Warfarin, a blood-thinning medication, keeps your blood from forming clots. Warfarin helps patients who have suffered from deep vein thrombosis, the formation of blood clots in the body. Blood clots can cause strokes and other serious health problems. Nettle, an herb used in the treatment of cancer, circulatory problems, respiratory ailments and arthritis, has not been approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration as a medication. Nettle may interfere with the effects of warfarin on clotting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Side effects may occur from both the drug warfarin and the herbal supplement nettles. Consult your doctor before using any supplement.
Interactions
If you take warfarin to prevent blood clotting, it thins the blood out and clots have a harder time forming. RxList.com states that nettle parts used in supplements may contain substantial levels of vitamin K, which may cause your blood to clot. RxList.com rates the interaction risk of nettle and warfarin as moderate and recommends talking to your physician about using the herb and the drug together.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea, a common side effect of warfarin, may occur when you start taking it. Vomiting is also a possibility. Taking your medication with food may prevent these side effects. If you continue to suffer from them after a couple of days, report this side effect to your doctor. If you notice blood in your vomit, call your doctor right away.
Stomach Discomfort
Stomach pain may occur when you first start taking warfarin, Drugs.com states. You can help prevent this side effect by taking the medicine with food. If you continue to suffer from abdominal pain, call your doctor. Stomach pain may also occur with nettle but should subside in a couple of days, especially if you take nettle along with food.
Urine Output
Your urine output may change as you take nettle, Drugs.com reports. It may decrease at first, but should regain its normal rate after a couple of days. If you notice painful burning with urination, call your physician; it may signify a urinary tract or kidney infection.
Diarrhea
Loose, frequent bowel movements are a common side effect with nettle and should subside in a few days. If diarrhea continues, call your physician.
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