NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS AREN’T AS INNOCENT AS THEY SEEM

As a physician, I get this question a lot: “Can I still take my supplements if I’m on a blood thinner like Xarelto?”

The answer is yes—but with caution.
Xarelto (rivaroxaban) is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) prescribed to reduce the risk of blood clots, stroke, and other cardiovascular events. But because it affects the blood’s ability to clot, combining it with certain medications or natural supplements can increase the risk of serious side effects, especially bleeding.

Ginkgo is a popular herbal supplement used to support memory, focus, and circulation.
But what many don’t realize is that it also affects blood flow in multiple ways:
Inhibits platelet aggregation (platelets can’t stick together as well)
Relaxes blood vessels and improves vascular tone

When combined with Xarelto, ginkgo’s effects on platelets can lead to an increased risk of bleeding, including gastrointestinal or intracranial bleeding. Though the causal relationship hasn’t been fully confirmed in all cases, there are enough reports to proceed with caution.

My advice: Avoid using ginkgo while on Xarelto unless closely supervised by your medical provider. If used, watch for signs of bleeding such as nosebleeds, blood in urine or stool, or unusual bruising. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric and is widely used for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

However, it also:

Reduces platelet aggregation
May affect liver enzymes, potentially altering how Xarelto is metabolized in the body This dual effect—impacting both clotting and drug metabolism—can either intensify bleeding risk or reduce the effectiveness of the medication, depending on individual factors.

My advice: Be cautious with curcumin or turmeric extracts while on Xarelto. Occasional culinary use is less concerning, but therapeutic doses in supplement form can be risky. Don’t assume “natural” means safe: Especially with blood-thinners, even plants can pack a punch. Supplements can be powerful tools, but they must be respected, especially when paired with prescription medications like Xarelto. Ginkgo and curcumin are just two examples of natural therapies that can interact with anticoagulants in ways that may not be obvious without a medical lens.

Book an appointment with me today. I’ll review your supplement routine and ensure you’re not unknowingly compromising your health. We accept HSA and offer payment plans. Call/text (480)608-4808

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