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Using Essential Oils Safely with Blood Thinners

Blood thinners, also known as anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs, are commonly prescribed medications that reduce the likelihood of blood clots forming. They work by lengthening the time it takes for blood to clot or by preventing clumping of platelets.

While these medications are effective at reducing risk of dangerous clots, they also come with an increased risk of excessive bleeding. This makes it extremely important for those on blood thinners to be aware of any interactions with foods, herbs, supplements or other drugs that could amplify the blood thinning effect.

Essential oils are growing in popularity for their many purported health benefits. However, their use requires caution for people on anticoagulant medications due to potential interactions.

How Blood Thinners Work

There are several types of prescription blood thinners that work in different ways:

• Anticoagulants - thin the blood to prevent clot formation. Includes warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, enoxaparin (Lovenox).
• Antiplatelets - prevent platelets from clumping and sticking together. Includes clopidogrel (Plavix), prasugrel (Effient).
• Thrombolytics - break up existing blood clots. Includes alteplase (Activase) and tenecteplase (TNKase).

Each of these medications interferes with the body's normal clotting process to reduce risks like pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, stroke and heart attack.

Dangers of Thinning the Blood Too Much

While anticoagulants are vital for preventing fatal clots, they require close monitoring and balancing. Too much blood thinning can lead to:

• Easy or excessive bruising
• Prolonged bleeding from cuts
• Nosebleeds
• Bleeding gums
• Blood in urine or stool
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Internal bleeding
• Hemorrhagic stroke

Those on blood thinners must be cautious to avoid herbs, supplements or activities that could amplify blood thinning or bleeding risks.

Essential Oils and Blood Thinners

Many commonly used essential oils have natural blood thinning or antiplatelet properties. This includes popular oils like:

• Clove
• Fish oil
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Ginkgo
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon
• Grapefruit
• Feverfew
• Chamomile
• Angelica

While research is still limited, these oils may potentially increase bleeding risks when combined with pharmaceutical blood thinners. Those on anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs should use them cautiously or avoid them unless approved by their doctor.

Mechanisms of Action

Essential oils can thin the blood through several mechanisms:

• Inhibiting platelet aggregation
• Interfering with the clotting cascade
• Increasing fibrinolysis
• Blocking synthesis of clotting factors
• Improving circulation and blood flow

Many oils contain compounds that act in similar ways to aspirin or NSAID drugs. They prevent platelets from sticking together and clumping. They also impede the clotting process at various stages.

Risks and Side Effects

Using essential oils with blood thinning medications raises the potential for:

• Easy bruising
• Excessive bleeding from minor cuts
• Prolonged nosebleeds
• Bleeding gums
• Heavy periods
• Blood in urine or stool
• Hemorrhagic stroke
• Internal bleeding

Those already at high risk for bleeding problems should use essential oils under medical supervision only. Stop use immediately if unusual bleeding develops.

Using Essential Oils Safely on Blood Thinners

It is best to consult your physician before using essential oils if you take any anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. But some general precautions include:

• Avoid potent blood thinning essential oils like clove, ginger, garlic, ginkgo, turmeric, angelica
• Use oil blends rather than single oils to dilute potency
• Limit use to 1-2 drops diluted in a carrier oil and applied topically
• Never ingest essential oils without medical approval
• Watch for signs of bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums
• Stop oils immediately if you experience unusual bleeding
• Monitor INR closely if using essential oils

Certain oils may be safer options on blood thinners when used carefully and sparingly. Some examples include:

Lavender

Has relaxing, soothing properties. May be cautiously used topically for sleep, anxiety, wounds.

Tea Tree

Has antimicrobial benefits for skin conditions. Use diluted on small areas only.</

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.