To minimise risk of excessive bleeding and bruising, it is best to discontinue the following nutritional supplements for two weeks before and after any procedure
Bilberry (Vaccinium Myrtillus)
- Contains anthocyanosides and flavonoid compounds that strengthen blood vessels, improve circulation and can be useful in treating eye disorders
- Bilberry can affect the blood platelets and may increase bleeding and bruising
Cayenne (Capsicum frutescens)
- Cayenne, which is also know as red pepper, lowers levels of cholesterol in the blood which can help to lower blood pressure.
- Cayenne may affect the blood platelets, increasing bleeding and bruising
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)
- Used to reduce fever or treat migraine headaches
- Feverfew may increase bleeding, especially in patients taking certain blood-thinning medications
Garlic (Allium sativum)
- Used therapeutically to prevent and treat atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and elevated cholesterol
- Garlic may augment the effects of blood-thinners like Coumadin (Warfarin) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) causing abnormal bleeding time
Ginkgo Biloba
- One of the oldest living tree species and one of the best researched herbal medicines
- Ginkgo biloba improves blood circulation by strengthening the vascular system and inhibiting platelet aggregation
- Ginkgo biloba is also used to help prevent mental deterioration in the elderly
- It has significant blood-thinning activity which is three times stronger than Vitamin E
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
- Traditionally used for coughs and as a soothing remedy for the skin
- Glycyrrhizic acid in real licorice may cause high blood pressure, lower potassium levels in the blood and enhance oedema (soft tissue swelling)
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
- It is a herbal medicine used to treat mild to moderate depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Since St. John’s Wort works like the antidepressants called monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, it may interact with these drugs as well as many others
- There is an increased of bleeding and bruising with St John’s Wort
Bromelain (Ananas comosus)
- An enzyme found in pineapple juice and in the pineapple stem
- Contains chemicals that interfere with the growth of tumor cells and slow blood clotting
- Interacts with antibiotics such as amoxicillin or tetracyclines
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)
- An all-purpose women’s herb used to provide energy and regulate female hormones
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Stimulates the digestive system and helps relieve motion sickness, nausea and vomiting
- Use of ginger may alter bleeding time and interfere with cardiac and anticoagulant medications
Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium/Panax ginseng)
- Ginseng is an antioxidant supplement that increases physiological resistance to stress
- It is often taken to enhance physical and cognitive performance
- Ginseng acts as an anticoagulant and may interact with cardiac, high-blood pressure medications and blood-glucose lowering medications{/accordion}
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
- Red clover is herb that is used to treat a number of conditions associated with menopause
- An active constituent in Red Clover has anticoagulant properties that may increase bleeding time
Vitamin E
- Vitamin E is fat-soluble vitamin that is a strong antioxidant and may protect cells from free-radical damage
- This nutrient may play a role in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease and other aging-related degenerative disorders
- Vitamin E also has anticoagulant properties which can prolong bleeding time