PT INR test - #17206
A few weeks ago, I had some unusual bruising on my arms and legs that I couldn’t explain. I didn’t bump into anything, but I kept finding dark purple marks that took forever to fade. Then, I started getting random nosebleeds and even noticed my gums bleeding slightly when brushing my teeth. At first, I thought maybe it was just due to dry weather, but it kept happening, so I went to the doctor. He ordered a PT INR test, saying it would check my blood’s clotting ability. I had never heard of this test before, and when I looked it up, I saw that it’s used to monitor how quickly blood clots. My results came back slightly abnormal, but the doctor just told me to keep an eye on it and come back in a few weeks for another test. He didn’t really explain much about why my blood clotting might be off or how to improve it naturally. Now, I’m wondering—what exactly does the PT INR test measure, and what does it mean if my levels are too high or too low? Could diet, stress, or lifestyle be affecting my blood clotting? I don’t take blood thinners, so I don’t understand why my results were off. I do drink a lot of herbal teas—could that be thinning my blood too much? I started looking into Ayurveda because I want to fix this imbalance naturally instead of just waiting for the next PT INR test. Are there Ayurvedic remedies that support healthy blood clotting? I read that certain foods like turmeric can act as natural blood thinners—should I be avoiding them if my clotting time is already too long? Also, does Ayurveda recommend specific herbs or dietary changes for people with blood clotting issues? I’ve heard that Pitta imbalances can sometimes lead to excessive bleeding—could this be related to my condition? If anyone has experience with improving their PT INR test results naturally, I’d love to hear what worked. Are there specific foods, herbs, or lifestyle changes that can help regulate blood clotting naturally?
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
The PT (Prothrombin Time) and INR (International Normalized Ratio) test measures how quickly your blood clots. A prolonged PT INR means your blood is taking longer to clot, which can lead to excessive bruising, nosebleeds, and gum bleeding. This could be due to nutritional deficiencies (like low vitamin K), liver issues, stress, or even certain herbal teas that have blood-thinning properties. Since you’re not taking blood thinners, it’s possible that something in your diet or lifestyle is affecting your clotting ability. Herbal teas like ginger, turmeric, and ginkgo biloba are natural anticoagulants and could be contributing to this issue.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, excessive bleeding or slow clotting is often linked to a Pitta imbalance, as Pitta governs blood and heat in the body. When aggravated, it can lead to increased rakta dhatu (blood tissue) sensitivity and excessive heat, which weakens clotting. Ayurveda suggests balancing Pitta with cooling and blood-nourishing foods like amla (Indian gooseberry), pomegranate, coconut water, and aloe vera juice. Avoid spicy, fermented, and excessively sour foods, as they can worsen Pitta and increase bleeding tendencies.
To support healthy blood clotting naturally, include foods rich in vitamin K, such as leafy greens (but in moderation), sesame seeds, and drumstick leaves (Moringa). Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Daruharidra help strengthen blood vessels and support clotting function. A decoction of Arjuna bark is traditionally used to maintain healthy circulation and prevent excessive bleeding. Since digestion plays a key role in nutrient absorption, ensuring strong Agni (digestive fire) with mild spices like cumin and fennel can also help. If your PT INR remains high, it’s essential to monitor your condition closely with a doctor while incorporating Ayurvedic support.
In Ayurveda, blood clotting imbalances can be linked to a disturbance in the Pitta dosha, which governs heat, inflammation, and fluid balance in the body. If you have excessive bleeding or bruising, it may indicate an excess of Pitta or a weakness in the body’s ability to regulate blood flow. To support healthy clotting, Ayurveda recommends cooling, strengthening, and nourishing the body. Foods like ghee, sesame seeds, and cooked root vegetables can help build the blood and improve circulation. Herbs such as Ashwagandha and Shatavari may help strengthen the body and regulate Pitta, while avoiding foods that aggravate Pitta (like spicy or sour foods) could be beneficial. As for turmeric, while it is known to support circulation, it also has blood-thinning properties, so it may be best to limit its use if your clotting time is already prolonged. If you drink a lot of herbal teas, certain herbs like ginger, garlic, or cinnamon could also thin the blood, so moderation is key. Consider also incorporating relaxation techniques to manage stress, which can impact your blood health. Always consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for a personalized approach and further guidance.
Thank you for sharing your concerns. The PT INR (Prothrombin Time International Normalized Ratio) test measures the time it takes for your blood to clot. A higher INR indicates a longer time to clot, which can increase the risk of bleeding, while a lower INR suggests a faster clotting ability. Since your INR was slightly abnormal, it is essential to monitor this, especially since you’ve experienced unusual bruising and bleeding.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, the symptoms you’ve described could reflect an imbalance, particularly in the Pitta dosha, which governs heat and metabolism in the body. Pitta imbalances may lead to excess heat, resulting in inflammation and increased bleeding tendencies.
Here are some personalized recommendations to support healthy blood clotting and address potential Pitta imbalance:
1. Dietary Adjustments: - Avoid Excessive Pitta-Provoking Foods: Limit spicy, sour, and acidic foods, which can aggravate Pitta. This includes hot chili peppers, vinegar, and excessive citrus. - Incorporate Cooling Foods: Favor sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes. Focus on foods like cucumbers, spinach, pears, and sweet fruits. - Healthy Fats: Include ghee (clarified butter) and olive oil, which help nourish and stabilize. - Hydration: Ensure proper hydration, especially if you’re consuming herbal teas; some may affect your blood clotting.
2. Herbal Support: - Triphala: Known for its detoxifying properties, Triphala can help in maintaining overall health without thinning the blood. - Brahmi: A calming herb that may help manage Pitta imbalances and promote overall health. - Ginger: Use fresh ginger in moderation; while it has benefits, excessive amounts may thin the blood.
3. Lifestyle Practices: - Stress Management: Engage in soothing practices like meditation, gentle yoga, or deep breathing exercises to calm Pitta. - Regular Eating Schedule: Maintain a balanced meal schedule to ensure proper digestion and nourishment.
4. Avoid: - Turmeric: While it’s an excellent anti-inflammatory, if you’re concerned about clotting, limit high doses of turmeric until you stabilize.
Make sure to regularly communicate with your healthcare provider while implementing these changes. Creating a balance of lifestyle, diet, and herbs tailored to your unique constitution can support your overall health. Always listen to your body and seek professional guidance if symptoms persist.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.