Dong Quai and Warfarin Interaction: What You Need to Know

When you take Dong Quai, a traditional Chinese herb often used for menstrual and hormonal support. Also known as Angelica sinensis, it's popular for its natural appeal—but it's not harmless, especially if you're on warfarin, a blood thinner prescribed to prevent clots in people with atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, or after heart valve replacement.

Dong Quai has compounds that may thin your blood even more than warfarin already does. This isn’t just a theory—studies and real-world cases show it can push your INR levels too high, leading to nosebleeds, bruising, or worse. You might think herbal means safe, but that’s a dangerous myth. If you’re on warfarin, your body is finely balanced. Adding Dong Quai is like turning up the volume on a song you’re already listening to at max—it doesn’t just get louder, it distorts. The same goes for other blood thinners like heparin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Even if you’ve been taking Dong Quai for years without issues, suddenly starting warfarin changes everything.

People often don’t tell their doctors about supplements. They say, "It’s just a herb," but that’s exactly why the risk is so high. Your doctor can’t monitor what they don’t know. If you’re using Dong Quai for cramps, hot flashes, or fatigue, there are safer alternatives. Vitamin B6, magnesium, or even black cohosh (with doctor approval) might help without interfering with your meds. And if you’re already on warfarin, don’t stop or start anything without checking first. A simple blood test can show if your levels are stable—or if something’s tipping the scale.

This page brings together real cases, expert advice, and clear comparisons from posts about herb-drug risks, blood thinners, and how supplements quietly affect your health. You’ll find guides on what to avoid, what to ask your pharmacist, and how to spot warning signs before it’s too late. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or just trying to feel better naturally, understanding these interactions isn’t optional—it’s essential.