Known by another name, thrombocytes, or platelets, are tiny blood cell fragments that aid in clotting. Excessive platelet counts, or thrombocytosis, are necessary to avoid excessive bleeding but can also cause major health problems such blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. For those who suffer from this illness, controlling platelet count is essential. There are several natural ways to lower platelet levels. These techniques include altering one’s diet, adopting a new lifestyle, and using particular herbs and supplements. This is a thorough instruction on lowering platelet counts organically.
Knowledge of Thrombocytosis
It’s critical to comprehend the underlying reasons and hazards of elevated platelet levels before delving into strategies to lower platelet count. Two kinds of thrombocytosis can be distinguished:
- Primary thrombocytosis (Essential Thrombocythemia): Disorders of the bone marrow in which the bone marrow overproduces platelets are the cause of this type of thrombocytosis.
- Secondary thrombocytosis, also known as reactive thrombocytosis: this kind develops in response to another illness, such as an infection, an inflammatory response, malignancy, or an injury following surgery.
Dangers of Having a High Platelet Count
- Blood Clots: An overabundance of platelets can cause blood clots to form in veins and arteries, which raises the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Bleeding Complications: Some patients may have bleeding issues even with a high platelet count because their platelets may not be functioning correctly.
- Additional Complications: High platelet counts may also be linked to erythromelalgia, a disorder that causes extreme burning sensation and erythema in the limbs.
Natural Methods for Lowering Platelets
- Modifications to Diet
a. Fatty Acids Omega-3
Fish oil and some plant oils include omega-3 fatty acids, which are well-known for their anti-inflammatory and blood clot-preventing qualities. By reducing platelet aggregation, they can lessen the likelihood of an excessive blood clot.
- Sources: hemp seeds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, and sardines).
- Suggestion: Make regular use of these foods in your diet. As an alternative, omega-3 supplements may be taken; nevertheless, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare professional about the appropriate dosage.
b. Foods High in Antioxidants
Antioxidants have a beneficial effect on platelet counts and aid in the reduction of inflammation. Antioxidant-rich foods include nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. - Sources: Green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach), nuts (almonds, pecans), seeds (sunflower, pumpkin), and berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries).
c. Garlic
Garlic can prevent platelet aggregation and has inherent blood-thinning qualities. Having a healthy platelet count can be maintained by regularly consuming garlic. - Usage: After speaking with a doctor, add fresh garlic to your food or take supplements containing garlic.
d. Mace
Curcumin, an ingredient in turmeric, has blood-thinning and anti-inflammatory qualities. Curcumin may lessen the aggregation of platelets. - Usage: Include turmeric in your food or take supplements containing the spice.
a. Green Tea: The catechins and other compounds in green tea have the potential to lower platelet aggregation and enhance cardiovascular health in general.
Use: Sip two to three glasses of green tea per day.
- Modifications to Lifestyle
a. Consistent Exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity can lower the platelet count and enhance cardiovascular health in general. By lowering inflammation and increasing blood flow, exercise can support the maintenance of normal platelet counts.
- Suggestion: Try to get in at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-to-intense exercise, including cycling, swimming, or brisk walking.
b. Handling Stress
Prolonged stress can make the body more inflammatory, which may have an impact on platelet levels. Deep breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation are some methods of stress management that can support the maintenance of healthy platelet counts. - Strategies: To relieve stress, try mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or take up hobbies and enjoyable pastimes.
c. Proper Hydration
Maintaining a healthy blood viscosity and avoiding excessive platelet aggregation require enough hydration. - Suggested Drinking: Eight glasses of water or more each day.
- Supplements and Herbal Remedies
a. Ginkgo Biloba
Blood-thinning effects of ginkgo biloba have been demonstrated; these effects may assist lessen platelet aggregation.
- Usage: Ginkgo biloba supplements are safe to take, however it’s best to speak with a doctor about the recommended dosage.
b. Ginger
Salicylates found in ginger have the potential to lessen platelet aggregation. It has anti-inflammatory qualities as well. - Usage: Take supplements containing ginger or include fresh ginger in your diet.
c. Extract from Grape Seeds
Because of its antioxidant qualities, grape seed extract can lower platelet aggregation and enhance cardiovascular health. - Usage: Take supplements containing grape seed extract only after speaking with a physician.
d. Feverfew
Herbs like feverfew have long been used to relieve inflammation and headaches. Additionally, it possesses qualities that can prevent platelet aggregation. - Usage: Feverfew tea or supplements can be taken, but before beginning, speak with a doctor.
- Steer Clear of Specific Substances
- Alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol might raise platelet counts and aggravate other medical conditions. Reducing alcohol consumption is necessary to keep platelet counts at a healthy level.
- Suggestion: Avoid alcohol completely or consume it in moderation.
b. Taking a cigarette
Smoking raises the risk of cardiovascular disease overall and platelet aggregation. Giving up smoking can lower the risk of clotting and greatly enhance platelet health. - Suggestion: To stop smoking, look for assistance from medical professionals or programs for quitting.
c. Coffee
Consuming large amounts of coffee may have an impact on platelet function. Caffeine use should be moderated in those with elevated platelet counts. - Suggested Use: Restrict your intake of caffeine from tea, coffee, and energy drinks.
- Consistent Health Assessment
To keep an eye on platelet counts and general health, routine examinations and blood work are essential. Following up with your doctor on a frequent basis is crucial if you have been diagnosed with thrombocytosis in order to monitor your condition and make any required modifications to your treatment plan.
- Suggestion: Make routine visits with your physician and have your blood checked as directed.
Last Words
A comprehensive strategy involving dietary adjustments, lifestyle alterations, and the use of particular herbs and supplements is required to naturally lower platelet count. It’s crucial to use caution when using these techniques and to always get medical advice, particularly if you are taking medication or have underlying medical issues. It is possible to properly manage platelet levels and lower the risk of issues linked to high platelet counts by combining these natural measures with medical advice.