Internal blood clots are blockages in your arteries or blood vessels that prevent blood from reaching muscles, organs or connective tissues. These clots are typically caused by inflexibility of your vessels and arteries, or by fatty buildup along the insides of arterial walls, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Although internal blood clots may require medical attention, certain foods may help dissolve these clots and restore blood flow. However, the Food and Drug Administration has not endorsed any specific food to dissolve a blood clot. Consult your doctor before changing your diet to address internal blood clots.
Ginger
Ginger is a spicy, fragrant herb common in Indian and Asian cooking. However, the roots of this plant may also have medicinal properties. The chemical compounds in ginger may help prevent and remove internal blood clots that can trigger stroke and heart attack, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." It may also help reduce blood cholesterol levels, clearing fatty deposits and allowing your body to naturally remove clots from your circulatory system. Talk to your doctor before treating blood clots with ginger. You may experience stomach upset or heartburn when consuming this herb.
Beans and Legumes
Beans and legumes may help dissolve blood clots and improve circulation, according to the Balches. These foods are loaded with dietary fiber, which may help lower blood cholesterol and remove plaque and blood clots. They also contain vitamin E, a necessary vitamin for enhancing blood circulation. Choose beans and legumes such as garbanzos, lentils, kidney beans, black beans, peas and lima beans. Avoid canned versions, which may contain added salt. Excess sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, which may increase your risk of stroke and heart attack.
Garlic
Herbal healers have prized garlic for its medicinal properties since the times of the ancient Egyptians. This herb contains two chemicals, ajoene and allicin, that may help prevent and dissolve internal blood clots, according to Castleman. These chemicals may also help reduce blood cholesterol, further reducing your risk of coronary artery disease. Contact your doctor if you plan to treat blood clots with garlic. The same chemicals that may help dissolve internal blood clots can also impair your body's ability to heal skin wounds.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
