Blockage of artery in the lungs gives rise to a condition called pulmonary embolism. Blood clots can be caused by various factors – the most common of them being deep vein thrombosis. Blood clots (thrombus) formed in deep veins of upper or lower parts of legs break down and travel to lungs and settle down in a much smaller artery.
Aspirin and coumadin are the most sought after medications for pulmonary embolism. However, herbal remedies also prevent this condition by inhibiting formation of blood clots and improving blood circulation in the body. Here are some of the best herbal remedies for pulmonary embolism.
Best Herbal Remedies For Pulmonary Embolism
Red Clover
This particular herb contains coumarin that prevents platelet aggregation and acts as anticoagulant. Because of these properties, red clover prevents blood clot formation. It also contains isoflavones and luteolin and apigenin like flavones that inhibit binding to thromboxane A2 receptor.However, patients who are already on anticoagulant drugs should avoid use of red clover without medical supervision as their concurrent use may turn the blood too thin.
Ginger
One of the most popular anticoagulant herb is ginger. It is well known for its atherosclerosis-preventing properties and blood-thinning properties. Ginger prevents blood platelets from sticking to each other and hence prevent blood clotting.It reduces cholesterol levels in the blood and also normalizes blood pressure. It delays blood clot formation and improves blood circulation. People already on aspirin should avoid using this herb without medical supervision.
Sweet Clover
This particular herb is a popular herbal remedy for venous insufficiency and related problems like varicose veins. The active agents in this herb are anti-coagulant compounds like coumarin and flavonoids.Coumarin thins blood and promotes smooth blood flow in the veins. Hence, it acts as a tonic for veins. In addition, sweet clover is also a wonderful remedy for swelling, joint aches, congestion and fluid retention.
Gingko Biloba
This particular herb is usually prescribed for improving memory and cognitive abilities since it greatly improves blood flow to the cerebral area.It contains flavonoids that dilate micro capillaries and hence increases not only blood circulation but also oxygen levels. It decreases platelet aggregation and inhibits spontaneous bleeding. Gingko biloba behaves in the same manner as streptokinase – a fibrinolytic drug.
Kava Kava
This particular herb is a popular remedy for insomnia, anxiety and other such related conditions. The active agents in this herb are kavalactones that are found in the roots. One such kavalactone called kawain decreases production of thromboxane 2 and hence reduces platelet aggregation.
Dong Quai
This herb is a popular remedy for menstrual disorders. But it is also highly regarded for its efficiency in improving blood circulation. It contains coumarin derivates that promote vasodilation. It decreases platelet aggregation and hence inhibit formation of blood clots.
Cayenne
The active agent in it is capsaicin that wards off lipid deposits in the arteries, dilates blood vessels as well as arteries and prevent formation of clots. It reduces blood cholesterol as well as triglycerides.It also decreases platelet aggregation. It naturally dissolves fibrin that is crucial in the formation of blood clots.
