. As a matter of fact, it's always a good practice to discuss everything you take - drugs, herbs, or other dietary supplements - with your doctor.

Prevention September 1998 Page 94